Fraser Gregory Park Playground in Geraldton, Western Australia, was closed as a precaution after low levels of thallium were detected in sand during an environmental investigation into dust emissions. Preliminary testing by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation identified what it described as an isolated, low-level detection at the playground.
The investigation followed complaints from Geraldton residents about increased dust affecting homes and businesses. In July, the department collected 40 soil samples from houses, schools and healthcare facilities across Beachlands, a residential suburb near the rail and road corridor into Geraldton Port. The source of the thallium detected in the playground sandpit remained unclear.
City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Jerry Clune said the playground had been cordoned off while further information was sought about potential risks. The department said additional testing of the affected playground site would be undertaken following direction from the Department of Health.
Preliminary results also found lead levels in the dust and soil samples were below levels considered safe for humans. Further technical assessment was planned before sources of the dust emissions could be identified.
