WA Health closes Elizabeth Quay waterpark for second time in a month

On February 22, following routine water sampling, the WA Department of Health recommended the temporary closure of the BHP Billiton Water Park at Elizabeth Quay. A message on the waterpark's website says it will be closed for maintenance from until further notice.

The park was officially opened on January 29.

WA Health Chief Health Officer Tarun Weeramanthri said the closure follows the detection of bacteria (Pseudomonas type) in the water spray and amoebae in the waste discharge pipes.

“In the interest of public safety, and following best practice guidelines, the BHP Billiton Water Park was closed today to allow for modifications to the park’s filtration systems,” Professor Weeramanthri said on Monday.

“While tests are needed to confirm if the amoebae is pathogenic (disease causing), the presence of Pseudomonas bacteria can cause skin rashes or ear or eye infections in some people.

“Anyone who experiences these conditions following exposure to the water park should visit their GP.”

Professor Weeramanthri said previous detections of non-pathogenic amoeba in the waste discharge pipes – which caused the temporary closure of the park earlier this month – were treated appropriately at the time.

WA Health will continue to work closely with the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority to determine when the BHP Billiton Water Park can be safely re-opened.

For more information on water playground safety visit: www.health.wa.gov.au