The pumps throughout the district are tested fortnightly by the Central Highlands Water laboratory. If the levels read above zero, Hepburn Shire Council closes the affected pumps until a negative reading is returned.

The same pump was also affected in November last year.

At that time, the council erected a sign stating rainwater runoff had mixed with the spring water causing temporary contamination, and advising visitors not to drink the water.

This week, a sign has been erected stating the pump was closed “until further notice”.

A council spokesperson confirmed the contamination was most likely due to recent rainfall, with water flows from across the district making it difficult to pinpoint where the bacteria was coming from.

“Council promotes public safety through the regular testing of fresh water and mineral springs on Council managed land.  All springs (both mineral water springs and the East Street/Grant Street fresh water spring) located on public land are regularly tested,” the spokesperson said.

“The causes of a contaminant entering this water source are varied and could originate several kilometres away...hence (it is) extremely difficult to locate the source.”

The spokesperson said the pump would be re-opened once tests returned clear.

With the source unknown, the contamination could potentially be coming from private or public land.

The springs are considered a “secret” of locals and not frequently used by tourists.

E. coli is a bacteria found in the intestines of humans and animals, found naturally in both excrement and soil.

Contamination in water bodies typically results from farm runoff, septic effluent or sewerage discharge, or infiltration of animal fecal matter.

Ingestion of E. coli-contaminated water can lead to digestive system illnesses, nausea, diarrhea, or in extreme cases death.