Ballina Shire Council say the recent floods caused by Tropical Cyclone Alfred have affected water quality in the Richmond River and nearby waterways. Until conditions improve, swimming or taking part in water activities at our beaches or in the river is not recommended. 

What is that smell?

Low oxygen levels in the river have led to fish kills in several areas, including West Ballina canals, Ballina riverbanks, Gawandii Beach and Shaws Bay. Decomposing plants and other materials in the floodwater are also causing strong odours in some locations.

What is being done?

Ballina Shire Council, Rous County Council, and OzFish are keeping a close watch on water quality. Council crews are working hard to clean up dead fish, but with such a large area affected, support from the community is also appreciated.

How people can help

If residents find dead fish in their area, they can help by disposing of them in one of two ways:

1.    Kerbside collection

• Place dead fish in a tied plastic bag and leave it on the kerb.
• Then contact Council by phone or email to let us know the location on 1300 864 444 or council@ballina.nsw.gov.au during office hours (8.15am – 4.30pm Monday to Friday). While we cannot provide exact pick-up times, Council will work to collect bags as soon as they are able.
• Council is working to roster field staff over the weekend to support this clean up. If you see Council crews collecting in your area, please let them know where your bags are placed for collection.

2.    Free drop-off at Ballina Resource Recovery Centre

• Bagged dead fish can be taken to the Ballina Resource Recovery Centre at no cost.

Ballina Shire Council continues its extensive clean-up efforts following the cyclone, including working with the community and relevant agencies to coordinate the removal of dead fish from beaches and riverbanks. 

The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is responsible for investigating the cause of fish kills in NSW, managing the immediate response, and implementing long-term strategies to prevent future occurrences. For any further enquiries regarding investigations into the cause of a fish kill, further information is available on the DPI website https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/habitat/threats/fish-kills.

Fish death incidents or observations can be reported to the Fishers Watch Phoneline on 1800 043 536.