Testing found Merry Beach was not impacted by the alleged sewage leak. Photo: Facebook.
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has fined the Merry Beach Holiday and Caravan Park operator $30,000 after more than 180,000 litres of raw sewage allegedly leaked into a nearby creek.
INA Operations Pty Limited (INA) is licensed to operate a sewage treatment plant at its Kioloa park. An EPA investigation found a leak in the park’s underground sewerage system in January caused raw sewage to seep into the environment on and around the site, including a creek that flows directly into Merry Beach.
Operations director Adam Gilligan said the leak contaminated the creek with elevated levels of ammonia, E. coli, enterococci, faecal coliforms, copper, and zinc.
“This occurred during peak tourist season – when many families come to enjoy Merry Beach and its beautiful surrounds – posing an unacceptable risk to the community,” Mr Gilligan said.
“The park’s operator notified us as soon as it became aware of the leak; however, the incident had already been occurring for around 10 days.”
Testing confirmed the waters at Merry Beach were not contaminated.
INA has previously received a formal warning and official caution from the NSW EPA relating to other water pollution incidents at the site.
The operator was directed at the time to install ”No swimming” signage at creek access points until the water levels returned to normal.
Also, soil and waters impacted by the spill have since been fully cleaned up by the company.
Mr Gilligan said INA had been cooperative and committed to adding safeguards to prevent future incidents.
“[However] it’s critical that all licensees continue to meet their environmental responsibilities to safeguard the community and environment from harm,” he said.
