Sewage leak, do not swim in Freshwater Creek

Cairns Regional Council advises that a sewage spill occurred downstream of Freshwater Christian College yesterday evening.

The leak is located approximately 200 metres further downstream from where a previous leak occurred on 12 April.

Wastewater response crews have installed warning signs at locations downstream, including Ryan Weare Park and at the Lower Freshwater Road crossing.

As a precaution, residents are advised not to swim or fish in Freshwater Creek downstream of Freshwater Christian College until further notice.

Members of the public are advised to keep clear of raw sewage or areas that may have come into contact with raw sewage.

Do not take fish, shellfish or other items from waterways in the affected area and do not enter these waterways.

Contact with sewage or contaminated waterways can cause serious health problems.

Please observe warning signs and public notices and follow any directions provided by Council or State Government officers.

Council will take samples to monitor contamination levels and will provide a further update when the public health risk has passed.