In its ongoing commitment to safeguarding the well-being of the community, Latrobe Council’s Environmental Health Officer has been undertaking regular water quality testing throughout Summer at various high-use areas throughout the Latrobe Council area.
This weekly testing ensures that water quality remains within safe recreational limits.
Regrettably, recent laboratory results have indicated an elevated level of E. coli at Freers Beach, Shearwater, surpassing the acceptable threshold.
As a precautionary measure and in the interest of public safety, Latrobe Council has taken the decisive step to temporarily close the affected section of Freers Beach. The closure extends from Rice Street, Port Sorell north to North Freers Beach at the Port Sorell Surf Life Saving Club.
Mayor Peter Freshney stated, "The health and safety of our community are of paramount importance. In response to the elevated enterococci levels at Freers Beach, we have taken the proactive measure of closing the affected section to protect the public. We are committed to conducting further sampling today, and an update on the situation will be provided this Friday."
Signage indicating the beach closure has been prominently installed, and the Council urges beachgoers to adhere to the posted instructions. The temporary closure specifically applies to the aforementioned stretch of Freers Beach and does not impact Hawley Beach or Freers Beach south of Rice Street through to the Panatana Family Park.
The Council acknowledges the inconvenience this may cause and appreciates the cooperation and understanding of the community during this temporary closure. The health and safety of residents and visitors remain the top priority, and Latrobe Council is working diligently to address the issue promptly.