UPDATE: The source of the bizarre debris balls that washed up on beaches across the NSW Central Coast has been confirmed, sparking urgent concerns among local beachgoers. These grey balls, reported in August 2025, have been traced back to the Malabar Wastewater System operated by Sydney Water.
In an alarming revelation, environmental officers discovered these balls, ranging from 10 grams to 40 grams, at multiple locations including Shelly Beach, The Entrance Beach, and Toowoon Bay. The investigation into their origin revealed that samples matched the chemical signature of Sydney Water, indicating a significant leak.
Authorities are actively investigating how this incident occurred. Sydney Water is working to pinpoint the exact cause of the leak, which has raised serious environmental concerns. Clean-up crews have already removed 40 kg of this debris and disposed of it at a licensed waste facility to prevent further contamination.
Local officials have issued urgent warnings for beachgoers to avoid swimming, walking, or exercising at affected beaches. Pets should also stay clear of these areas to prevent health risks, as reports have emerged of a dog falling ill after ingesting the debris balls.
A concerned dog owner shared their distress online, stating, “Went to Shelly Beach today… dogs ate some of the waste balls and are now vomiting.” Thankfully, they confirmed their pets are recovering, but the incident has left many beachgoers shaken.
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has committed to providing updates as they investigate further. Residents are encouraged to report any new sightings of the debris to their local council.
This situation underscores the importance of beach safety and environmental responsibility. Authorities are urging the community to remain vigilant and informed as they work to resolve this troubling issue. Keep an eye on the latest updates as this story develops.
