Thoughts from your WA President - Australian Water Association

Event ReportWater Future Forum: Boom or Bust?Management of Water in a World of ExtremesOn Thursday 24 th May a diverse group of passionate young water professionals met andmingled over an early afternoon tea and coffee. This marked the start of the second WaterFuture Forum held by the WA YWP. This year’s half day conference, sponsored by IA Group,focussed on the theme Boom or Bust? Management of Water in a World of Extremes.The theme encapsulated the challenges that Western Australia has faced in recent year:droughts and flooding rains; population growth; mining booms; and the global financial crisis.The Water Industry is adapting to these changes, and the afternoon’s presenters explored howboom and bust affects their part of the industry.Jeff Strahan, Chief Operating Officer of Peel Water, opened with a discussion on the driversand success factors of the development of Peel Water, the first privately owned licensed waterutility to offer wide-scale water services for broad-acre land developments. Jeff spoke about thecomplex journey from identifying an opportunity to do things differently, to gaining the licensefrom the Economic Regulatory Authority and building the potable water treatment plant andrecycled water treatment plant for the Point Grey urban development.From water supply for a development to water sources for Perth, Dr Jon-Philippe Pigois, aHydrogeologist at the Department of Water, spoke on his work to improve management ofPerth’s groundwater resources by gaining a better understanding of the hydraulic window in theDr JP Pigois illustrates the hydraulicnorthern Gnangara Mound. Dr JP trialled new measuring techniques which led to a differentwindow on the Gnangara Mound interpretation of the local hydrogeology. This provided updated information for the PerthRegional Aquifer Modelling System (PRAMS), which is used to make management decisions onaquifer use. A key factor in the success of this work was the bringing together of a range of universities, government departments and utilities toquantify and better manage our precious groundwater resource.Matt Bowman, Operations Support Manager at the Water Corporation, was next up, outlining the Drinking Water Quality response to theGascoyne River Floods in December 2010 and January 2011. The floods presented numerous challenges for the supply of safe drinking water toWater Corporation customers in Carnarvon and Gascoyne Junction. Matt outlined the quick operational response and the dedication ofCorporation staff to maintaining a quality drinking water supply to customers. In a demonstration of water underpinning our quality of life, most ofus only felt the impact of these floods with the sky-rocketing banana prices!When you mention Boom or Bust, many people think about the mining industry. Simon Windsor from FMG presented on the optimisation ofwater infrastructure in a complex and fast-changing mining environment. In this instance, the challenge was too much water, and thepresentation focussed on managing the dewatering process at their Cloudbreak mine, using numerical modelling and other techniques. Simondemonstrated the huge complexity of planning and optimising infrastructure, all within the constraints of available land, approvals, and theongoing development of the mining operation.Dr Misty-Lee Palmer, Project Officer at the National Centre of Excellence in Desalination Australia, outlined the diverse range of projects beingfunded through the Centre. Misty highlighted that the world’s largest desalination plant was built in Coolgardie over 100 years ago, but that themanagement of desalination as a water resource is relatively recent. With the recent construction and current expansion of the SouthernSeawater Desalination Plant, desalination is a technology that is here to stay. The Centre, through funding of projects, hopes ultimately todevelop novel or adapt existing technologies to better service the water industry.From desalination plants to energy, Sheryl Mitchell, Project Officer Energy at the Water Corporation, introduced us to the challenges of theWater Energy Nexus. Desalination is known for having higher energy usage than more climate dependent water sources such as dams. Otherwater sources have varying energy requirements, as does the distribution of water, which requires energy for pumping. So how do we factorenergy usage into our water source and supply planning? Sheryl introduced us to the complex interdependencies of water and power andprovided some insights into planning for the future.The afternoon was a fantastic opportunity for these young water professionals to showcase their contribution to the water industry, and for allattendees to share knowledge and build connections throughout the industry. The event continues to be a success and now forms a key part ofthe YWP annual calendar. We hope to see all AWA members at the Forum and other YWP events in future.Karina Congdon, WA YWP PresidentJul-122

Event ReportWater and Unconventional GasThursday June 21 saw 95 delegates gather at Curtin University’s Resources andChemistry Precinct for a half-day seminar discussing the impact of exploration andextraction of unconventional gas on Western Australia’s water resources. Hosted byChemCentre, this is the second event jointly organised by the WA branches of theRACI Health Safety and Environment Group, and the Australian Water Association.The keen interest in this topic in WA was reflected in the wide range of people whoattended, including regulators, environmental consultants, unconventional gasproponents, researchers, and members of the legal profession and parliament.,The first speaker session acted as a primer for unconventional gas, with talks fromBill Tinapple (Department of Mines and Petroleum), Cameron Manifold (AWT), andChris Hertle (GHD) providing an excellent overview of unconventional gas in Australiaand overseas, particularly focusing on current exploration licenses in WA.Particular emphasis was placed on the differences between coal seam gas, which isprevalent in Queensland, and shale and ‘tight’ gas, which make up the reservesfound in WA. International studies have indicated that WA has the 5 th largest reserveof shale gas in the world, and so we can expect further exploration and development,particularly as diversity in energy resources becomes increasingly important.Jim Campbell (SKM) touched on the hydrogeological challenges associated withextracting unconventional gas. While WA’s shale gas is several kilometres belowfreshwater aquifers, contamination is still possible through well corrosion, and wellconstruction and integrity is a key issue both during and after operation.Barbara Campany’s (GHD) presentation on the importance of communityengagement was a timely reminder that many people remain concerned aboutunconventional gas, and that proponents must play an active role in public educationto ensure social acceptance.The second session focused the discussion towards the use and protection of waterresources. The key message from Marnie Leyborne (Department of Water), RichardTheobald (Department of Health) and Andrew Bath (Water Corporation) was thatprotecting current and future drinking water resources is of paramount importance,as once a contamination event occurs, the water resource is effectively lost.Key issues discussed included the volume of water required to run the drillingoperation, treatment and disposal of water that is extracted during operation, anduse of potentially harmful chemicals during hydraulic fracturing. While many of thechemicals used during drilling and ‘fraccing’ are already regulated for household use,this does not necessarily mean they are suitable for use in sensitive environmentsand near drinking water resources, and each chemical will require identificationbefore approval will be given.Heather Chapman (Griffith University) reported on current research gaps in theunconventional gas sector, and indicated that much more collaboration betweenindustry and researchers is required to demonstrate the safety of both drilling andoperation. Finally Ivan Reolon (Aquatec Maxcon) outlined some of the challenges intreating saline waters in very remote locations, providing examples of treatmentplants already in operation in Queensland. While there are numerous options forwater reuse, including irrigation, discharge to the environment, and industry use, onefactor that still needs to be addressed is the disposal of salt removed during watertreatment. Further development in treatment and purification is required beforewaste product may also have commercial value.After the presentations, many of the attendees remained to network over lunch.HSEG and AWA would like to thank all the speakers for their very informative andthought provoking talks. This seminar was one of the first opportunities for WAchemistry and water professionals to learn more about unconventional gas but wepredict that it will not be the last seminar on the subject!Kathryn Linge, Chair HSEG, RACITrility GroupAnnual WAWaterAid BallThe 2012 Trility Group Annual WAWaterAid Ball will bring togethermembers of Western Australia’scommunity and water industry for anight of fun and philanthropy. Fundsraised through your involvement inthe Annual WA WaterAid Ball willsupport projects that provide safedrinking water and improvedsanitaon to thousands of peoplethroughout the world’s poorestcountries, including Papua NewGuinea and East Timor.When: Friday 31 August 2012Venue: Burswood Hotel, PerthDress: Black e/CocktailPrice: $225 per person Tables of 10MC Tod Johnston.Entertainment by Peace Love & AllThat Stuff.Charity aucon of unique items andartworks.To reserve a table or become a valuedsponsor of the 2012 Annual WAWaterAid ball please register by COBFriday 17th August 2012. Enquirieswelcome on 0407 464 715.Glam up and treat yourself to a nightof fun and philanthropy at this years'2012 Trility Group Annual WAWaterAid Ball. Groove the night away,take home a collector's item from thecharity aucon and support a fabulouscause.For more informaon about WaterAidvisit www.wateraid.org.auJul-123

SeminarAdvancing Biofilters in Western Australia - Research SeminarWhen: 9am - 3.45pm, Tuesday 31 July 2012Where: The State Library Theatre, Ground Floor State Library, 25 Francis Street, Perth Cultural CentreBiofilters are used as part of a stormwater management system to improve water quality, reduce runoff volumes,mitigate urban heat, improve urban amenity and enhance urban ecosystems. Biofilters are becoming more widelyused due to their flexibility in terms of size, location, configuration and appearance, as well as the benefits theyprovide.Biofilters typically consist of a vegetated swale or basin overlaying a porous filter medium. The choice of media andplant species has a major impact on the nutrient removal performance of biofilters to the extent that poor design andincorrect implementation can result in these systems becoming a source of nutrients rather than a managementsolution.The use of biofilters in Western Australia is relatively new and designs are largely based on eastern states practice.However recent research by Monash University and the University of Western Australia is being undertaken undersouth-west climatic conditions, using WA plant species and local supplies of filter media. This research is thereforeaimed at addressing the knowledge gaps currently limiting the adoption of biofilters in WA.This research work builds on research undertaken by the Facility for Advancing Water Biofiltration (FAWB) at MonashUniversity during 2005-2009 which established a methodology for improving stormwater quality through filtration bybiologically influenced media. The Adoption Guidelines for Stormwater Biofiltration Systems (FAWB 2009) weredeveloped to facilitate application of FAWB’s research findings in practice.Please note the closing date for registration is Friday 20 July, 2012.http://www.newwaterways.org.au/files/files/189_Advancing_biofilters_in_WA_-_Research_seminar.pdfJul-127

NoticesNominations open forWA Water AwardsWater Minister Bill Marmion has called fornominations in the 2012 Australian WaterAssociation WA Water Awards, whichrecognise significant contributions madeby organisations and individuals to watermanagement in Western Australia.“Western Australia is at the forefront ofwater innovation and the WA WaterAwards provide an excellent opportunityto highlight the outstanding work beingdone to ensure the sustainability of ourState’s precious water resources,” MrMarmion said.“I encourage individuals, businesses,schools and other organisations tonominate themselves or others forachievement in areas such as watermanagement, innovation, conservationand efficiency.”The awards are organised by theAustralian Water Association andpresented by the Department of Waterand the Water Corporation.Nominations close on Friday September7, 2012 and winners will be announced ata gala dinner on Friday November 23,2012.To find out more about the WA WaterAwards or to download a nomination kit,go to websitehttp://www.awa.asn.au/awards/waJul-128

NewsThe WA Branch of the Australian Water Association invites you to:WA Awards Showcase:Building successful submissionsThursday 2 August from 5.30pmFeaturing Past Winners & Key SponsorsLocationBelleVue Lounge Level 3 Perth Convention Exhibition CentreAgenda 5.15pm Arrival and Registration5.30pm Presentations6.15pm RefreshmentsAbstractRegistration FeesConsidering applying for the 2012 WA Water Awards?Receiving a prestigious AWA WA Water Award is the pinnacle of recognition for innovation andexcellence in Western Australia’s water industry.This session in the BelleVue Lounge at the Perth Convention & ExhibitionCentre provides a unique opportunity to hear from past winners and judgesof the Awards, to gain in insight on how to put together a successfulsubmission and how to stand out from the crowd.You will also be able to meet the sponsors of the event and network withsenior industry colleagues.Some of the areas to be covered include:• An overview of the 2012 Awards categories and the criteria• How putting together your entry can be an opportunity to assess your project and it'soutcomes against external criteria;• Strategies to harness support in the entry process and identify the strengths and uniquequalities of your project;• Hear useful tips from past winners• A judge's viewpoint - what they look forAttendance at this session is FREE, however registration is essentialEnquiries Cath Miller Phone: 0416 289 075 Email: wabranch@awa.asn.au Fax: 08 6210 1675RSVPREGISTRATIONWAS812Delegate Details(please detach thissection if faxingback)Sponsorsto Cath Miller wabranch@awa.asn.au (Numbers required for catering)Name (S)PositionOrganisationTelephone(w) Mobile FacsimileEmailSpecial/Diet Requirements:,Jul-129

WA Branch CommitteeNomineeCommittee Nomination Form 2012/2013Nominators must be financial membersOrganisationEmail Phone MobileI wish to nominate for the position of: President Vice-President Treasurer Portfolio Leader General Committee (please circle)Portfolios have been re-structured to align with the AWA Strategic Overview 2012-15, please indicate your preferences below (1,2,3) forportfolio allocation ENGAGE - Engaging members with valued services (events, newsletter, & website) REPRESENT - Representing the sector (policy, media, advocacy, WA Water Awards) EXTEND - Extending our reach (membership, marketing) BUILD - Building knowledge & skills (Water Week Conference, Undergraduate Water Prize) COLLABORATE - Working together (finance, federal affairs, strategic direction) OZWATER 13 YOUNG WATER PROFESSIONALSPlease note: Term of office for Committee members is now one year (President is for two years). Members have the option to re-nominatefor the committee at the end of that term. Members can resign from the Committee before the completion of the term by submitting aresignation letter to the President. Portfolio Leaders will have served on the General Committee for at least two years and will beencouraged to serve two years in the role. To be considered for President, you should have led a Portfolio for at least two years and held therole of Vice-President for at least one. You will need to allocate 2-4 hours per week for Branch activities. On occasion, there may be anumber of commitments in a particular week, but every effort is made to distribute meetings and events evenly throughout the year.Signed:___________________________________________Date:_____________________________Please include with your nomination: (attach additional pages if required):We want a broad range of skills for the Committee to service all areas of the existing and future membership. Please provide a brief outline (do NOT sendyour CV or resume) of your relevant water industry experience, committee experience and area(s) of expertise and area(s) of interest including any otherrelevant organisations or groups you are associated with (i.e. Engineers Australia).A brief outline of your vision for AWA and the activities you would like to be involved with to support that vision – will be used for online elections if requiredPlease complete this form and return by Friday 17 th August 2012 by fax 6210 1675 or by email to wabranch@awa.asn.auIf nominations exceed the positions available and elections are required, voting will commence onFriday 24th August and close on the Friday 7th September 2012Jul-1210

Members’ PageMembership News - July 2012Please welcome the new members who joined the WA Branch since beginning of June.Member Type First Name Last Name Organisation Member SinceIndividual Discount Nancy Penney Water Corporaon of Western Australia 1/06/2012Corporate Plus Jackson Carr AECOM 1/06/2012Individual Discount Craig Roberts Black & Veatch Australia Pty Ltd 6/06/2012YP Year 1 Laura Ellis GHD Pty Ltd 14/06/2012YP Year 1 Shaan Pawley Sinclair Knight Merz 19/06/2012Corporate Plus Gary Thorne Parsons Brinckerhoff 20/06/2012YP Year 1 Andrew Harvey Analycal Reference Labo 22/06/2012Individual Discount Aye Chan Lwin Water Corporaon of Western Australia 26/06/2012Jul-12Disclaimer Australian Water Association assumes no responsibility for opinion or statement of facts expressed by contributors or advertisers.Copyright Editorial material published in WA Water may be reproduced as long as the source is acknowledged on every occasion.11

NoticeboardWA Water Event CalendarProvisional Calendar for 2012 - let us know if you have any ideas for topicsEvent Venue DateYWP Mad About Mentoring SKM 29/02/2012YWP My Water Career Water Corp 27/03/2012WA Technical Event: Winner of Infrastructure Innovation Award Water Corp 26/04/12WA Technical Event: Advanced Anaerobic Digestion Ord Room, Water Corp 17/05/2012YWP Water Future Forum City West 24/05/2012RACI/AWA Conference: Water & Unconconventional Gas (CSG) ChemCentre 21/06/2012WA Technical Event: Water Efficiency Water Corp 04/07/12AWA Water Industry Lunch with Minister Marmion Hilton Hotel 25/07/12Awards Showcase PCEC 2/08/12AWA Sundowner Universal Bar, Northbridge 23/08/12AWA members Meeting Water Corp 20/09/12WA Technical Event: Jeff Charrois Water Corp 27/09/12Site Visit GWRT 25/10/2012National Water Week Seminar: Recycling City West Function Centre 25/10/2012AWA YWP My Water Career Venue - TBA NovemberAWA Undergraduate Water Finalist Presentations PCEC 23/11/2012WA Water Awards 2012 Gala Dinner Ballroom 1 PCEC 23/11/2012Branch CommitteeAWA WA Branch President: : :Denis Ericson, Tyco Waterdericson@tycowater.comVice PresidentPeter McCafferty, ChemCentrePMcCafferty@chemcentre.wa.gov.auTreasurerYevgen Salamatin, Water Corporationyevgen.salamatin@watercorporation.com.auCorrespondence to :Editor, Cath Miller,Telephone: 0416 289 075Fax: 08 6210 1675wabranch@awa.asn.auCommittee MembersGraham Bateman, CH2MHillDoug Brown, FMGMelinda Burton, Department of WaterCristiano Carvalho, Water CorporationVince Cinanni, Emerson StewartDoug Hall, Compost WAAmanda Hazell, Water CorporationNoel Lavery, SKMDes Lord, DA LordPeter McCafferty, ChemCentreNeil Palmer, NCEDKevin Peachy EUPAJohn Ruprecht, Department of AgricultureYevgen Salamatin, Water CorporationBarry Sanders, ConsultantDaniela Tonon, FreehillsChris Young DegremontJul-1212