Water supply interruptions

Sometimes, Council will need to shut off the water flow to a section of our water main network. This might be for  emergency repair works, scheduled maintenance or improvement works to the water distribution system.

Depending on the water mains in the area, the water supply interruption could affect residents in just one small cul-de sac street or an entire village or area.

Wherever possible, Council will make every effort to avoid or minimise any inconvenience to residents.

If you're experiencing an water supply interruption, check the Council Facebook page for details or give our team a call on (02) 6648 4000. Chances are it's a known issue and you can expect supply to be returned shortly.

Before the water is turned off

In cases of scheduled water main maintenance or improvement works, Council will give those residents likely to be affected by the water supply interruption written notification 24 hours in advance of the water being turned off.

In cases of unplanned water main or water service repair works, Council is unable to give any notice to those residents likely to be affected by the water supply interruption that the water is going to be turned off.

After the water is turned back on

Council will flush the water mains in the area after the scheduled maintenance, improvement works or emergency repair work is completed in an effort to ensure clean drinking water is available to residents, however affected residents may experience some issues with the water supply:

• Dirty water - dirt particles can get into the water main during the works process, which can make the water in your house appear brown or coloured. You can turn on the tap at your water meter and run water out of the tap until the water runs clear. You may also need to run the taps in your house until the water runs clear from those as well.  If the dirty water problem persists, please contact Council.
• Milky/cloudy water - air can make it's way into the water main during the repair works, which can make the water in your house appear white or milky. If you pour a glass of water and sit the glass on a table for a few minutes, you will see that the water starts to clear from the bottom up - as the tiny air bubbles make their way to the surface. If you leave the glass long enough, eventually all the air bubbles will dissipate and the whole glass of water will look clear again. These air bubbles have no adverse health effects on drinking water quality.

The same as for dirty water, you can turn on the tap at your water meter and run water out of the tap until the water runs clear. You can also run the taps in your house until the water runs clear from those as well.

Air in the water mains should clear quickly, but if the problem persists at your property, please contact Council (02) 6648 4000.