When the Sea Changes, We Stand Together: SEA Supports Surf Life Saving SA’s Response to South Australia’s Algal Bloom

South Australia’s coastline is experiencing one of the most significant algal blooms in decades, stretching more than 150 kilometres from the Fleurieu Peninsula to Gulf St Vincent. While the bloom has caused environmental and economic impacts – including fish and shellfish deaths and challenges for aquaculture and fisheries – public health authorities advise that beaches remain open for swimming and the bloom is not harmful to humans.

Throughout this event, Surf Life Saving SA (SLSSA) and their volunteers have shown and continue to show extraordinary leadership, working hand-in-hand with government, industry, and community to provide reassurance and keep the public safe. Their commitment ensures that South Australians can continue to feel confident and safe enjoying their beaches this summer.

This is more than a story about environmental loss – it’s a reminder of the fragility of the natural places where we gather, play, and connect. For surf lifesaving clubs, the ocean is more than a meeting place – it’s a community hub, a training ground, and a source of shared joy. When the sea suffers, we all do.

The current bloom is the result of a “perfect storm” of conditions: marine heatwaves, nutrient-rich runoff from earlier floods, prolonged calm weather, and high sunlight levels. These pressures reflect a larger, global challenge – the increasing vulnerability of our ecosystems under the combined effects of climate change and environmental degradation.

SEA stands with SLSSA and acknowledges the way they are leading the response – not only through their on-the-ground efforts but also in helping the community stay informed and supported. For the most up-to-date information on how SLSSA is managing this event, please visit the link below.

At SEA, we believe events like this highlight the importance of protecting the environments that make sport possible. While this bloom is not a direct health risk for people, it shows the need for coordinated action across sport, government, and industry to reduce our environmental footprint and prevent future crises.

Today, we commend Surf Life Saving SA and their volunteers for their leadership and resilience. Tomorrow, we continue our shared mission: to protect the places where sport meets nature and ensure our coastal communities can thrive.