A blue green algae outbreak in the Barwon River won’t stop one of the states biggest rowing events from coming to Geelong this weekend.
Rowing Victoria (RV) says the river is still suitable to host the Head of Schoolgirls’ Regatta (HOSG), which will be held from Friday to Sunday.
Officials met on Wednesday afternoon to discuss a possible move to Lake Wendouree in Ballarat.
“RV and the HOSG’s Regatta Committee are pleased to announce that the latest testing results indicate that the blue green algae levels have decreased considerably on the Barwon River,” a statement read.
“With the improved water quality, reduced temperature and the introduction of rainfall, we are comfortable to proceed with the 2024 HOSG on the Barwon River.
“We do acknowledge that there are still traces of blue green algae present in the water and precautions will be in place to mitigate blue green algae risks.
“A full list of blue green algae management processes will be available (on Thursday) on the HOSG event page.”
The HOSG has grown to be Australia’s largest Schoolgirls’ Regatta and one of the most prestigious, with over 50 schools from across the state competing, bringing over 2,500 year 9-12 girls to Geelong for the weekend.
