Coliban Water is warning customers across northern Victoria that water quality issues could continue for the months ahead.
Chief Officer Assets and Operations Danny McLean said the significant wet weather has caused extreme poor raw water quality across sources such as the Murray and Campaspe Rivers.
“When we experience wet weather and flooding like we have since October, all sorts of things flow into the rivers. The organic content in the water we source is much higher than usual,” he said.
Customer drinking water remains safe to consume and our Water Treatment Plants are working hard to meet community demand and supply clean drinking water that meets the Australian Health Based Guidelines.
“Our water quality is monitored and tested night and day, with multiple samples taken from reservoirs, water filtration plants, storage tanks, pump stations and customers’ taps. We use independent testing laboratories to make sure the water is the best it can be,” Mr McLean said.
Coliban Water manages the region’s water supply network to cope with seasonal demands, such as an increase in summer population, but this year the organisation is monitoring the situation closely to ensure demand is catered for, particularly between Gunbower and Cohuna.
“Right now, for example, we’re asking customers in Cohuna to minimise water use to essentials only. We’re currently carting water from Echuca, but to cope with the added demand of the tourist season, we need customers to be extremely waterwise,” Mr McLean said.
If you’re visiting the region for a holiday, please assist the local customers by being mindful of your water use.
“This means keeping showers short, washing full loads of clothes, only watering the garden when it really needs it, and minimising car washing.
"Water trailers are also available for domestic use at two locations; one at the Cohuna oval on Cohuna Island Rd and one at Kings Park Playground.
“We also recommend storing 20-40 litres of water to supply your household in case there is a change or interruption to your water supply.
“We’re in the business of public health, and we take that responsibility very seriously. Our customers can trust that we have strong processes and communication strategies in place to keep our customers informed.”
Learn more about how Coliban Water delivers a trusted water supply visit Connect Coliban. For further information call 1300 363 200.