What caused the water at Coogee Beach to turn green?

The water turned green due to fluorescein, a non-toxic dye used by plumbers to trace water flow.

Is the green liquid at Coogee Beach dangerous?

No, the Randwick City Council stated the fluorescein dye is non-toxic and poses no environmental or human health risk.

Which Sydney beaches have poor water quality?

Coogee, Malabar, Shelly Beach, Rose Bay Beach, and Murray Rose Pool have repeatedly recorded poor water quality results.

Home / Environment / Sydney Beach Turns Neon Green: Council Says No Harm

Sydney Beach Turns Neon Green: Council Says No Harm

28 Nov

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Summary

A vibrant green liquid flowed into Coogee Beach surf.
Council identified the non-toxic dye as fluorescein.
New data shows many Sydney beaches have water quality concerns.

Sydney Beach Turns Neon Green: Council Says No Harm

A striking fluorescent green liquid recently flowed into the surf at Coogee Beach, alarming beachgoers. The Randwick City Council promptly identified the substance as fluorescein, a common water-soluble dye used by plumbers to trace water flow. They assured the public that the dye is non-toxic and odourless, though it may cause minor skin irritation, and that the colour would dissipate within hours.

This incident occurs amidst broader concerns about water quality at Sydney beaches. The 2024-25 NSW State of the Beaches report indicates that approximately 21 percent of tested swimming locations statewide received 'poor' or 'very poor' ratings due to faecal contamination.

Specifically within Sydney, Coogee and Malabar in the Randwick council area, along with other popular sites like Shelly Beach and Rose Bay Beach, have repeatedly recorded 'poor' results. Government advice recommends caution at such locations, especially after rainfall, and avoidance of sites rated 'very poor'.

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