Mackay Airport

31 July 2019 - Shellgrit Creek, Mackay   

Airservices Australia has advised PFAS has been detected in the water and fish in Shellgrit Creek, next to Mackay Airport.

The test results showed elevated levels of the chemical and consequently, possible health risks for people who eat the fish over a long period of time. There is no health risk for people who have infrequently eaten fish from this creek.

Based on the Airservices Australia PFAS testing results, Queensland Health has issued a pollution notice and advises people not to eat fish caught in Shellgrit Creek next to the Mackay Airport.

The testing also showed that groundwater and surface water inside the airport had PFAS levels above national recreational use guideline values at some locations, while the PFAS levels in surface water at Shellgrit Creek are below the guidelines.

No drinking water is sourced from these waterways and Mackay town water remains safe.

The testing is part of an investigation by Airservices Australia who has advised that further investigations will be carried out near the airport to verify the extent of contamination and any potential human health or ecological risks from its operations.

Airservices Australia’s investigation is expected to determine the source and extent of any contamination, and to advise the public of the outcome in a timely manner.

Air Services Australia and Mackay Airport have been directed to erect suitable signs on the creek advising the public not consume fish from the creek.

Anyone concerned about their health should talk to their 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.

Further information on PFAS is available.