Lake Rosebery Oil Spill response continues

Work is continuing at Lake Rosebery to clean up an estimated 4,000L of oil that was flushed from an old storage tank earlier this month.

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) response team on site is trialling several techniques to establish a cleaning regime for the affected vegetation and water on and around the lake.

“The lake has now been entirely mapped, providing a comprehensive picture of the extent of the spill," EPA CEO and Director, Wes Ford said.

“Around 52.4 kilometres of shoreline has now been surveyed, as far as the Bastyan Dam, and our teams on the ground are methodically working through the data collected to inform options and longer-term decisions for clean-up operations and wildlife support.

“Water and shoreline-based teams continue to be vigilant for oil impacted wildlife while undertaking operations, and a dedicated oiled wildlife spotter has been deployed to the site full-time," said Mr Ford.

Trials are underway in Mackintosh Gorge to determine the best techniques for cleaning affected areas.  Using Tas Ports' Pelican vessel and EPA punts to access heavily oiled areas of the gorge, teams are tackling deadwood, thick foliage, and overhanging components.

The EPA has requested Hydro Tasmania lower the level of Lake Rosebery by 300 millimetres to enable safer shoreline access for clean-up efforts.  Lowering the lake is part of the tactical response and will allow for more shoreline-based clean-up using waders rather than boats.  It will also give extra clearance in the gorge where oiled foliage is located on steep and difficult to reach areas.  The reduction will commence on Wednesday 29 January 2025 and remain lowered until shoreline cleanup has been completed in priority areas.

Mr Ford said water and shoreline impact data collected has established that there has been approximately 26 kilometres of shoreline confirmed oiled, and this information is being used to assist in the planning of the clean-up, including estimated timeframes.

The lake has been declared a Prohibited Area by Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) and extended until 11:59 pm on Friday 14 February 2025, unless cancelled sooner, and includes all waters of Lake Rosebery.​

Published on: 30/01/2025