PFAS contamination in Wagga Wagga's drinking water has been a persistent concern for residents, particularly those living near military sites. Tom Hughes, an 88-year-old resident, has been actively seeking information about 'forever chemicals' used in firefighting foams, despite facing challenges in obtaining answers from local, state, and federal authorities. The Kapooka Military Area and RAAF Base Wagga are known PFAS source locations, with the former being a major focus due to its proximity to Mr. Hughes' property.
The Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessment conducted by Defence in 2021 concluded that consuming home-grown fruits and vegetables from the base posed a low and acceptable risk. However, Mr. Hughes, who lives near Kapooka Creek, remains wary of potential health risks, including prostate cancer and a testicular growth, which he attributes to the chemicals. The Commonwealth's decision to sue 3M for withholding information about the environmental effects of PFAS further highlights the ongoing concerns.
Despite the efforts of the multi-agency governance group, including the Department of Defence, Environment Protection Authority, NSW Health, and Riverina Water, the management plan was abandoned due to its inadequacy. Riverina Water's Engineering Director, Troy Van Berkel, emphasizes the importance of transparency and communication with the community, ensuring that the risks are understood and managed effectively. The company has increased sampling in the bore field, and PFAS levels have remained below the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.
However, the need for further studies is evident, as Professor Denis O'Carroll from the University of NSW's School of Civil and Environmental Engineering points out. PFAS, a group of 14,000 chemicals, is pervasive and widely used in various products. The challenge lies in understanding the health impacts and finding ways to prevent exposure, especially in drinking water. The Department of Defence's ongoing monitoring and remediation efforts, including soil removal and improved stormwater management, are crucial steps towards ensuring the safety of Wagga Wagga's drinking water supply.
Despite the progress, Mr. Hughes' quest for answers continues, reflecting the ongoing challenges faced by residents in dealing with PFAS contamination. The lack of immediate action and the feeling of being treated as a low-priority member of the public have fueled his determination to seek the necessary information. As the search for answers persists, the community's concerns remain, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and transparency in addressing PFAS contamination.
