ACT Health has released revised guidelines for management
of lake use in relation to blue-green algae. The management strategy can be found
here, and the release letter summarising the changes is
here.

My reading of these revised guidelines is that where previously mandatory lake
closures for all users were put in place in extreme conditions (above 125,000
cells/ml) with ‘lake closed’ signs,  the NCA will now advise the public that
contact with water, or part thereof, poses an increased risk for secondary contact
users following advice from ACT Health. The risks associated with secondary contact
use at this alert level may be reduced provided that:

• users are experienced
• users understand the algae risk and what to do if contact occurs
• users do not engage in primary contact
• and showers with suitable water are available.

This looks as though the impact on our sport will be significantly less than
last season, even if we get similarly high blue green algae readings. I commend ACT
Health for listening to the various lake users and modifying its guidelines.
 
On behalf of the Assocaition I wish all our rowers, officials and volunteers a
happy and safe Christmas and New Year.