The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is continuing to investigate the source of mysterious ‘chunks’ that washed up on two beaches in southern Tasmania in recent weeks.
Acting EPA Director Cindy Ong said a team of salmon scientists and investigators are currently exploring “several lines of inquiry”.
They include “potential connections” between the material and recent fish deaths at multiple Tasmanian salmon pens.
“Pollution incident investigation involves confirming the source or sources, which is not always straightforward,” Ong said.
“The EPA conducted boat and drone surveillance activities in the D’Entrecasteaux Channel last Thursday, with further surveillance planned for later this week.”
Analysis of the chunks found on Verona Sands beach was consistent with fish oil, Ong confirmed, noting that results did not indicate the presence of the antibiotic medicine being used to treat some fish.
“We are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry with the salmon companies, including timelines, mortality retrieval, waste and disposal movements,” she added.
“As with all our investigations, integrity is paramount and we are taking a systematic and objective approach.”
The EPA has also inspected several waste facilities where large numbers of dead fish are being dumped to ensure proper procedures are being followed.
Ong indicated that further comment on the incident “will be limited” until findings have been made.
