The Department of Health is about to begin a second round of environmental sampling in Rapid Creek and Ludmilla Creek after evidence of perflourinated chemicals (PFCs) was found in both waterways.
Preliminary surface water sampling detected evidence of PFCs in both creeks earlier this year.
While the preliminary testing involved water, the next round of sampling will examine seafood and sediments.
These samples will be independently assessed by the National Research Centre for Environmental Toxicology, based at the University of Queensland.
Chief Health Officer, Dr Dinesh Arya, said he expected the sampling process in both creeks to be completed by the end of June.
He said while the testing was underway people were cautioned against eating any seafood from either creek.
Signs cautioning against eating fish or shellfish, including crabs, will be posted along the creeks.
“At this stage we see the signs as purely precautionary. Our task now is to develop an understanding of the effect these chemical compounds might have on the ecosystems of the creeks and any potential impacts on human health. Until the sampling has been completed and the results are known, it would be sensible for people to avoid eating seafood from either Rapid Creek or Ludmilla Creek,” Dr Arya said.
“As part of the next round of testing the Department of Health will liaise with Charles Darwin University to develop an appropriate aquatic monitoring system to ensure we target those seafood items that people may be wild harvesting from these waterways.
“People are also reminded that waterways in Darwin’s northern suburbs are definitely not recommended as sources of drinking water.”
Dr Arya said following the testing of Rapid Creek and Ludmilla Creek other waterways associated with Darwin Airport would also be tested.
PFCs have been used in a range of products since the 1950s, including common household items. They have also been used in certain fire-fighting foams to enhance their ability to smother fires.
Read our Perfluorinated Chemicals in the Darwin Region fact sheet
MEDIA CONTACT: Fred McCue 0401 119 792