Boil Water Alert Issued for Rowena Village

Published on 18 April 2024

As of the 26th April 2024 this alert has been lifted.

The Walgett Shire Council wishes to inform residents of Rowena that E-Coli has been detected in a recent water sample, indicating contamination of the water supply. A boil water alert has been issued effective immediately.

Consuming water contaminated with E-Coli can cause gastrointestinal illnesses.

Residents are strongly advised to boil all water intended for consumption. Water should be brought to a rolling boil, allowed to cool and stored in a clean, lidded container before refrigeration.

Boiled or bottled water should be utilised for drinking, cooking, washing uncooked foods (such as seafood or salads), making ice, personal hygiene, pet drinking water, handwashing, teeth cleaning, gargling, face washing of young children and washing toys and children’s utensils. Dishes should be washed either in hot soapy water or in a dishwasher. Children are encouraged to bring boiled or bottled water to school until further notice.

Walgett Shire Council are actively addressing the issue with chlorination of the reservoir, flushing of the main water systems across the village and replacement of the reservoir. Additional testing will also take place early next week and the community will be notified of the outcome. 

We appreciate the community’s cooperation and understanding as we work to resolve this matter.

 For further information please contact (02) 6828 6100 or admin@walgett.nsw.gov.au