The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has confirmed that debris balls found on Central Coast beaches in August likely also originated from Sydney Water's Malabar Wastewater Treatment System.
To determine the source, samples of the Central Coast debris balls were collected for comparison with samples from different wastewater treatment facilities operated by Central Coast Council, Hunter Water, and Sydney Water.
Analysis of the Central Coast debris ball samples revealed a matching chemical signature to material from Sydney Water's Malabar Wastewater System, identifying it as the most probable source.
Sydney Water is currently undertaking additional investigations as part of efforts to pinpoint potential sources of the debris within its Malabar System.
These investigations will inform Sydney Water's short, medium, and long-term works to reduce the likelihood of similar incidents from occurring.
Short-term works have already commenced. The short, medium and long-term works are expected to be reflected in EPA regulatory requirements by the end of 2025.
