The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is investigating the cause of debris balls found on North Narrabeen Beach, adding this site to their broader inquiry into recent contamination across NSW beaches.
In recent months, the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has been investigating the mysterious appearance of debris balls on various beaches across New South Wales.
The investigation began with initial reports from Dee Why Beach and expanded to nine other beaches, including Manly, Long Reef, Queenscliff, Freshwater, North and South Curl Curl, North Steyne, and North Narrabeen.
Recent Discoveries
In January 2025, debris balls were also reported on the Northern Beaches, including North Narrabeen. In December 2024, sightings were confirmed at Silver Beach in Kurnell and several South Coast beaches, such as Bombo Beach in Kiama, 1080 Beach, and Pooles Beach at Mystery Bay.
Further reports from October 2024 included Bondi, Bronte, Clovelly, Congwong, Frenchmans, Little Bay, Malabar, and Tamarama beaches.
Investigation Details
EPA Director of Operations, Adam Gilligan, stated that a team of technical experts and specialist investigators are exploring all lines of inquiry, including possible connections to previous incidents.
The investigation is considering various potential sources, such as Sydney Water’s sewerage system, stormwater systems, sea-borne sources like cruise ships, and illegal trade waste discharge.
Chemical Analysis:
- 6 November: Initial results found the balls contained mainly fatty acids, a small portion of petroleum hydrocarbons, and other materials, including human hair and various fibres.
- 2 December: Final petroleum hydrocarbon and biomarker analysis confirmed the presence of some petroleum hydrocarbons in the debris balls.
Despite extensive analysis by the EPA and the University of NSW, as well as an examination of weather patterns and ocean currents by NSW Maritime, the exact origin of the debris balls remains undetermined.
Community Sentiment
The community is advised to avoid touching any debris balls or pollution on the beaches and to report new findings to their local council or the EPA’s Environment Line at 131 555 or via email at info@epa.nsw.gov.au.
The EPA continues to provide guidance to councils on the safe management and disposal of waste on beaches and offers advice on beach closures.
The NSW EPA’s investigation into the debris balls found on North Narrabeen Beach and other NSW beaches is ongoing. The community’s cooperation in reporting new findings is crucial as experts work to identify the source and mitigate the issue.
Photo Credit: Essa Eldhose/X
Published 23-Jan-2025
