A new water quality forecasting signage service will be trialled at four bayside beaches over the next four weekends.
Minister for the Environment and Climate Change Ryan Smith launched the trial at Mordialloc beach ahead of this weekend, as part of a new partnership between EPA and Life Saving Victoria.
Visitors to Altona, St Kilda, Mordialloc and Frankston beaches will now be able to view up to date localised water quality information.
The trial will run alongside the detailed information currently provided by the beach report website and smartphone applications, launched in November 2011.
Feedback from beachgoers will be gathered at the four beaches receiving new signage as well as two ‘control’ locations, Elwood and Mentone beach.
The trial will also provide local lifesavers with remote internet access to allow them to receive regular updates, as well as an info sheet with general water quality information and detailed explanation of factors affecting water quality for their use at each of the participating beaches.
Large signs will be displayed during patrol hours and may be updated at 3pm in line with the forecast. Results from the trial will be used in developing the direction of future water quality forecasting for Port Phillip Bay.