Defence department presents investigation into Oakey water contamination

THE Defence Department has told Oakey residents there are no health impacts from its leaked chemicals, but they should still not drink or use local water.
The department has presented its final investigation into the health and environmental impacts of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on residents surrounding the Army Aviation Centre in Oakey.
“There’s no conclusive evidence of adverse human health impact from PFAS,” Defence Department spokesman Chris Birrer told reporters today.
“This is a never-ending source of stress.
We don’t know when it will end,” Ms Spencer told AAP.
Ms Spencer, a racehorse trainer, bought a property in Oakey five years ago, only to find out later it was contaminated.
She is one of the hundreds seeking compensation in a class action against the department for emotional and financial stress.
“They are never going to clean it enough,” Ms Spencer said.
“People are on their last legs.
What are you supposed to do?” The department has promised to improve drainage at the army facility, has installed a water filtration plant, and is working with Toowoomba Regional Council to extend the water system.

Learn More