The temporary changes to tap water are due to an increase in naturally occurring, organic compounds in the raw water supply entering our Mount Crosby Water Treatment Plant.
The compounds are known as MIB (Methy-liso-borneol) and Geosmin. They are naturally occurring and are safe to drink, but can cause an earthy taste or smell in water.
These compounds usually exist in low numbers, but recent weather conditions, including rainfall followed by warm temperatures, high levels of sunlight, and calm waters, have increased their levels.
Both MIB and Geosmin are safe to drink and are not harmful.
Seqwater is taking steps to reduce the change as much as possible, by moving water around the SEQ Water Grid and making additional releases from Wivenhoe Dam.
The additional releases being made from Wivenhoe Dam are minor and flowing downstream to the Mount Crosby Water Treatment Plant, to help ‘turnover’ the raw water and lower the compound levels.
The water will return to its usual taste and odour however it may take a few weeks, depending on weather conditions.
While we appreciate the current taste and smell might not be what we’re used to, this event is a rare occurrence.
Drinking water is constantly monitored and continues to meet the stringent health requirements of the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.
We’re working closely with our water supply partners, Urban Utilities, Logan City Council and Redland City Council, so we can keep people updated.
If you have any questions regarding your water supply, please contact Urban Utilities (if you live in Brisbane or Ipswich), Logan City Council (if you live in Logan) or Redland City Council (if you live in Redland City).
