Authorities initially feared these balls could be made of toxic tar. Further testing from scientists indicated they are closer to 'fatbergs' typically found in sewers.
On October 16 lifeguards at Coogee Beach reported black balls on the sand, and there were soon more sightings at Bondi, Bronte, Tamarama and Maroubra beaches.
Sydney's Coogee Beach has been closed and an investigation was launched by the local council and environmental authorities earlier this week after hundreds of tar balls washed ashore. Since that time, the debris has appeared at three other beaches. But what are tar balls? Where have they come from? And are they dangerous?
"So it seems they haven't come from many different locations, they're consistent with all coming from one location at one time," he said.
Tar Balls Black Balls Pollution Beach Coogee Beach Debris Council Carcinogenic Environment Water Bondi Beach Environment Management Jon Beves
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