Published on Monday, 2 December 2019 at 3:25:02 PM
Further laboratory testing of the amoeba detected in the Gratwick Aquatic facility last week has identified that it is not Naegleria fowleri, as determined in the initial laboratory tests.
Hon. Commissioner Fred Riebeling said the decision to close GAC on Thursday, 28 November was due to the safety of our community being the Town’s priority.
“The Department of Health has confirmed the original detection was a false positive reading which should alleviate any concerns that people who swam at the facility might have for their health.
“I stand by our decision to close the facility last Thursday, due to the information provided to the Town at the time necessitating us to protect the public from any potential further exposure.
“I’d like to apologise to the community for the fear, concern and inconvenience this situation might have caused residents; however, the safety and wellbeing of the community is our priority.
“We will continue to super-chlorinate the facility, run further testing, and update the community in due course once we receive clear water testing results and a date for reopening has been confirmed.”
For media information
Laura Hawes, Manager Marketing Events and Communications
(08) 9158 9365
lhawes@porthedland.wa.gov.au
Back to All News