Have you ever wondered if it’s safe to go swimming in your favourite spot this coming weekend? Our Healthy Waterplay program is supporting local authorities and communities to make better decisions on when to recreate in our waterways safely.

	Swimmers, these tips will help you make the best decisions on where and when to go for a dip:
		Looking out for signs of pollution such as discoloured or strong-smelling water and debris.
		Avoid swimming near stormwater drains and floodwaters.
		Adhering to signs and warnings.
		Avoid entering waterways for a few days after heavy rainfall events. It is important to keep in mind that during heavy rainfall events, sewers can potentially overflow into stormwater pipes and subsequently into our waterways. When stormwater makes its way into waterways, it can carry disease-causing microorganisms.
		For more useful info read this article.

South East Queensland's waterways have long been a source of fun and recreation for our community.

However, beneath the surface lies the potential for health risks associated with water pollution. Precipitation has the potential to carry pollutants into our waterways, rendering specific locations unfit for recreational activities.

The Healthy Waterplay program was established to inform and protect our communities against these risks by providing guidelines to support consistent monitoring and management of recreational water quality in the region.

Charting a course for safety

The program provides messaging on known risks and information and tools aligned with national guidelines to enable the assessment of the waterways’ recreation suitability by local authorities.

This program also empowers individuals to make informed decisions about when and where to enjoy water-based activities while prioritising their safety and wellbeing.

Collaboration with local authorities

Local governments and councils play a crucial role in managing our waterways. The program supports them with tools and information to assist these authorities in evaluating the suitability of waterways. Endorsed by Healthy Land and Water members and the Human Health Scientific Expert Panel, these resources ensure a consistent and reliable approach to monitoring water quality in the region.

The Healthy Waterplay program encourages everyone to play a role in maintaining waterway cleanliness and safety. Simple actions, such as using designated toilets and waste facilities, ensuring young children take frequent toilet breaks, and proper disposal of waste during boating – only to name some- go a long way.

Resources and much more

Read the full project snapshot to access:

• Resources.
• More tips for enjoying our waterways safely.
• Frequently asked questions.
• And more.

Based on science Guidelines and management frameworks have been developed based on evidence and guidance from experts on recreational waterway health risks in SEQ.	Partnerships & collaborations Information and tools have been developed to assist managers such as local government and local councils in assessing the recreation suitability of waterways across South East Queensland.	Assisting and empowering SEQ communities Management guidelines and monitoring insights is shared with communities across SEQ to help people make informed decisions about where and when to use waterways for recreation.

Acknowledgements
This project is supported by Healthy Land & Water, Queensland Government, Brisbane City Council, Redland City Council, Logan City Council, Moreton Bay Regional Council, Sunshine Coast Council, Noosa Council, Somerset Regional Council, Scenic Rim Regional Council, Lockyer Valley Regional Council, City of Gold Coast, Ipswich City Council, Seqwater, Urban Utilities.