Baw Baw Plateau - does water need treating?

[GazmanfromMelbourne]

Hi

I'm planning an overnight walk from Mt Erica carpark along AAWT in late April. Water seems to be in ready supply but no mention if it needs to be treated before consumption.

Thanks

[north-north-west]

I never have but I'm not particularly susceptible to potential water-borne problems. If in doubt, treat.
You do get a fair few walkers and campers up there.

[walkerchris77]

I always do. Rather take a few extra minutes than risk explosive diarrhea because some animal has decided to drop a load of poop just up stream from your water point. Better safe than sorry.

[walkon]

I've never treated the water up there with no problems at all.

Most people get gastro from other sources. I ask the people who treat the water in different places if they washed their hands after going into the bakery/cafes/service stations in their travels, not to mention if they washed their hands after going to the toilet. Invariably the answer is that they didn't but rest assured if they got gastro the water would be to blame.

[MickyB]

A few years ago I saw a dead roo or wallaby in a creek at the base of a waterfall. The smell was unbearable. Luckily we hadn't drunk any water from that creek but since then I have treated any water needed.

[GBW]

In four trips I've never treated the water and had no problems... but if in doubt...treat it.

[GazmanfromMelbourne]

Thanks all for the insights. As I'm originally from Adelaide the odd dead animal in the water supply is par for the course so I think I can chance it.

Cheers

[PedroArvy]

I try and take water from tiny creeks as they are closer to the source and less likely to be contaminated. I met a scientist on the John Muir Trail in the US who said even in giardia infested areas if you do this you should be OK. Not sure whether I believe that 100% but it keeps me reasonably confident about not treating anywhere in Aussie bush.

[Lophophaps]

I try and take water from tiny creeks as they are closer to the source and less likely to be contaminated. I met a scientist on the John Muir Trail in the US who said even in giardia infested areas if you do this you should be OK. Not sure whether I believe that 100% but it keeps me reasonably confident about not treating anywhere in Aussie bush.

That makes sense. I always get water as high as possible, above where people may camp. If you can do so, obtaining water between designated or probable camping areas is indicated. I take great care getting water from what I believe are good sources, and have not fallen ill. I've never had the need to treat or boil water.

[damoprz]

Since filters are so small + easy now we almost always treat. It is nice to not have to worry.