Port Phillip Bay Marine
Algal Bloom Response
Protocol
1
Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol
Definitions
The following definitions apply to this protocol.
Algal bloom: elevated concentration of marine microalgae (phytoplankton) that creates a visible
discoloration of the water, and/or adversely affects other components of the ecosystem.
Aquaculture: the farming of aquatic organisms such as fish and shellfish for food.
Chlorophyll-a: a pigment common to all plants, including marine microalgae. Measurement of
chlorophyll-a, either directly or through fluorescence is often used as an indicator of microalgal
biomass.
Diatom: a group of common marine microalgal species.
Dinoflagellate: a group of marine microalgal species that includes some toxin-producing species.
Noctiluca: a common, non-toxic dinoflagellate in Port Phillip Bay, responsible for red and pink
coloured blooms (full name Noctiluca scintilans). The species is bio-luminescent, producing a
greenish-blue light visible at night.
Phytoplankton: another name for marine microalgae. Single celled marine plants, generally
microscopic in size.
Pollution: the introduction of substances into water, land or the atmosphere, so that the condition is
adversely altered to be: detrimental to its use, or harmful to the health or welfare of humans, plants
or animals (EPA Victoria).
Published by the Victorian Government Department of Environment and Primary Industries. Melbourne,
May 2013
© The State of Victoria Department of Environment and Primary Industries 2013
This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the
provisions of the Copyright Act 1968.
Authorised by the Victorian Government, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne.
ISBN 978-1-74287-868-3
For more information contact the DEPI Customer Service Centre 136 186.
Disclaimer
This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee
that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and
therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on
any information in this publication.
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Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol
Contents
Disclaimer ............................................................................................................................................... ii
1. Overview ............................................................................................................................................. 4
1.1 Purpose ......................................................................................................................................... 5
2. Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol .................................................................... 5
2.1 Principles and objectives............................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Scale of the response .................................................................................................................... 6
3. Roles and responsibilities.................................................................................................................... 6
3.1 Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) ........................................................ 6
3.2 Environment Protection Authority (EPA) ...................................................................................... 7
3.3 Department of Health (DH)........................................................................................................... 8
3.4 Other stakeholder agencies/organisations ................................................................................... 8
4. Marine Algal Bloom Response Group ................................................................................................. 9
5. Links with other response plans or protocols ..................................................................................... 9
6. Notification and Response ................................................................................................................ 10
6.1 Notification of a marine algal bloom .......................................................................................... 10
6.2 First response and handover ...................................................................................................... 10
6. 3 Field inspection and sample analysis ......................................................................................... 10
6.4 Communications ......................................................................................................................... 11
6.5 Monitoring .................................................................................................................................. 12
6.6 Toxin-producing species ............................................................................................................. 13
6.7 Escalation and de-escalation of the response ............................................................................ 13
7. Sources of information ..................................................................................................................... 14
8. Further information .......................................................................................................................... 14
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Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol
1. Overview
This protocol provides information on the Victorian Government agency response to marine algal
blooms1 in near shore areas of Port Phillip Bay.
In general, algal blooms that cause harm to people through recreational contact are not
known in Port Phillip Bay, although minor reactions such as skin irritation are known. This
protocol sets out management responses based on minimal risk of harm from marine algal
blooms for recreational use in Port Phillip Bay. The protocol provides for escalation of the
response in the rare event that a bloom of a species that could cause harm through
recreational contact is discovered in the bay.
A large marine algal bloom close to shore may generate a high level of community interest
and queries about its occurrence, the causes and implications.
In these situations, the most appropriate response is to provide up to date advice to the
community, including advice about use of the bay whilst the bloom runs its course. The
communication will typically focus on advice to the community to avoid swimming or other
primary contact recreation in areas affected by the bloom or potential bloom.
Communication may also involve providing advice to the community to avoid recreational
fishing, including the collection of shellfish, in waters that are discoloured or murky, during
the course of the algal bloom. The commercial fisheries and shellfish industries in Port Phillip
Bay use their own comprehensive testing and adhere to stringent food safety guidelines.
Marine microalgae (or phytoplankton) occur naturally and are present year-round in all marine
waters including Port Phillip Bay. Occasionally, under certain conditions, the numbers of algal cells
may increase rapidly, creating an algal bloom. Algal blooms may have the appearance of discoloured
water, sludgy material or a “slick” floating on the water. Occasionally (rarely) blooms may include
one or more potential toxin-producing species. These can cause harm through the consumption of
seafood (particularly shellfish) that has been exposed to the bloom. The shellfish aquaculture
(mussel farming) industry in Port Phillip Bay has a comprehensive algal testing regime for
commercial product. (Note also that the taking of shellfish from the intertidal zone in Port Phillip Bay
is prohibited). Algal blooms may also cause localized depletion of oxygen in seawater.
Marine algal blooms may occur year round in Port Phillip Bay, but are more common in summer, as
warm, sunny, calm weather is favourable to their development. Algal blooms generally occur in the
days or weeks after heavy rain, which can carry an increased nutrient load into the Bay. Algal blooms
in Port Phillip Bay generally last for up to 10 days, after which time they break down naturally.
Visible algal blooms may not be reported every year, and records show that several years may
elapse between significant algal bloom reports.
Marine algal blooms occur naturally. They are known to occur in pristine areas far from human
influence. The frequency of algal blooms can be greater in areas affected by elevated nutrient inputs,
particularly from agricultural and urban runoff. In comparison with other heavily populated areas
1
Freshwater algal blooms (such as blue-green algal blooms) are not covered by this plan. For information on
blue-green algal blooms see the Victorian blue-green algae circular.
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Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol
where algal blooms are problematic, the occurrence, size and duration of algal blooms in Port Phillip
Bay are relatively low.
Most observers are unlikely to identify an algal bloom as such, and are more likely to report an oil
spill or other pollution event.
The primary response to marine algal blooms will be a timely response that provides accurate
information about the nature of the algal bloom and advice about recreational use of the bay.
1.1 Purpose
The purpose of this protocol is to facilitate a timely and effective response to suspected marine algal
blooms in Port Phillip Bay that will:
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identify blooms and provide clear advice to waterway users on what is occurring
identify which agency is responsible to lead and coordinate any response
provide advice for recreational water use and the actions people should take to manage any
potential risks to their personal wellbeing.
This protocol has been designed to apply to algal blooms in Port Phillip Bay only. It is not intended
that a commensurate level of response is warranted in all Victorian marine waters. Beach users
should always be aware of potential water quality issues and as a general rule avoid swimming in
murky or discoloured water.
Where an algal bloom occurs outside Port Phillip Bay and the circumstances are commensurate with
an algal bloom event inside Port Phillip Bay, for example local areas of very high beach use during
public holidays, resource managers may wish to consider whether a similar response is adopted. In
these cases this protocol may assist in managing a response.
2. Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol
2.1 Principles and objectives
This protocol is broadly based on emergency management principles described in the Emergency
Management Manual Victoria (EMMV) in terms of response and recovery, as marine algal blooms in
Port Phillip Bay are naturally occurring events that require response in the form of information and
advice that enables the community to make informed decisions about the use of the bay, so that the
risks of any harm are minimised.
An underlying principle of this protocol is that management of responses to marine algal bloom
events in Port Phillip Bay should be undertaken through cooperation between all relevant agencies
contributing and completing their individual responsibilities and functions. The Department of
Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) will lead and coordinate any response. Other agencies
are expected to provide support as requested.
Marine algal bloom events are not generally classified as an emergency, however, the emergency
management methodology provides a basis for response during an event.
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Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol
The objectives of this protocol are to provide:
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a coordinated and seamless government agency response to marine algal blooms in the Bay
effective and timely communication of advice to waterway users
effective initial response and investigation (where required) to establish the presence and
species of algae responsible
effective communication with the broader community
where appropriate, timely and effective briefings and advice to relevant Victorian minister(s).
To assist with achieving these objectives, this protocol sets out:
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agreed roles and responsibilities of the different agencies that could be involved in a
response
the actions that will be undertaken in response to a marine algal bloom
a decision framework for managing situations where a marine algal bloom may be present,
but is unconfirmed
relevant information and links to resources.
This protocol applies to the marine waters of Port Phillip Bay, including the lower Yarra River below
Bolte Bridge. Above the Bolte Bridge, Melbourne Water is responsible for any algal bloom response2.
2.2 Scale of the response
The scale of the response should be proportionate to the scale of the algal bloom and its effects.
In most cases it is anticipated that the response will require the involvement of one or two staff from
DEPI and the Environment Protection Authority (EPA), with the primary response focussing on
confirming the presence/absence of a bloom and provision of community information. No action to
treat a bloom is anticipated.
For larger or more persistent marine algal blooms, or blooms that affect a variety of stakeholder
groups, the response may require more resources. In rare cases, the response may need to be
escalated (Section 6.5).
3. Roles and responsibilities
3.1 Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI)
The Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) is the lead agency and is responsible
for coordinating any response to marine algal blooms in Port Phillip Bay. Three areas of DEPI play a
role in this response: Port Phillip Region, Fisheries Victoria and Environment Policy Division. In the
event of a marine algal bloom the Regional Director, Port Phillip Region, DEPI (or his/her delegate)
will assume the role of the Response Coordinator. The Response Coordinator will oversee and direct
actions required to manage an algal bloom. In addition, the roles of the DEPI are listed below:
2
Melbourne Water is identified as the regional coordinator for blue green algal blooms in waterways of the
Port Phillip region, including the Yarra River.
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Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol
3.1.1 Port Phillip Regional Services
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determine (and periodically re-evaluate) the scale of the response required and coordinate
resources accordingly
establish and lead a marine algal bloom response group if required (see Section 4)
coordinate the actions of the marine algal bloom response group
provide an experienced communications person to take the role of Marine Algal Bloom
Communications Officer, to manage all media and inter-agency communications
keep stakeholder agencies up to date in the event of a marine algal bloom
produce and disseminate advisory material about marine algal blooms for the community;
produce a map showing the location of the algal bloom
seek (and source) technical advice and information
liaise with Department of Health (DH) where required (for example, if health risks due to
marine toxins are detected)
determine and implement an appropriate sampling and testing regime, if required, to help
manage the response in consultation with the response group
advise the relevant minister(s), where required
3.1.2 Environment Policy Division
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participate as a member of Response Groups as required
review and update this document periodically as required, in consultation with DEPI,
Regional Services and other stakeholder agencies.
3.1.3 Fisheries Victoria
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participate as a member of response groups as required
facilitate contact with aquaculture farmers and fishing stakeholders, if required
provide advice on fishery and aquaculture issues with respect to marine algal blooms
provide technical advice on seafood safety to Response Groups, with respect to marine algal
blooms
along with other stakeholder agencies, assist with field inspections and/or sample collection
as required
provide advice to the Minister Agriculture and Food Security, where required.
3.2 Environment Protection Authority (EPA)
The EPA is responsible for investigating pollution incidents in Port Phillip Bay3. Given the similarity in
appearance of marine algal blooms and pollution incidents, EPA is likely to receive early notification
of an algal bloom. In the event of an algal bloom, EPA will:
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notify DEPI of possible marine algal blooms reported via the Pollution Hotline, or other
sources
3
Department of Transport (with Port of Melbourne Corporation) are the incident controller for marine
pollution emergencies in Port Phillip Bay.
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Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol
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issue any standard communication messages (including via Beach Report) pending
investigation/confirmation of whether the event is a marine algal bloom or a pollution
incident
provide standard communication messages at the request of the Response Coordinator
through relevant information channels (including via Beach Report)
provide an initial shore-based assessment and response when it is unclear whether a report
is pollution or a marine algal bloom
participate as a member of the Response Group as required
provide technical advice on marine algal blooms and Port Philip Bay water quality; and
along with other stakeholder agencies, assist with field inspections and/or sample collection
as required.4
3.3 Department of Health (DH)
The Department of Health (DH) provides advice about the potential public health effects of algal
blooms. In the event of an algal bloom, DH will:
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participate as a member of Response Groups as required
provide advice on public health issues with respect to marine algal blooms
provide advice on seafood safety, with respect to marine algal blooms, to PrimeSafe
(regulators of commercial seafood safety)
provide advice to the Minister for Health, where required.
3.4 Other stakeholder agencies/organisations
Other stakeholder agencies include Parks Victoria, Melbourne Water, Port of Melbourne
Corporation, Victorian Regional Channels Authority, and Bayside municipal councils. In the event of
an algal bloom, stakeholder agency representatives will:
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be advised of the occurrence of marine algal bloom by DEPI
forward reports of relevant pollution events or possible marine algal blooms and other
relevant information to EPA via the Pollution Hotline
along with other stakeholder agencies, assist with field inspections and/or sample collection
as requested by DEPI
participate as members of Response Groups as required, for example if they have particular
expertise, or if their particular stakeholder groups are affected
act as a single conduit for information into and out of their organization.
Stakeholder agencies will be advised if an algal bloom is identified in Port Phillip Bay and they may
be called upon to assist with the response under particular circumstances, for example, if their own
stakeholder groups are likely to be affected by a bloom or by the response to a bloom. Life Saving
Victoria is an important stakeholder organisation and can provide an important role in providing
information to beach users at patrolled beached.
4
DSE may request stakeholder agencies (e.g. EPA, PV, local government) to assist with field inspection and/or
sample collection where that agency is best placed to do so. Stakeholder agencies are expected to give
consideration to such requests and assist where practical.
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Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol
4. Marine Algal Bloom Response Group
In the event of a marine algal bloom, DEPI will establish a response group. The role of a response
group, under direction of the Response Coordinator, is to oversee any actions required to manage
the algal bloom, including to monitor the potential effects it may have on the community and
relevant commercial fisheries. The membership of a Response Group will be determined in
accordance with need, and may be expanded during the course of the response, as required.
As a minimum, a response group will include the Response Coordinator (DEPI), a Communications
Officer (DEPI) and a representative of EPA as a key stakeholder agency. The Department of Health
may be asked to advise on human health issues. Other stakeholder agencies may be asked to
participate in accordance with their roles and responsibilities, as outlined above.
Position
Response Coordinator
Agency
DEPI
Communications
officer
Stakeholder agency
DEPI
Stakeholder agency
DH
Stakeholder agency
PV, Local
Council, MW,
PoMC
EPA
Role
 Coordinates the actions of the response group.
 Acts as media spokesperson if required.
 Manages all internal and external
communications.
 Acts as a source of expert advice and information
on Bay water quality.
 Acts as a source of expert advice on human health
issues.
 Provides information and advice on relevant
matters and provide support relevant to agency
jurisdiction.
 May be requested to assist with sampling, field
inspection or communication.
 May be requested to assist in engagement with
key community groups and culturally and
linguistically diverse stakeholders.
5. Links with other response plans or protocols
EPA receives and investigates pollution reports in Port Phillip Bay. Given the similarity in appearance
of marine algal blooms and pollution incidents, EPA will often provide the first response to an
incident, that is receive a report and conduct a shore based investigation if needed. If the cause is
determined to be an algal bloom, DEPI will coordinate the response.
EPA is responsible for incident management of fish deaths under the whole-of-government
Waterway (Fish Death) Response Guideline (2006). Fish deaths are sometimes associated with algal
blooms, either as a consequence of a bloom (due to depletion of oxygen) or due to a common causal
factor (such as freshwater inputs after heavy rainfall).
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Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol
6. Notification and Response
6.1 Notification of a marine algal bloom
Notification of a potential marine algal bloom may come from a variety of sources, including:
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the EPA Pollution Hotline (1300 372 842)
the DEPI customer service phone line
bayside municipal councils
the Parks Victoria Information Centre (131 963)
Parks Victoria staff
independent labs conducting routine water quality monitoring
the Shipping Management Centre
aquaculture farmers
media enquiry via an agency media unit
media report
social media
a combination of the above.
To ensure a consistent and coordinated response, agencies that receive reports potentially
indicating an algal bloom should forward relevant information and contact details from the reporter
to EPA’s Pollution Hotline (1300 372 842). EPA will log the information and, if an algal bloom cannot
be ruled out, will determine an appropriate course of action. EPA will also notify DEPI of a potential
algal bloom at this point.
6.2 First response and handover
EPA will lead the response until such time that it determines that it is no longer investigating or
responding to a potential pollution matter and that there is likely to be an algal bloom occurring. At
this point EPA will hand over leadership and coordination of the response to DEPI. EPA may still be
needed to assist with sampling and advice at the request of DEPI.
In some circumstances, EPA may form such a view based on the pollution report alone and transition
the response to DEPI on that basis. This would typically be in response to an agency report or other
highly credible report.
6. 3 Field inspection and sample analysis
When responding to pollution or an algal bloom report, EPA may conduct a field inspection. A field
inspection may involve the collection of water samples from the suspected area. If and when an
algal bloom is located, the area may be photographed and any discoloured water samples taken.
Unless a pollution event can be confirmed5 based on the field inspection, EPA will:
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make field observations and collect and forward water samples for analysis following the
procedure in Appendix 2 (even if the water at the reported location appears to be clear)
take photographs of the incident
5
If pollution is confirmed, EPA will follow internal procedures. The Department of Transport or the Port of
Melbourne Corporation will usually assume the role of Incident Controller for marine pollution incidents.
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Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol
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notify the DEPI Response Coordinator that a possible algal bloom is under investigation and
that samples have been collected.
An accurate initial assessment should prevent wasted effort, an incorrect response and unnecessary
delays. For these reasons, if there is any doubt about the cause of an incident, a water sample
should be taken for analysis at the earliest opportunity.
If laboratory results confirm an algal bloom, DEPI will manage the response. DEPI may also assume
responsibility where a bloom is highly likely and EPA are no longer investigating with a view to
pollution.
In some cases an algal bloom could be reasonably assumed without a field inspection. This would
include, for example, cases where similar, recent reports from the same location had been
confirmed by a field inspection to be an algal bloom. In this case EPA would notify DEPI’s Response
Coordinator. DEPI will be responsible for the response from that point. DEPI should arrange for a
field inspection and collection of a water sample, although this may involve a request for assistance
from EPA or other agencies.
EPA will continue to provide scientific advice following handover of coordination of an algal bloom
response to DEPI.
6.4 Communications
The lead agency is responsible for leading and coordinating communications and may seek
assistance from other agencies for example, use of Beach Report.
DEPI is responsible for all communications regarding algal blooms, except where EPA is the lead
agency (i.e. while the nature of the event is yet to be determined or where both pollution and an
algal bloom are present).
In the event that a media response is required and the nature of the event remains undetermined
(i.e. prior to DEPI taking over responsibility for the response), EPA will lead the response. The
response should indicate that the event is currently under investigation. EPA may consider releasing
an initial alert (e.g. via Beach Report and/or DEPI website) that a report has been received, and that
EPA is investigating, based on the strength of the report.
Timely and efficient communication with the public and stakeholder agencies will be the primary
management tool available to DEPI in the event of a marine algal bloom. The appropriate response
will usually be to provide the community with information and advice, through appropriate
communication channels such as media releases, DEPI and other agency web sites, EPA’s Beach
Report web site and the “one stop shop” Port Phillip Bay web site.
The Communications Officer, who will be appointed by the Response Coordinator and in most cases
will be the Port Phillip Regional Communications Adviser, will be responsible for managing this.
The Response Coordinator, in consultation with the Communications Officer and the rest of the
Response Group, will determine whether a media release is warranted based on factors such as:
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the size of the bloom
the number and frequency of reports being received
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Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol
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information gathered from any site inspection and sample results
media interest in the bloom.
The Response Coordinator will authorize all media releases and will identify the media spokesperson
for the event.
Media Q & A’s and a media release should contain generic messages that should be adapted to suit
the circumstances. Any messages regarding human health should be approved by DH.
Inter-agency communications will be essential in ensuring a coordinated response. Providing
stakeholder agencies with regular updates on the status of the bloom and the response will be a key
role of the Communications Officer. Key internal communication messages should:
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include relevant information about the event
say who is coordinating the response (DEPI Response Coordinator)
describe the elements of the response and links to any public notices or media releases
direct all media enquiries to the Communications Officer
ask agencies to forward all reports from members of the public to EPA pollution watch
hotline
provide contact information for DEPI Response Coordinator and Communications Officer.
The Regional Director, Port Phillip Region, or his or her delegate, will be responsible for liaising with
the Minister for Environment and Climate Change’s Office once DEPI has taken over leadership and
coordination of an algal bloom event.
The Communications Officer will be responsible for liaising with the DEPI media team as soon as an
algal bloom has been confirmed, so that they can notify the Minister for Environment and Climate
Change’s Media Adviser in a timely manner.
The Communications Officer will also ensure that a notice and a link to any media release will be
placed on relevant web sites, and that these links are updated as required.
The Response Coordinator will ensure a map is produced showing the location of the algal bloom
within Port Phillip to be made available for use by the Communications Officer for communications
purposes and to inform the Minister’s Office.
6.5 Monitoring
Once appropriate advice to the community has been released, monitoring of the algal bloom may
consist of:
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monitoring of reports of the bloom received by EPA and other agencies
further field inspections , water sampling and laboratory tests (if required)
monitoring of media coverage (including social media).
In most instances, it is expected that an algal bloom will disperse naturally through the action of
waves and currents within a period of several days to a few weeks. If a bloom is persisting or
recurring in different areas, updated advice may need to be released. The Response Coordinator will
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Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol
determine the need for further inspections and/or sampling, and will seek assistance as required
from other agencies, particularly where such agencies are well located to undertake inspections.
Given that marine algal blooms are a natural part of the marine environment and will occur from
time to time, specific sampling to confirm blooms off-shore (that is those that have not reached the
shoreline) would generally only be undertaken in exceptional circumstances. DEPI and EPA will
monitor reports of offshore algal blooms or other water quality events available from other bay
users and from other scheduled monitoring, to assist in preparing for such an event affecting
recreational uses.
6.6 Toxin-producing species
Although there are several species of marine algae known in Port Phillip Bay that have the potential
to produce toxins, these have no known effects through recreational swimming contact. To cause
harm to humans, the algae including species such as Alexandrium catenella, must first be
concentrated by filter feeding shellfish (e.g. mussels), which are then eaten. Shellfish grown
commercially in Port Phillip Bay are subject to rigorous testing to assure their quality for sale.
The National Health and Medical Research Council Guidelines for Recreational Water Quality identify
two species with the potential to cause harm via recreational swimming contact, neither of which
have been found in Port Phillip Bay. These species are Karenia brevis and Pfiesteria piscicida. The
procedures and general advice for managing issues arising from recreational contact with a bloom
containing any of the existing potential toxin-producing species would be those outlined in this
protocol. In the event that one of the two known recreationally harmful species is discovered in the
Bay, a decision may be taken to escalate the response (section 6.7).
6.7 Escalation and de-escalation of the response
Although considered unlikely, there may be circumstances in which an algal bloom response needs
to be elevated beyond the steps outlined above. Generally this would be associated with increasing
impacts on recreational uses and the environment, or an event of a nature, duration or extent that
indicates a significant change in the functioning of the bay (based on expert advice).
Such circumstances could include:
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an increase in the extent of a visible marine algal bloom to cover a very large area or a
marine algal bloom that is persisting or recurring for several weeks, with possible broader
social and economic impacts
bloom(s) that are resulting in oxygen depletion events and significant fish deaths;
large bloom of a toxin-producing species
high levels of public concern about a marine algal bloom
credible reports of injury or illness as a result of contact with a marine algal bloom.
DEPI will work closely with local land managers to determine the elements of any escalated response,
such as:
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more detailed investigation into the nature and underlying causes of persistent algal blooms
release of health advisory material, if necessary (to be developed in collaboration with DH)
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Port Phillip Bay Marine Algal Bloom Response Protocol
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signs on affected beaches to be considered in consultation with local council or land
manager (note that beach signage is unlikely to be necessary for most marine algal bloom
events).
The Response Coordinator will manage the de-escalation of the event or ‘close out’ of the response.
Typically this will occur when the algal bloom dissipates or moves offshore such that it is no longer
likely to impact on recreational uses. Typically this will include communication, for example media
release and/or use of Beach Report, to this effect.
7. Sources of information
A number of monitoring programs monitor marine phytoplankton and water quality in Port Phillip
Bay. This information is not always available at the time of the bloom, therefore it may be best used
to understand the context in which an algal bloom has occurred (such as events leading up to a
reported algal bloom). Data sources include:
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Victorian Shellfish Operations Manual – an industry-run program to detect potential shellfish
contaminants (including marine algae); information is available 24 hours after fortnightly
sample from five sites across Port Phillip Bay and one in Western Port. Information may be
made available by negotiation with industry representatives or through DPI.
EPA/IMOS “Ships of Opportunity” program – daily water quality transects, including
Chlorophyll-a, along Port Phillip Bay shipping channels
DEPI Nutrient Cycling Monitoring Program – twice-yearly monitoring of nutrient cycling
efficiency at two sites, and continuous monitoring of water quality at three sites
EPA fixed sites monthly environmental water quality testing
8. Further information
For further information about possible algal blooms in Port Phillip Bay:
Reporting pollution or algal blooms:
www.epa.vic.gov.au/get-involved/report-pollution
1300 372 842
Port Phillip Bay algal blooms:
www.DEPI.vic.gov.au
Blue-Green algal blooms:
www.water.vic.gov.au/environment/algae
Beach Report (summer season only)
www.epa.vic.gov.au/beachreport
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