Warialda Water Supply has tested positive for PFAS

Published on 10 December 2024

The water supply at Warialda has tested positive for PFAS.

 

PFAS are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a group of over 4000 chemicals. Some PFAS are very effective at resisting heat, stains, grease and water, making them useful chemicals for a range of applications including: Stain and water protection for carpets, fabric, furniture and apparel.

Once the positive test was confirmed the Council’s staff and Mayor have had several conversations with NSW Health representatives.

It is unclear how this contaminant came to be in the water and further testing is being conducted.

NSW Health are preparing a Press Release, which will also be letterbox dropped tomorrow to each household.

Part of the preliminary discussion involved ensuring that sufficient bottled water would be available once the Press Release was issued and to discourage any panic buying because of a lack of information being available.

Unfortunately, the issue became public knowledge in an unplanned way and has led apparently to some panic buying.

It is important to realise that the potential danger is there but minimal. However, NSW Health and the Council are acting with an abundance of caution.
It’s disappointing that the information was disseminated in this manner without the relevant information being available at the same time.
Feel free to pass this email on to any concerned resident who may contact you.

 

Max Eastcott

General Manager

 

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