In the quiet suburbs of Wagga Wagga, a story of resilience and uncertainty unfolds. Tom Hughes, an 88-year-old resident, has become an unlikely champion for truth and transparency in the face of a silent menace: PFAS, or 'forever chemicals'. These substances, once used in firefighting foams at nearby military bases, have cast a long shadow over the community, raising concerns about health and environmental risks. As the sun sets over his garden, Mr. Hughes reflects on the journey that has led him to question the very air he breathes and the water he drinks.
PFAS, a group of around 14,000 chemicals, has been the subject of both state and federal inquiries. The Commonwealth's recent decision to sue 3M, the manufacturer of firefighting foam, for allegedly withholding information about its environmental effects is a significant development. But for Mr. Hughes, it's just another step in a long and winding road. He has written dozens of letters, seeking answers about the chemicals' potential links to his health issues, including prostate cancer and a testicular growth. In his eyes, the government has been more concerned with protecting its own interests than the well-being of its citizens.
The Kapooka Military Area and the nearby RAAF Base Wagga are the two known sources of PFAS contamination in the city. While Defence has conducted remediation work, including removing nearly 3,000 tonnes of soil and improving stormwater management, Mr. Hughes remains unconvinced. He points to the ongoing exposure of PFAS in groundwater, with levels above the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines detected in February 2025. The multi-agency governance group, including the Department of Defence, the Environment Protection Authority, NSW Health, and Riverina Water, has been working on a management plan, but Mr. Hughes is skeptical about its effectiveness.
Riverina Water, the local water utility, has increased its sampling in the bore field and assured the community that PFAS levels remain below the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. However, Mr. Hughes is not convinced. He argues that the government has a history of downplaying risks and that more needs to be done to protect the community. In his opinion, the proposed management plan is not enough, and further studies are necessary to understand the full extent of the contamination and its health impacts.
The story of PFAS in Wagga Wagga is a cautionary tale about the dangers of hidden threats and the importance of transparency. While the government and corporations may have their own interests at heart, it is the everyday citizens like Mr. Hughes who bear the brunt of the consequences. As he continues his quest for answers, he serves as a reminder that the fight for truth and justice is never truly over. In my opinion, the case of PFAS in Wagga Wagga highlights the need for a more proactive and transparent approach to environmental and health risks, especially in communities living in close proximity to military bases and industrial sites. The story of Mr. Hughes is a powerful reminder that the pursuit of knowledge and justice is a lifelong journey, and that the voices of the concerned and affected must always be heard.
