Shallow water near Bilbul, and what it means for a household bore

What the report says

How shallow is the water near Bilbul?

Less than 1 m from the surface near Murrami, Widgelli/Bilbul, and south and west of Hanwood, at the highest watertables the report records. It is a May 2005 figure for a wide area, so it is a guide to the district, not a depth for any property.

Why is it so close to the surface?

The report says that largely because of irrigation practices, the groundwater tables in many locations are now close to the surface. It adds that the groundwater in the irrigation area in general is highly saline.

What it changes for a household bore

Does shallow water make a bore simpler?

Not on paper. A water supply work approval is still needed before any drilling, and the 2016 NSW fact sheet says the depth of a new bore depends on the geology beneath the property, which a district figure does not replace.

Why does the month matter?

The same report says groundwater tables tend to be higher in March than in September, unless winter rainfall is high. A depth-to-water or pumping-test result without its month is hard to use, so ask for the date on every reading.

What it cannot tell you

Is the water at my property salty?

The report cannot say. It is regional and older than a year. NSW Health advises that water used for drinking, cooking and personal hygiene should be tested and treated, and only a test of the actual water answers the question for your address.