Mackay Airport
Current and ongoing advice
As at September 2024: people are advised to not consume fish caught from Shellgrit Creek, next to Mackay Airport.
See below for further information.
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) was detected in fish and water from Shellgrit Creek during Airservices Australia PFAS investigations in 2019.
The test results showed elevated levels of the chemical and consequently, possible health risks for people who eat the fish over a long period of time. There is no health risk for people who have infrequently eaten fish (every few months or less) from this creek.
The testing also showed that groundwater and surface water inside the airport had PFAS levels above national recreational use guideline values at some locations, while the PFAS in surface water at Shellgrit Creek was below the guidelines.
No public drinking water is sourced from these waterways and Mackay town water remains safe.
Further information
Members of the public concerned about their health should see their local doctor or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84).
For further information regarding Airservices Australia’s investigations email pfascomms@airservicesaustralia.com or visit the Airservices Australia website.