Red jellies flood Melbourne beaches – swimmers urged to stay away from the shallows

Here’s a breakdown of the article content, focusing on the key information and structure:

Main Topic: An unusual increase in lion’s mane jellyfish sightings along the coast of Melbourne, Australia.

Key Information:

* Jellyfish Sightings: There has been a recent increase in lion’s mane jellyfish ( Cyanea annaskala) near melbourne beaches. While common, the numbers are higher than usual. A large group (“smack”) had previously caused a beach closure.
* Size & Characteristics: Most jellyfish are around the size of a peach, with tentacles up to a metre long. Some can grow to be a metre across.
* Potential Danger: Their stings can be painful and perhaps perilous, especially for children, the elderly, and those with allergies.
* Safety Advice:

* Don’t swim if jellyfish are visible in shallow water.
* Swim at patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags.
* Do not touch jellyfish on the sand.
* If stung: Get out of the water, rinse with seawater, carefully remove tentacles, use hot water for pain, and call 000 (emergency services) for serious symptoms.
* Possible Cause: Warm water, nutrients, and onshore winds are believed to be contributing factors to the increased presence of jellyfish.
* Council Statement: Bayside City Council has acknowledged the sightings as a natural seasonal occurrence and is advising caution.
* Related Article: A link is provided to an article about “the world’s ugliest lawn”

Article structure:

1. Introduction: States the unusual increase in jellyfish sightings.
2. description of Jellyfish: details about size, appearance, and where they were spotted.
3. Safety Concerns: Highlights the potential danger of their sting and provides safety advice from Life Saving Victoria.
4. Possible Explanations: Offers potential reasons for the higher numbers (water temperature, nutrients, wind).
5. Council Response: Includes a statement from bayside City Council.
6. Additional Information: Provides the scientific name and reiterates that they are native to the area.
7. Related Article: Promotes another article from The Guardian.
8. Newsletter Sign-Up: There is a section at the end for people to sign up for a newsletter.

Multimedia:

* A looping video of jellyfish is embedded at the beginning of the article.
* A photograph of a lion’s mane jellyfish is included.

the article reports on a temporary local environmental event – a higher than usual population of jellyfish – and gives information on what to do for safety purposes.

What exactly are the red jellyfish (Nemopsis bungei) that are currently causing beach alerts in Melbourne?

Red Jellies flood Melbourne Beaches – Swimmers Urged to stay Away from the Shallows

Melbourne’s beaches are currently experiencing a notable bloom of red jellyfish,prompting authorities to advise swimmers to avoid the water,notably in shallow areas. The influx,first noted on January 26th,2026,is impacting beaches across Port Phillip Bay and along the Mornington Peninsula.

What are these Red Jellies?

The species responsible for the current bloom is Nemopsis bungei, commonly known as the red jellyfish or flower hat jellyfish. While not typically considered highly venomous to humans, their sting can cause localized pain, itching, and skin irritation. The sheer number of jellyfish present is the primary concern, increasing the likelihood of multiple stings.

These jellyfish are relatively small, typically growing to around 2-3cm in diameter, and are easily identifiable by their radiant red or reddish-brown colour and distinctive flower-like appearance. They are pelagic creatures, meaning they drift with the currents, and are often found in sheltered bays and estuaries.

Why are we seeing a Bloom Now?

Several factors contribute to jellyfish blooms. Experts from the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute suggest the current bloom is highly likely a result of:

* Warmer Water Temperatures: Unusually warm temperatures in Port Phillip Bay over the summer months have created ideal breeding conditions.

* Nutrient Runoff: Increased rainfall and agricultural runoff have led to higher nutrient levels in the water, supporting the growth of jellyfish prey – zooplankton.

* Favourable Currents: Current patterns are concentrating the jellyfish in specific areas, leading to the visible blooms.

* Reduced Predator Populations: A decline in certain fish species that prey on jellyfish may also be playing a role.

Affected Beaches & Current Status (January 28, 2026)

As of this morning, the following beaches are reporting significant jellyfish activity:

* St Kilda Beach: High concentrations reported, swimming strongly discouraged.

* Brighton Beach: Moderate levels, caution advised.

* Frankston beach: Significant bloom, particularly in the shallow waters near the pier.

* Mount Martha Beach: Moderate to high concentrations, flags are up.

* Portsea Beach: Lower levels,but still present; swimmers shoudl be vigilant.

Lifeguards are actively monitoring conditions and displaying red flags at beaches where jellyfish numbers are high. Real-time updates are available via the Life Saving Victoria website and app.

What to Do If Stung

If you are stung by a red jellyfish:

1. Instantly exit the water.
2. Carefully remove any visible tentacles using gloves or a stick – do not rub the area.
3. Rinse the affected area with vinegar for at least 30 seconds. Vinegar helps neutralize the stinging cells. (Note: While traditionally recommended, recent research suggests hot water immersion may be more effective for some jellyfish stings, but vinegar remains the standard first aid for Nemopsis bungei).
4. Apply a cold pack or ice pack to reduce pain and swelling.
5. Seek medical attention if you experiance severe pain, difficulty breathing, or an allergic reaction.

Preventing Stings: Practical Tips for Beachgoers

* Swim between the flags: Always swim at patrolled beaches and follow the instructions of lifeguards.

* Wear protective clothing: Consider wearing a stinger suit or wetsuit, especially if you are sensitive to jellyfish stings.

* Avoid shallow water: Jellyfish tend to congregate in shallow areas, particularly near piers and jetties.

* Be aware of your surroundings: Look out for jellyfish while in the water and on the beach.

* Check conditions before you go: Consult the Life Saving Victoria website or app for the latest beach conditions and jellyfish alerts.

* Carry vinegar: If you are prone to jellyfish stings, consider carrying a small bottle of vinegar with you to the beach.

Historical Blooms & Long-Term Trends

while jellyfish blooms are a natural phenomenon, their frequency and intensity appear to be increasing globally. A 2024 study published in Global Change Biology linked rising ocean temperatures and increased nutrient pollution to a significant rise in jellyfish blooms worldwide.

In Victoria,significant blooms of nemopsis bungei were also recorded in 2018 and 2021,suggesting a potential pattern of increased frequency.Ongoing monitoring and research are crucial to understanding the long-term trends and mitigating the impacts of these blooms on marine ecosystems and public health.

Resources

* Life Saving Victoria: https://www.lifesavingvictoria.com.au/

* Marine and Freshwater Research Institute: https://www.marineandfreshwater.vic.gov.au/