During routine water sampling, McKinlay Shire Council detected Legionella pneumophila in the drinking water supply in Julia Creek, McKinlay, Kynuna and Nelia. A fact sheet has been prepared with the assistance of the Townsville Public Health Unit to assist susceptible people with ways to reduce exposure to Legionella at home.
Naturally Occurring Fluoride in Julia Creek’s drinking water supply
McKinlay Shire Council advises that Julia Creek’s drinking water supply contain about 3 milligrams per litre of naturally occurring fluoride. This is considerably higher than the recommended limit in the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines where they recommend an upper limit of 1.5 milligrams per litre (or parts per million) of fluoride in drinking water. This fluoride fact sheet has information relating to the background and management of fluoride in your drinking water.
Testing in February 2023 has come back with fluoride results in excess of over 3 milligrams per litre. The community will continue to be updated should future results read over 3 milligrams per litre Fluoride Comparison Data 2018-2023.
Drinking Water Quality Management Plan Audit Report
As per Section 108 of the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008 McKinlay Shire Council is required to conduct an audit of its approved DWQMP. The next scheduled audit is to be conducted by 12 March 2025. Copies of previous audit reports can be obtained by contacting Council on 07 4746 7166.
Water
Council owns and operates three articulated water systems at Julia Creek, Kynuna and McKinlay. All water is sourced from the Great Artesian Basin and complies with Australian drinking water guidelines.
Sewerage
Julia Creek is the only town in the shire with an articulated sewerage system. Other towns in the shire use septic systems.
Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008
The following is circulated as part of Council’s general interest in distributing information about Councils Water and Sewerage documents to ensure Council comply with Section 575A of the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008..
- Customer Service Standard (PDF)
- DWQMP Annual Report (PDF)
- Performance Report2021-22 (XLS)