South Burnett Council addresses concerns over ‘discoloured’ tap water

The South Burnett Regional Council has apologised to community members who have been affected by the unusual, discoloured water that has come out of their taps in recent weeks but maintains it is safe to drink.

South Burnett residents have been sharing photos of their discoloured tap water on social media in recent weeks.

The South Burnett Regional Council has apologised to community members who have been affected by the discoloured water coming out of their taps in recent weeks but maintains it is safe to drink.

Residents have been posting shocking photos on social media of the discoloured water, sometimes a rich brown colour, over the past few weeks.

The council released a statement on Thursday saying they have been “working non-stop” to identify the source of the issue but said no single event had been able to be identified.

Despite the water being discoloured, the South Burnett Council told concerned residents it is safe to drink.

The council said a change of raw water source, combined with the recent storm rainfall and surface water run-off from tributaries, creeks and rivers in the South Burnett, has contributed to increased water turbidity which makes it difficult to produce clear water.

“The current alternative water source is high in iron and manganese which is causing discoloured water, but when blended with the Boondooma water that is chlorinated, it is safe to drink,” the council said.

Water mains replacement and repairs which can result in sediment being disturbed in the pipes as well as organic material found in the main water source, were other explanations given by council.

The council conceded the taste and smell of the water was not to everyone’s satisfaction or to their own standards.

“South Burnett Regional Council Water team is working to resolve the problem with plans to air scour the pipe network and/or flush the lines where the area of discolouration is apparent,” council said.

The South Burnett Council told concerned residents the water supply is safe.

The statement said chlorine was used to disinfect the water from viruses, bacteria and protozoans.

“This oxidising agent dissolves trace metals which present tea or rust-coloured water.

“Council maintains a comprehensive testing regime and the water meets the Australian

Drinking Water Guidelines.”

Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington said in December she would be raising the drinking water issue with the South Burnett Regional Council.

“I will certainly raise this issue with council as it is important to have a water supply that residents can rely on,” she said.