Cabonne Council is pleased to advise residents that approval has been received from NSW Health to commence fluoridation of the water supply from the Molong Water Treatment Plant, which services Molong, Cumnock and Yeoval.
Fluoridation will commence on Monday, 30 November, marking the completion of a significant project to improve drinking water quality and public health outcomes across the three communities.
The fluoridation system has been designed and constructed in accordance with the NSW Code of Practice for Fluoridation of Public Water Supplies and incorporates multiple safety measures to ensure fluoride levels remain within strict regulatory limits. Fluoride levels are continuously monitored throughout the treatment process, with automatic safeguards in place to prevent over-fluoridated water from entering the drinking water supply.
Testing undertaken in 2025 showed naturally occurring fluoride levels in the water supply of approximately 0.05 mg/L, well below the level recommended to support dental health. The new system will target a fluoride concentration of 1.0 mg/L, a level recognised by health authorities as safe and effective in reducing tooth decay and improving oral health outcomes across the community.
Residents who currently take fluoride tablets or supplements are encouraged to seek advice from their dentist, oral health professional or medical practitioner before fluoridation commences. Fluoride supplements are generally prescribed in areas where drinking water is not fluoridated, and individual advice may be required once the fluoridation program begins.
Council can also confirm that the Cumnock and Yeoval water supplies have now been officially declared potable, meaning the water meets Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and is safe for drinking, cooking and everyday household use.
The declaration follows several years of water quality improvements and monitoring, including the disinfection of reservoirs and water mains, routine microbiological testing, additional chlorination capability at local reservoirs and the installation of Dual Check Valves throughout both communities to protect the integrity of the water network.
Extensive physical, chemical and microbiological testing undertaken since 2021 has consistently demonstrated compliance with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines, providing confidence in the safety and quality of the water supply.
These milestones represent the culmination of significant investment in critical water infrastructure and ongoing collaboration with NSW Health and Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).
Council thanks residents for their patience and support throughout the project and looks forward to delivering the long-term benefits of safe, reliable and high-quality drinking water to Molong, Cumnock and Yeoval.
Residents seeking further information about water fluoridation can visit the NSW Health website or contact Council's Utilities team. Those with specific health-related questions are encouraged to speak with their dental health professional.
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