Marine stingers forces closure of 4 Mile Beach
Irukandji risk
Wind directions and the heat are clearly friends of marine stingers and their enforced presence over this weekend has closed many beaches, including Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas.
Four Mile has been closed since Friday after a large amount of salp was collected, which is a clear indicator of Irukandji in the water.
In confirming that Four Mile Beach was among a number of affected beaches, Surf Life Saving Queensland North Queensland lifeguard supervisor Jay March said if there is a change in the weather, the beach could be opened tomorrow (Monday).
Palm Cove, Clifton and Kewarra Beaches have been closed due to Irukandji jellyfish. SLSQ says all other beaches are "high risk". A child was stung at Yarrabah this weekend by a suspected Irukandji.
At this time of the year, with northerly and easterly winds changing the currents, this invites the Irukandji to be around.
Symptoms for Irukandji stings may take 20 – 40 minutes to develop and it is advised, if in doubt, to follow the first aid priorities and seek medical advice.
The Irukandji jellyfish are any of several similar, extremely venomous species of box jellyfish. With a very small adult size of about a cubic centimetre (cm3), they are both the smallest and one of the most venomous jellyfish in the world. They inhabit the northern marine waters off Australia. They are able to fire their stingers into their victim, causing a condition known as Irukandji syndrome, which can be fatal.
SLSQNQ said there are many visitors at this time of the year and they need to be aware of the risks of swimming outside the nets. “Locals should advise them of the dangers,” said March.