In the heart of Dalby, where families thrive and community spirit is strong, there is an unnerving issue that needs urgent attention - the fluoridation of our drinking water. As a concerned resident, I've become increasingly aware and disturbed by the practice of adding fluoride to our water supply. It's a measure that's often touted for its supposed health benefits, but recent evidence suggests otherwise.

For years, we've been told that fluoride in drinking water is essential for maintaining dental health, particularly in children. However, this claim does not hold up under scrutiny. Numerous scientific studies have begun to question the efficacy of fluoride for dental health, pointing instead to other methods that don't involve potential risks to the population. The Gympie Regional Council, a neighbour to the Western Downs Regional Council, serves as a compelling example - they have chosen to keep fluoride out of their water, prioritising the wellbeing of their residents over outdated practices.

Fluoride has been linked to several negative health effects, including potential impacts on brain development and thyroid function. A 2019 study published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics found an association between fluoride exposure and a decrease in IQ among children. Moreover, the National Research Council in the United States has identified that even low levels of fluoride could be potentially detrimental, affecting the endocrine system and contributing to a host of health problems.

I urge the Western Downs Regional Council to reconsider their stance on this issue. The residents of Dalby deserve to have a choice about what additives are present in their water supply. By halting the fluoridation process, council can ensure that they are prioritising the long-term health and safety of the community.

It's time to take action and make a change for the better. Please lend your support and voice to this cause. Sign this petition to urge the Western Downs Regional Council to stop injecting fluoride into our drinking water. Together, we can achieve a healthier future for Dalby.