Residents living near Newcastle Harbour have reported weeks of strong, unpleasant odours spreading across the region.
And, it includes suburbs such as Mayfield, Carrington, Tighes Hill and Maryville.
Now, the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is investigating the cause.
“We have been undertaking targeted odour surveys and inspections since February,” a spokesperson said.
“That’s in addition to the EPA’s regular oversight of licensed industrial sites in the Newcastle LGA.
“EPA officers are undertaking further odour surveys including targeted unannounced inspections.”
Since 26 February, the EPA has received 13 reports of odours in the area from a variety of sources.
“As some community reports describe different odour characteristics, no single source of the smell has been confirmed,” the spokesperson said.
“Weather and tidal conditions may also be contributing to how odours are experienced in the area.
“We thank the community for the valuable information they have provided so far.
“Anyone who experiences strong or unusual odours should report them to the EPA’s Environment Line with as much detail as possible to support our investigations.”
Locals say the odour is noticeable across Newcastle Harbour.
Brian Connors, a Mayfield resident, detected it while standing near his kitchen window.
“The smell was around either side of a week,” he said.
“I thought it was cooking oil, but it wasn’t as nice smelling.
“However, I thought it can’t be good for you.”
Andrew Adams, who goes on morning walks around the harbour, said the odours were a common occurrence.
“I pick up a lot of fishy smells,” he explained.
“Especially down the back end of Elizabeth Street.”
Environmental factors may also play a role.
Throsby Creek, which runs through Mayfield and nearby suburbs, has previously been linked to odours due to sediment build-up and mangroves, particularly at low tide.
The creek is currently the focus of a state-funded monitoring program that tests water quality, reduces litter, and improves habitats.
At this stage, the source of the odour remains unclear, and the EPA continues to investigate multiple potential contributors.
For more news stories:
- Heatherbrae Bypass complete as M1 extension fast-tracked for early opening
- KFC lodges $3.6m plans for Jesmond site
- Long-awaited $48.26m project reconnects Merriwa to Willow Tree
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
