Warwick Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Southern Downs Regional Council is the utility serving Warwick, Queensland, with its primary water supply drawn from Connolly Dam on the Condamine River. This reservoir is part of the Condamine-Balonne watershed. Water services also occasionally tap Glengallan Creek and groundwater bores. All sourced water undergoes treatment at the Warwick Water Treatment Plant, utilizing coagulation, filtration, and chlorination before it reaches the approximately 12,000 residents in Warwick and neighboring communities.

The geology around Warwick is a mix of Mesozoic sandstones and Tertiary volcanics, part of the Clarence-Moreton Basin. These sedimentary formations, like the Precipice Sandstone and Evergreen Formation, are low in limestone. Instead, they tend to leach minerals such as manganese into the surface water, particularly when the Connolly Dam levels are low. This geological makeup results in water that is moderately mineralized, with varying levels of turbidity and color, but generally not hard due to a lack of calcium or magnesium carbonates.

Homeowners in Warwick might notice a slight tendency for limescale buildup in appliances like kettles and dishwashers, and on showerheads. Manganese can sometimes cause staining on fixtures, especially after periods of low rainfall when its concentration in the raw water increases. However, compared to regions with very hard water, the impact on laundry and heating systems is generally less pronounced. Simple cleaning with vinegar can manage scale, and annual appliance checks are recommended. Whole-house water softeners are an option for those who prefer softer water for aesthetic reasons.