A HUNTLY training centre for firefighters is among a number across the state which will be investigated by environmental authorities for potential contamination.
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The Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) is coordinating an investigation into potential environmental contamination resulting from firefighting chemicals used in the past by the Country Fire Authority (CFA) at its regional training centres across Victoria.
The EPA has established a working group from across government to oversee testing of the waterways, drains and groundwater that could be affected by contamination, which may have extended beyond the boundary of training facilities.
Perflurooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is the key contaminant being investigated. PFOS was a common ingredient of firefighting foams in the past, but has not been used since 2007.
EPA executive director of Regional Services Damian Wells advised that the risk to people’s health and the environment from the contamination is very low and that reticulated drinking water supplies in surrounding communities tested by water corporations are safe to drink.
“However, EPA will ensure the delivery of a comprehensive testing program in order to clarify the nature and extent of any potential contamination that may have gone beyond the boundary of the training centres,” Mr Wells said.
“If any contamination is detected around training facilities, landholders who may be affected will be contacted directly.”
The environmental assessments are occurring at six of CFA’s regional training centres across Victoria.
These are located at: Penshurst, Wangaratta, Longerenong, Huntly, Fulham and Bangholme.
Site visits have been undertaken by EPA and CFA at all six locations.
All local water authorities and key stakeholders including local governments and catchment management authorities have been visited and advised of environmental assessments completed to date.
The EPA said it would also ensure the community is kept well informed about the testing regime and results, and people are welcome to call the EPA hotline on 1300 372 842 (1300 EPA VIC) or visit its dedicated web page for further information.
The website will be updated regularly as testing progresses.
