Water analysis

Council's Mt Kynoch Water Treatment Plant houses a state of the art water analysis facility.

Laboratory services offer a wide range of analytical and microbiological testing services for water, wastewater and environmental samples. The laboratory is a NATA (National Association of Testing Authorities) accredited provider and tests are performed in accordance with NHMRC (National Health and Medical Research Council) guidelines.

Testing is available on a fee-for-service basis with a current fee schedule available by contacting the laboratory or by visiting the Toowoomba Regional Council website.

Water tests require sample containers suitable for the analyses requested. These can be obtained free of charge also by contacting the laboratory.

Samples are accepted until 2.30pm Monday to Friday but certain tests are set up on particular days of the week, so it is best to discuss testing requirements with the laboratory prior to submission of samples. Office Hours are 8am to 4pm.

Laboratory location: Mt Kynoch Water Treatment Plant, Shuttlewood Court, Toowoomba Qld 4350

How do I know what test I need? 

You need to know what you want to use the water for ie do you want to drink the water or use it for stock / irrigation?

• If the water is from a rainwater tank, you may want to consider a Standard Microbiological Test (also known as a Standard Drinking Water Bacteriological Test).
• If the water is from a bore, you may want to consider a Standard Chemical Analysis.

These are routine water tests, however, we have more to offer depending on your requirements.

How long till I get my results back?

For standard tests we try to work to a 10 day turnaround. This time can be extended due to increased workloads or circumstances beyond our control. Receiving your report may take longer if you don't have access to email or fax, as postage can add to delays. If your results have not been received within the 10 day turnaround, feel free to call us and we can provide you with details.

I don't understand my report, what does it mean?

We test against the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines issued by the National Health and Medical Research Council. If a result does not meet the guidelines, this will be advised at the end of the report. If you do have any enquiries regarding the results feel free to call us. Alternatively, if you wish to find a way to improve or control your water quality, we recommend calling one of the many water treatment specialists in the White Pages.

Can I use any bottle?

No. It is best to call us before you collect the water for testing, as there are a few important things to know before you take the sample. Generally a Standard Chemical Analysis will need 1 litre of water in a bottle that has only had water in it previously. Fresh samples less than 4 hrs old are best. For all other sample bottles please call us, or read our "Do you have the correct sample bottle" sheet.

I think I may have Giardia in my water, where do I go for information?

Toowoomba Regional Council does not conduct testing in their laboratory. Please refer to the NHMRC guidelines (www.nhmrc.gov.au) for information. (Press CTRL key on your keyboard and click on the website address.)

I would like to recycle water, where do I go for more information on the guidelines?

Please refer to the DERM website  for information.

Contact us