The WA Water Awards recognise the contribution of the association’s members for their leadership, innovative research, programs and infrastructure projects.
The Australian Water Association’s (AWA) Western Australian Water Awards winners were announced at the Water Dinners on 29 October in Perth.
The association’s chief executive officer Corinne Cheeseman congratulated all the finalists and winners, noting their outstanding achievements and significant contributions.
“AWA’s Water Awards recognise the important and ground-breaking work our members do for the water sector and for their communities,” Cheeseman said.
“The WA Water Award finalists and winners showcase the range of work being done collaboratively across the sector, with winners from utilities, universities and the public sector – a reflection of our members’ collective contribution towards our sustainable water future.”
This year’s WA Water Award winners will represent the state in the national Australian Water Awards, presented at the Aasociation’s annual water conference and exhibition, Ozwater’22, in Brisbane.
Winners
Infrastructure Project Innovation Award (regional):
Water Corporation – Vasse Diversion Drain Upgrade Project
The Vasse Diversion Drain Upgrade project demonstrates excellence in engineering and planning to provide a sustainable solution to flooding in the Busselton region. It simultaneously offers innovative solutions in environmental management to help protect one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots.
Infrastructure Project Innovation Award (metro):
Urbaqua, Water Corporation, Department of Water and Environmental Regulation – Wharf Street Basin Next Generation Community Park Project
The Wharf Street Basin Next Generation Community Park demonstrates the success of effective leadership and a strong collaborative partnership approach to deliver drainage revitalisation. It has created a healthy, urban wetland ecosystem in a multi-functional community space that provides community connection, recreation and learning whilst fulfilling its drainage function.
R&D Excellence Award (sponsored by Water Research Australia):
uPtake – Department of Water and Environmental Regulation and Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development
Other supporting organisations: CSBP (Chemical Suppliers Australia)
uPtake is a partnership project between government, industry, universities, farmers, and catchment groups. Undertaking robust and innovative science to improve water quality in southwest WA waterways and estuaries by reducing phosphorus loss of grazing properties by improving confidence in the science supporting fertiliser recommendations.
Student Water Prize (Sponsored by GHD):
Elkia Szczecinski, Curtin University – Formation and Detection of Bromophenols and their Contribution to Plastic Taste in Drinking Water
Elkia’s research focuses on the management of drinking water production and delivers an innovative, extremely sensitive method for analysis of bromophenols, compounds that are known to cause aesthetically-displeasing ‘plastic tastes’ in some drinking waters. The aim is to improve the efficiency and cost of desalinated water production, resulting in long-term sustainability benefits.
Highly Commended
Ramon Skane, Murdoch University – Modelling & Simulation of Pressure Reducing Valves in Water Networks and their Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Young Water Professional of the Year (sponsored by Xylem):
Chenoa Lange, Technical Advisor – Wastewater Processes, Water Corporation
Having had a range of experience throughout the water and wastewater industry in her career, Chenoa consistently displays a passion for her work, environment, safety, and for the people she works and interacts with. She’s always willing to take on a challenge and strives to ensure an optimal outcome in all her tasks.
Water Professional of the Year:
Dr Fabiana Tessele, Director – Tessele Consultants
Dr Tessele can find value in everything. She has developed a rich global career in water and resource recovery. She bases her water consultancy on circular economy principles. A visionary, she believes that we can make the world a better place to live and have fun by working in collaboration.
For more information visit the Australian Water Association website.