Residents near Bombo Beach in Kiama have taken to social media to report finding strange, foul-smelling black balls washed ashore. In response, Mayor Cameron McDonald has assured the community that swift action is underway to address the issue.

Speculation has risen that these "black balls" may be similar to the ones recently found on iconic Sydney beaches, including Bondi. The New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA) first issued a warning on October 17, advising Sydney residents to avoid touching or swimming near the debris. A scientific team from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) later identified the balls as miniature "fatbergs"—disgusting amalgamations of human feces, methamphetamine, human hair, fatty acids, food waste, and other waste materials.

In Kiama, the EPA has been notified, and samples collected by beachgoers are being tested. Local council rangers and compliance officers are focusing their investigation on Bombo and Boneyard beaches, working to determine the source and potential risks associated with the debris.

Mayor McDonald, who is currently attending the Local Government New South Wales (LGNSW) Conference in Tamworth alongside Council CEO and Deputy Mayor Melissa Matters, addressed the situation in a statement to *The Bugle*. “This is a concerning issue for our community, and we are committed to ensuring it is thoroughly investigated. The EPA and council staff are actively working to assess the situation,” he said.

The Honourable Penny Sharpe MLC, Minister for Climate Change, Energy, Environment, and Heritage, has also been briefed on the matter. Discussions between the Minister and Kiama Council are expected to focus on the origin of the debris and any infrastructure improvements necessary to prevent future incidents, particularly as Kiama continues to grow.

The council has promised to release a formal statement once more information is available. In the meantime, residents are advised to avoid handling the black balls and to report any sightings to Council. Touching or breaking them open is highly discouraged due to their potent and unpleasant odor.