Food Poisoning from a Restaurant

Important Note: Please seek medical advice if you believe you have food poisoning.

Food poisoning can occur when contaminated food is consumed. Food poisoning can be caused by harmful bacteria, viruses or toxins. Common symptoms of food poisoning can include, but are not limited to, nausea, vomiting, fever, diarrhoea and stomach pain.

Depending on the type of food poisoning, symptoms can be experienced hours to days after consumption. It is important to remember that the last meal that you consumed may not be the cause of the food poisoning.

If you suspect that you have contracted food poisoning from a food business in the Town of Victoria Park;

  • Contact the Town and submit a service request through the Town’s website
  • If you have any of the food left over, put it in the freezer as we may be able to test it for food poisoning bacteria
  • Keep any receipts for purchased food
  • Note down all the details surrounding the purchase of the food e.g. time eaten, symptoms, if any other family members are affected, where you purchased the food and if you reported your illness to the food business.
  • Note down all food consumed at least the couple of days before symptoms started

The Environmental Health Officer dealing with your request may send any remaining food for analysis and visit the food business to carry out an investigation.

Algal Blooms Within the Swan River 

Under suitable environmental conditions algae can grow very fast or ‘bloom’ into thick, visible patches near the waters surface. Blooms occur naturally, but excessive nutrients and certain environmental conditions can cause larger growth.  Blooms are most common from early spring through to late autumn.  

Most algae are harmless, but some algal blooms can pose a health risk.  Certain algae may also produce toxins that can contaminate shellfish and make them unsafe to eat.  

The Department of Health (DoH) conducts routine water testing of the Swan River; if an algal bloom is considered hazardous the DoH will broadcast public warnings via television, radio, local or regional newspapers and online.  Prominent health warning signs are usually placed in areas where people commonly access the water. Look for these warning signs and follow the advice. 

For more information about algal bloom visit the Department of Health website Algal blooms (healthywa.wa.gov.au). 

Visit the Swan River Trust website for weekly algae activity levels for the Swan and Canning Rivers  Home - Swan River Trust (dpaw.wa.gov.au).

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