URGENT UPDATE: Mullumbimby residents will no longer rely on the Lavertys Gap weir for drinking water, as the supply has been switched to the Rous County Council mains system due to serious health concerns. This change, confirmed by the Byron Shire Council, will be in effect for at least one year and potentially much longer.
Officials announced that the decision stems from alarming findings regarding the ageing Mullumbimby Water Treatment Plant (WTP). A recent report revealed that the plant has failed to provide water that meets safety and quality standards, posing a significant risk to public health. As a result, the planned temporary shutdown of the local water treatment facility will now extend until at least October 2024.
The switch to the Rous supply, which serves the entire Shire, is critical for ensuring safe drinking water. This water primarily comes from the surface catchments of Rocky Creek Dam, Emigrant Creek Dam, and the Wilsons River. These sources feed into treatment plants that supply surrounding areas, including Ballina, Byron, Lismore, and Richmond Valley.
The urgent decision follows a thorough examination of the Mullumbimby WTP, which found that it consistently failed to meet required decontamination standards as outlined by NSW Health and the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. Specifically, the plant struggled to maintain acceptable turbidity levels, raising alarms about the safety of the water provided to residents.
“Until such issues are addressed, the WTP cannot be considered compliant with current microbial safety standards, and there remains a risk to public health during periods of poor filter performance,” the report’s authors stated. This serious assessment prompted the Water & Sewer Advisory Committee to recommend the emergency switch to the Rous connection.
At the August 21 meeting, the committee confirmed that the extended shutdown of the Mullumbimby WTP would proceed, with further discussions necessary with Rous County Council and NSW Health. This decision reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding public health.
Looking ahead, the estimated cost for further investigations into Mullumbimby’s water supply could reach approximately $580,000. This figure adds to the significant financial resources already allocated by the Council for examining water safety issues.
As the community grapples with this sudden shift, the implications for local health and safety are profound. Residents are urged to stay informed about ongoing developments as the Byron Shire Council works to establish a long-term water supply strategy.
Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving situation, as officials prioritize the health and safety of Mullumbimby residents.
