Following recent cyclonic activity off the South-East Queensland coast, thick sea foam has washed ashore, tempting many to dive in and play. However, Dr Kurtböke warns that this “bacteria smoothie” could be more hazardous than the effluent at a sewage treatment plant.

Specialising in near-shore marine water pollution, İpek’s presentation will reveal the alarming presence and sources of Nocardia bacteria found in sea foam, the health risks it poses to humans and animals, and the dangers of its toxic by-products.

With a research career spanning environmental, biomedical, agricultural, and food microbiology since 1982, Dr Kurtböke brings international experience and vital insights. Since 2001, she has been at the forefront of applied microbiology and biotechnology teaching and research at USC.

Her message is simple but urgent “Stay out of the sea foam if you don’t want to risk harming your health.”

About NPA’s Friday Environment Forum

Everyone is welcome at our Friday Forum on May 9 at the Noosa Parks Association Environment Centre, 5 Wallace Drive, Noosaville.

Entry is only $5 via ‘tap & go’, which includes morning tea/coffee.
10:30am – Forum commences
10am-10.25am – Morning tea

Join the bird observers at 8.30am in the carpark for interpretive birding.

For more information: www.noosaparks.org.au