Jellyfish sting six on beach

Broome beaches closed briefly lastweek after six irukandji jellyfish stings were reported in one day, bringing January’s total to seven.

Broome Regional Hospital recorded the stings last Wednesday at Town Beach, Demco and Entrance Point between 2pm, 5.30pm and 6.30pm.

One of the victims, a Broome resident, was stung at Town Beach while using a throw net. Another was stung at about 5pm while swimming at Demco.

Meanwhile, a visitor to town was stung while in the water at Entrance Point at about 6.30pm. All victims presented at Broome Regional Hospital.

The stings of the irukandji jellyfish are potentially fatal.

All three beaches were closed, but reopened the following day.

Shire of Broome beach inspector Tim Trew said anyone planning to be out on, or in, the water should take precautions.

“If people are planning on going for a swim, they should cover up and wear a stinger suit and take along their own vinegar,” he said.

Mr Trew recommended people swim at Cable Beach, which has the least amount of recorded irukandji stings.