On Wednesday, July 10, police charged a 32-year-old man with leaving an article with intent to cause alarm.

Batemans Bay Inspector Angela Burnell said the South Coast Police District detectives conducted a thorough investigation.

She praised the efforts of police on the day.

She said council workers were cleaning up rubbish when they noticed the bag and called emergency services.

"We congratulate the council workers who brought this to our attention," she said.

"They did exactly what they should have done to ensure public safety."

READ MORE: Police charge Batemans Bay man in alleged bomb hoax case