Several Sydney beaches, including Manly and Dee Why, were forced to close on January 14 after marble-sized balls began washing ashore. The Northern Beaches Council confirmed the balls contained a mix of saturated fatty acids, E. coli, faecal bacteria, and volcanic rock pumice. The debris has been sent for further analysis to the New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

This latest incident follows a similar one in October when thousands of black blobs appeared along the city's coasts, prompting closures of several famous beaches and a large-scale clean-up effort. Authorities have urged residents to avoid handling the mysterious balls and to report sightings.

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins expressed hope that the EPA's investigation will help identify the source of the contamination, preventing further occurrences. "We are continuing to conduct regular inspections of our beaches," Heins stated. "We encourage the community to report any sightings."

The first batch of debris discovered last year was initially misidentified as "tar balls." Upon further investigation, it was found to contain a variety of substances, including cooking oil, soap scum molecules, blood pressure medication, pesticides, hair, methamphetamine, and veterinary drugs. Experts noted that the blobs resembled fatbergs, commonly found in sewage systems, though Sydney Water confirmed no known issues with waste treatment facilities.

Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely as they work to ensure the safety of the public and Sydney's popular beaches.