It's unclear when normal water service will resume for the Walgett village of Rowena as state health authorities mull over water samples.   

Walgett Shire has allocated around $20 000 to replace one of the village's two water reservoirs following a boil water alert issued 18 April after E-Coli was detected in the water system.  

Drinking water contaminated with E-Coli can cause gastro-intestinal issues including diarrhea and stomach pain.  

The shire's Director of Infrastructure and Compliance, Kazi Muhmud, said while the cause of the contamination is unknown at this stage, rodents and damage to one of the reservoirs could have played a part. 

"The lid of the tank is damaged," Mr Muhmud said. 

"We haven't found anything that indicated that there was vermin or dead animals in the water supply, but the theory is that the bird poo may have caused it. 

"Rather than fixing these small tanks, it's best to get a brand new one so we address any issue it may have." 

Mr Muhmud said his council will seek quotes for contractors to install a new tank.  

He also said new water samples are being taken regularly throughout the week for testing in Sydney.  

"We are pumping up the chlorine to kill the bugs and flushing the system. That is the typical course of action." 

"If there is no E-Coli present, that's when NSW Health will decide whether to lift the alert or not." 

Mr Muhmud said Walgett Shire had not yet received test results when contacted around 11:30am today.  

The 2021 national census counted 171 people in Rowena. Walgett Shire advises residents to boil all water intended for consumption.  

"Water should be brought to a rolling boil, allowed to cool and stored in a clean, lidded container before refrigeration," an 18 April release said on the on the council's website. 

"Boiled or bottled water should be utilised for drinking, cooking, washing uncooked foods (such as seafood or salads), making ice, personal hygiene, pet drinking water, handwashing, teeth cleaning, gargling, face washing of young children and washing toys and children’s utensils. 

"Dishes should be washed either in hot soapy water or in a dishwasher. Children are encouraged to bring boiled or bottled water to school until further notice."