Authorities say they are fighting to fix the unusual taste and colour of Brisbane water. 

Residents in parts of Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan and Redland City have reported poor-tasting water in recent weeks, with online comments suggesting they find it to have a “muddy”, “mouldy”, “mildewy” and “bloody disgusting” taste.

Seqwater has now offered an explanation, saying the changes to tap water are due to an increase in naturally occurring, organic compounds in the raw water supply entering its Mount Crosby Water Treatment Plant.

The compounds are known as MIB (Methy-liso-borneol) and Geosmin. They are naturally occurring and are safe to drink, but can cause an earthy taste or smell in water.

“These compounds usually exist in low numbers, but recent weather conditions, including rainfall followed by warm temperatures, high levels of sunlight, and calm waters, have increased their levels,” Seqwater said in a statement. 

The authority is attempting to reduce the change as much as possible, by moving water around the SEQ Water Grid and making additional releases from Wivenhoe Dam.

The additional releases being made from Wivenhoe Dam are minor and flowing downstream to the Mount Crosby Water Treatment Plant, to help ‘turnover’ the raw water and lower the compound levels.

“The water will return to its usual taste and odour however it may take a few weeks, depending on weather conditions,” Seqwater says.

“While we appreciate the current taste and smell might not be what we’re used to, this event is a rare occurrence.

“Drinking water is constantly monitored and continues to meet the stringent health requirements of the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.”