THE contentious fluoridation of Fraser Coast drinking water remains on hold with long overdue water treatment equipment still on order.

Wide Bay Water said a dosing plant, used to add exact amounts of fluoride to our drinking water, was expected to be delivered next month and would be up and running soon after.

But the majority of Fraser Coast locals are not happy with mandatory fluoridation of household water.

A recent online Chronicle poll found 80% of respondents against the chemical being added to our supply.

A government spokesperson said that under the 2008 Water Fluoridation Act, fluoride must be added to water schemes supplying potable water to more than 1000 people.

This means smaller towns such as Tiaro will remain fluoride-free.

Local authorities are legally responsible for the installation and management of water fluoridation plants in Queensland.

A Wide Bay Water spokesman said the organisation followed the “fluoride code of practice”, under which levels of the chemical were monitored in raw water supplies with extra added as required.

Treatment manager James Castle said WBW would be keeping a close eye on dose rates with the latest computerised monitoring equipment.

He said the fluoridation rate would fall within set government guidelines of 0.7 and 0.9 mg/litre.

WBW advises residents with fluoride concerns to visit the Queensland Health website www.health.qld.gov/fluoride

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