The bluebottle is found in marine waters throughout Australia and is more common on exposed ocean beaches after strong onshore winds.

North-easterly winds push them to shore, Mr Turnham said.

“What normally happens is, we get those winds and the bluebottles start to wash in because of it,” he said.

“There are a few down on Town Beach, and we can expect a few for the rest of the week, but it’s nothing we didn’t expect.”

The conditions are common at this time of the year after a winter dominated by southerly winds.

“That’s why it’s more common to see so many bluebottles in summer,” Mr Turnham said.

“We don’t touch the bluebottles, but we will put up a sign to warn people. There’s not much we can do really.”

If there are a mass of bluebottles, particularly in the water, beaches can be closed.

People are advised not to go near or to touch them.

Avoid going in the water if you are allergic to them. 

If you are stung see a lifeguard, or soothe the pain by using warm water or ice.