Poor raw water quality in the Gunbower Creek is leading to taste and odour issues in the water supply of Leitchville and Cohuna.
Acting Executive General Manager Service Delivery Daniel Watson said it is unusual to have these circumstances in winter but the organisation is working to resolve the issues.
“This is largely due to high concentrations of naturally occurring taste and odour compounds being present in the raw water supply from Gunbower Creek.
“Treatment measures are in place at both water treatment plants to minimise the impact to the drinking water supply for these towns. However, customers may be experiencing a change to their drinking water; with the water having an earthy taste and smell as a result.
“There are no health risks associated with the drinking water. It is safe for all drinking, bathing and food preparation purposes and the water being supplied continues to comply with all health-based guideline values in the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.
“Further works are being investigated at both locations to ensure water treatment processes are being optimised to minimise any impact to our customers in the future.
“However, until raw water quality improves we are unable to completely remove the taste and odour compounds,” Mr Watson said.
“We are currently sourcing water for Leitchville from an alternative location in Gunbower Creek than usual to allow some works to be undertaken by another agency on the Cohuna Main Channel, where raw water is normally drawn. We are now waiting on water quality results to ensure it is viable to switch sources again and resolve the issue.
“We can assure customers we are doing all we can to improve the taste and odour of their drinking water and will continue communicating with them throughout this process,” he said.
Two major planning projects are underway at Coliban Water, including the Pricing Submission 2023 and Urban Water Strategy, to plan for investments into the future. If you want to find out more about your region and have your say on water planning visit connect.coliban.com.au
For further information, please call our Customer Support Team on 1300 363 200.