Central Darling Shire is the largest Shire in NSW and yet has the smallest population. It covers an area about the size of the main island of Tasmania and yet has a population of less than 2,000 people.
As you are aware, Wilcannia is experiencing unprecedented water
shortages due to the flow levels of the surrounding river system.
The town’s raw water is estimated at 30 days remaining in the weir pool.
The town’s filtered water supply is being sourced from the Union Bend
bore fields.
With current demand the bore’s will be able to produce enough water to
supply the town with filtered water only.
We are working with the NSW Government and relevant agencies to put in
place short-term fixes and long-term solutions, such as installing additional
bores and treatment systems, delivering packaged water when needed and
water-treatment options.
CURRENT WATER RESTRICTIONS
Central Darling Shire Council has put water restrictions in place in response to chronic water shortages resulting form the widespread drought.
Wilcannia - Level 4 Water Restrictions are now in
place for the use of RAW water in Wilcannia due to ongoing dry conditions and
the decreasing level of the Darling River.
CURRENT WATER SAFETY
ALERT:RAW Water is NOT SAFE to drink
in Wilcannia
Wilcannia – Raw
Water is sourced from the Darling River Weir Pool which currently has
a RED Alert for Blue Green Algae. Swimming and fishing in the river should
be avoided.
Blue Green Algae may be toxic to humans and animals. Contact with
or use of water from red alert areas should be avoided due to risk of eye
and skin irritation. Drinking this water should be avoided as it can cause
stomach upsets.
Potable Water is SAFE to drink
Potable Water is SAFE to drink in all Central Darling Shire Towns.
Wilcannia, Ivanhoe and White Cliffs water supplies are managed by Council staff who provide the Department of Health and DPI Water with regular results of samples collected to ensure water meets the Australian Drinking Water Guideline Standards
Menindee town water supply is managed by Essential Water who are also required to meet these standards.
Tilpa and White Cliffs water is classed as non-potable and is NOT GUARANTEED SAFE for human consumption.
Central Darling Shire Council is working with authorities to ensure
our community has safe water on tap for drinking and cooking.
Sometimes, even when water is safe for drinking, the taste can change
when water levels are low.
Here are some suggestions to improve the taste of town water * Chill it - fill a jug and refrigerate before drinking * Use a water filter * Add a low-sugar cordial * Add slices of lemons, limes, oranges or cucumber
WHAT WE’RE DOING
The NSW Government has appointed James McTavish as Regional Town Water
Supply Coordinator.
His job is to ensure communities, particularly in far western NSW,
affected by drought are able to access safe and acceptable water.
Since taking on the role in January, James has spoken to many locals
in key regions where there are issues with water quality, including with
Central Darling Shire Council.
We are working together with relevant agencies, to ensure our water
supply issues are being addressed.