Boil water alert update for Moe, Newborough, Yallourn North and surrounding towns
A boil water alert for Hernes Oak, Moe, Moe South, Newborough, Trafalgar East, Westbury, Yallourn, Yallourn Heights and Yallourn North issued by Gippsland Water on Saturday 15 February remains in place.
Managing director Sarah Cumming said the organisation was now in the final stages of flushing the network to eliminate any trace of non-fully treated water.
“While the Moe treatment plant is now producing water that fully meets the Australian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines, it takes time for every last trace of any non-fully treated water to completely pass through the system.
“Our team has been working hard to flush large amounts of this water into storm water drains so that we can restore a normal water supply as soon as possible.
“We’re also working closely with the Department of Health and Human Services to comprehensively test the network, with a view to hopefully having the alert lifted by the end of this week.”
Ms Cumming thanked customers in the impacted towns for their ongoing patience and understanding while the issue was being resolved.
“We know this is a frustrating situation for many in our community and we’re genuinely sorry for the inconvenience it’s caused.”
The boil water alert was issued as a precautionary measure after equipment at the Moe water treatment plant was damaged during storms on Friday 14 February.
“Electronic control systems at our Moe treatment plant were impacted by a power surge during the storms.
“As a result, some non-fully treated water entered our drinking water system.”
Customers in the impacted towns are advised to bring tap water to a rolling boil before drinking it, preparing beverages, washing and preparing food, preparing baby formula, brushing teeth or making ice.
To ensure water is safe for consumption:
- Heat water until a continuous and rapid stream of air-bubbles is produced from the bottom of a pan or kettle (kettles with automatic shut-off switches are suitable);
- Allow water to cool before use;
- Store water in a clean, closed container for later use; and
- Caution should be taken to prevent scalding from boiling water.
Unboiled water can be used for showering and bathing, flushing toilets, washing dishes and clothes and garden watering. Ensure water is not ingested whilst bathing. Where possible please minimise unessential water use.
Keep up to date on the situation by calling Gippsland Water on 1800 057 057 or visiting https://www.gippswater.com.au/alerts.