Horsham Council’s infrastructure director John Martin said water samples had been taken for laboratory testing to confirm the species of algae. 

“It is most likely that what is being seen is potentially toxic, and warning signs will be erected later today,” he said. 

Mr Martin said people who come in contact with the water at Green Lake should wash affected skin immediately in clean water. 

“People are also advised not to use the affected water for cooking, drinking, washing or showering. Boiling the affected water will not make it safe to use,” he said.

The council staff will continue to monitor the lake for the presence of toxic algae. 

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