Mackay Airport (Shellgrit Creek)
Current and ongoing advice
People are advised to not consume fish and other seafood caught from the Shellgrit Creek system, next to Mackay Airport.
See below for further information.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were detected in fish, other seafood and water from Shellgrit Creek near Mackay Airport during Airservices Australia PFAS investigations in 2019 and 2022.
As a precaution, Queensland Health recommends people do not eat fish or other seafood, such as crabs, from the Shellgrit Creek system due to possible health risks from eating them over a long period of time. There are no significant health risks for people who have infrequently eaten fish or other seafood (every few months or less) from the creek.
Levels of PFAS in surface water at Shellgrit Creek were found to be suitable for swimming and other recreational activity. No public drinking water is sourced from these waterways.
Areas of the Shellgrit Creek system covered by this advice are shown in yellow on this map of the area.
Further information
Anyone concerned about their health should see their local doctor or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84).
For further information regarding Airservices Australia’s investigations email pfascomms@airservicesaustralia.com or visit the Airservices Australia website.