What caused Sydney's beaches to close recently?

Sydney's beaches closed due to 'debris balls' likely originating from a large fatberg in an ocean sewer.

How big is the Sydney fatberg?

The Sydney fatberg is estimated to be as large as four buses.

What is Sydney Water doing about the beach debris?

Sydney Water is cleaning the affected beaches and warning the public about potential sewage pollution.

Home / Environment / Sydney Beaches Closed by Giant 'Fatberg' Balls

Sydney Beaches Closed by Giant 'Fatberg' Balls

21 Jan

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Summary

Giant fatberg, size of four buses, suspected source of sewage debris.
Heavy rains caused 'sloughing events' releasing debris balls.
Beaches warned of potential sewage pollution after debris appeared.

Sydney Beaches Closed by Giant 'Fatberg' Balls

Recent heavy rainfall in Sydney has led to the appearance of foul-smelling "debris balls" on several beaches, including Malabar and Foreshore Beach, prompting warnings and closures.

Sydney Water has placed signs advising the public to avoid touching the debris, which consists of black, grey, and waxy lumps. These balls are believed to originate from a colossal fatberg, estimated to be the size of four buses, situated within the Malabar deepwater ocean sewer.

This massive buildup of fats, oils, and grease is thought to be in an "inaccessible dead zone." The debris balls are released during "sloughing events," which occur when pumping pressure changes suddenly, often due to events like heavy rain or power outages. The city experienced over 100mm of rainfall recently, exacerbating the issue.