Toxic algae threat

ANOTHER outbreak of toxic algae has closed part of the Barwon River in Geelong, the river’s manager has announced.
Corangamite Catchment Management Authority said blue-green algae had put the river off limits below Baum’s Weir to the Moorabool St Bridge.
The authority closed other sections of the river last week and warned swimmers and anglers to beware of algae in the river’s estuary at Barwon Heads.
Humans and pets should avoid contact with the water, the authority warned.
Blue-green algae can cause skin rashes, eye and ear infections, vomiting, diarrhea, mouth ulcers, a sore throat and asthma symptoms.