Sydney Water says 3.12 megalitres of partially treated sewage was released into the ocean at Potter Point near Kurnell during a power failure yesterday.
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The power outage started at 11.30am and lasted 80 minutes.
Sydney Water did not provide a reason in its initial response.
‘‘No untreated effluent was discharged into the ocean,’’ a spokesman said.
‘‘The partially treated wastewater went through the primary treatment processes of screening, which includes de-gritting and sedimentation and then disinfection.
‘‘These processes ensure that solid material is removed and bacteria is killed off.’’
The spokesman said Beachwatch, the Environment Protection Authority and Sutherland Shire Council were immediately notified.
‘‘Sydney Water scientists have taken samples at the plant and at Potter Point, and there is no visible pollution at the discharge point,’’ he said.
Confusion occurred when Beachwatch issued an alert about the release of untreated sewage, before later modifying the advice.
Opposition spokesman on water Peter Primrose called on the government to explain why there was no back-up power supply.
See Tuesday's Leader for a full report.
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