Murrumbidgee Council has today moved to reassure residents that recent odour issues and reports of brown water in Darlington Point are being addressed through a combination of immediate and long-term measures.
Mayor, Ruth McRae OAM said Council was aware of the strong sewage odour affecting parts of the town and is taking active steps to resolve the problem.
“We know the smell has been unpleasant and disruptive for residents, and we apologise for the inconvenience while we complete these essential repairs,” the Mayor said.
“At the Darlington Point Sewerage Treatment Plant, there are two aerators that are critical to the treatment process,” she said.
“Unfortunately, both aerators, also called rotors, malfunctioned over recent months and required a complete overhaul. One has already been replaced, and the second is expected to be reinstalled in the coming weeks.”
While the second rotor is out of action, Council has been manually running the current aerator for longer periods and introducing good bacteria into the system to maintain treatment performance.
“When the wind blows from the north toward town, the odour can carry into residential areas. We appreciate everyone’s patience while the repairs are finalised. Once both aerators are operating again, the odour will significantly reduce,” the Mayor said.
The first aerator failed in July and the second in October. Council says the main challenge has been the time required for specialised repairs, which must be undertaken offsite.
Council has confirmed there are no public health risks associated with the odour.
Mayor McRae said the Council was also aware of brown or discoloured tap water in parts of Darlington Point, particularly during warmer weather.
“We understand how frustrating it is to experience brown or discoloured water and we apologise to residents affected,” she said.
“This is a seasonal issue that happens when natural minerals and scale inside older pipes loosen due to changes in temperature and water chemistry.”
Residents are encouraged to run a tap in their backyard until the water runs clear. If the problem continues, they can contact the Council for assistance.
“We know discoloured water is frustrating and we’re taking both short and long-term steps to improve water quality,” Mayor McRae said.
“Our drinking water remains safe to use and consume.
“We conduct regular, rigorous testing at our water sources, treatment plants, and throughout the network to ensure compliance with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. If there were ever any safety concerns, the community would be notified immediately,” she said.
