Redland City Council and Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) have today conducted a marine net drag at Wellington Point to check for stingers at the popular swimming spot following recent reports of Morbakka Jellyfish.
Redland City Council General Manager Organisational Services Nick Clarke said the net drag did not find any marine stingers.
“While there were no marine stingers found in the net drag, everyone still needs to be mindful that marine stingers are a natural part of living in coastal Queensland so I would encourage everyone to understand the risks and not be complacent,” he said.
“There have already been two recent reports of people stung at Wellington Point and obviously the potential remains across all coastal areas of the city.
“Following advice from SLSQ, Council re-opened the Wellington Point swimming areas yesterday.
“SLSQ has also generously agreed to provide Surf Life Saving ‘Ambassadors’ at Wellington Point for the next two weeks to alert and educate visitors on marine stingers and hazards.
“Warning signs will also remain in place, along with information on Council’s website including a fact sheet on the Morbakka Jellyfish in conjunction with marine stinger expert, Dr Lisa-ann Gershwin.
SLSQ chief operating officer George Hill said, while marine stingers are a normal part of the marine ecosystem, recent weather conditions had brought an increased number to the shores of South East Queensland.
“While the swimming areas may have reopened, it’s still really important for people to not only be aware of their surroundings but also put their safety first at all times, particularly given the recent incidents of painful stings” Mr Hill said.
“We’d like people to be aware of the risks, seek medical advice immediately if they are stung, and ensure that children do not play with stingers that may have washed up on the shore.
“If you do go swimming, you can reduce the risk of a sting by wearing protective clothing such as a wetsuit or stinger suit and, when you enter the water, move slowly as jellyfish and other marine stingers will often swim away from people if given the time and opportunity.
“If you are in a patrolled swimming area and are stung or see a marine stinger, notify the lifesavers on duty so they can assist with first aid if necessary and ensure the safety of others in the water.”
