All areas of Normanville Creek and Bungala River and Normanville Beach have reopened to the public after a water contamination scare last week.

The areas were reopened on Friday, following a period of closure of a 200-metre section of the beach, along with the connecting creek and river.

The precautionary measures were taken after it was revealed one megalitre (one million litres) of untreated wastewater was discharged into the creek from an on-site storage tank at SA Water’s nearby Normanville Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Water tests indicated water quality has returned to normal and that the overflow was contained to the Normanville Creek, away from the Normanville Beach. Testing of water samples taken from targeted sample points has confirmed any contaminated water has since dissipated and levels have returned to normal.

SA Water’s Senior Manager of Production and Treatment Lisa Hannant says, “In parallel with the cleanup, we have carried out an initial investigation into the cause of the wastewater overflow, which has identified a fault with the electrical and automatic alarm monitoring systems, and we’ve since made improvements to both".

Mayor Glen Rowlands says he was glad to hear that the site had been given the all-clear and that the precautionary exclusion zone has been removed.

“Our community are environmentally conscientious and take pride in our clean and green environment," he says.

The incident was poor timing for the region ahead of the school holidays, however the council is keen to welcome visitors and assure them all is safe and well.

“Our beaches are amongst the best in the world, our air is clear, nature is abounding here, and we invite you to come and experience it for yourself," Mayor Rowlands says.

“Normanville Beach is a favourite for holidaymakers, but we have many hidden gems like Ingalalla Waterfalls, Myponga Reservoir, Deep Creek Conservation Park and we’re fortunately home to fabulous cafes, restaurants, and breweries.

“We look forward to welcoming visitors during the fast approaching school holidays, if you haven’t booked your trip you better get in quick."