Beachwatch and Harbourwatch Bacteriological Database

Bacteriological analysis of Beachwatch and Harbourwatch programs water samples. During the summer season (October to April) each site is monitored approximately once every six days. At ocean beaches 6-day sampling continues year round. At harbour beaches, 6-day sampling is limited to the summer season, with monthly surveillance sampling undertaken during the winter period. Samples are analysed for enterococci. Some programs have varied since program was established. The annual State of the Beaches report details the analysis of the data. Approximately 130 swimming locations are monitored in the Sydney, Hunter and Illawarra regions, with a further 150 sites monitored in partnership with local councils along the NSW coast.