Sydney’s beaches have reopened after being closed earlier in the week due to the appearance of mysterious black tar-like balls that raised health concerns.
Eight beaches, including the famous Bondi Beach, were shut down, and a large-scale cleanup was launched as officials tested the deposits.
The New South Wales Environment Minister, Penny Sharpe, confirmed that while the source of the pollution remains unknown, the balls consist of fatty acids and chemicals commonly found in cosmetics and cleaning products, mixed with some fuel oil.
Authorities, including the New South Wales Maritime Authority and the Environment Protection Authority (EPA), have confirmed that the tar balls are not highly toxic to humans, though beachgoers are advised not to touch them.
Investigations are still ongoing to determine the origin and responsible parties. In the meantime, beachgoers are urged to report any sightings to lifeguards and to wash their hands with soap and water or baby oil if they come into contact with the substances.
At @UNSWScience we have been investigating the tar balls that washed up on Coogee and other Sydney beaches.
What do we know (and not know!) so far?
Here comes our thread! pic.twitter.com/udBtkMDMsd— Jon Beves (@JonBeves) October 18, 2024
