eFlash #617 New
Date: 23-Jan-2025
In this edition: Environmental Opportunities Forum | swimlocal training/workshop | Micro-Credentials 2025 | Activated Sludge and BNR Course | WSAA Trade Waste Guideline Values released | Queensland Water Summit | Senior Planning Officer role at SDRC
qldwater Environmental Opportunities Forum
The final program for the qldwater Environmental Opportunities Forum is now available.
This event aims to bring together practitioners from both the Environment and Urban Water sectors to explore the intersection of environmental stewardship and urban water management. Our goal is to foster greater collaboration between these sectors, ultimately leading to innovative solutions and improved outcomes.
Speakers from a range of organisations including DETSI, UU, Unitywater, MRCCC, Noosa Council and Gympie Regional Council will tackle topics like nutrient offsets, BGA blooms, water sensitive communities and integrated catchment management.
A big thanks to our hosts, Gympie Regional Council, for providing the venue and catering.
- Date: 13 February 2025
- Location: The Pavillion, 77 Exhibition Road, Southside, Gympie
swimlocal training/workshop
qldwater is hosting a free 2-day swimlocal training and workshop on Thursday 20 and Friday 21 February at our Brisbane Office. Whether you're new to swimlocal or looking to refine your system, this is a great opportunity to get hands-on support.
Key Details:
- In-person training: Attend for as little or as long as you need.
- Online option: A one-hour webinar via TEAMS from 9:30–10:30 am on Thursday for remote participants.
- Tailored support: We can customise the training to suit your needs.
What we can help with:
- Setting up alerts and automating SWIM annual reporting
- Importing lab and SCADA data
- Adding new sites/indicators
- Creating reports and dashboards
- Any other swimlocal features you need assistance with
If you’d like to attend or need help optimising your swimlocal system, contact David at dscheltinga@qldwater.com.au.
We look forward to helping you get the most out of swimlocal!
3. Activated Sludge and BNR Course, Mackay
The WIM Alliance has successfully secured Queensland Water Regional Alliance Program (QWRAP) funding to host an Activated Sludge and BNR course, delivered by Assoc Prof. Helen Stratton from Griffith University, and her team.
Course Details
- Dates: 3 - 7 March 2025
- Location: CQ University Ooralea, Mackay
- Spots Available: Limited (16 currently)
This intensive one-week course is one of the few short-course wastewater operational training packages available in Queensland. It is specifically designed for professionals in the wastewater industry, including operators, engineers, scientists, and managers. Participants will gain practical skills and knowledge for troubleshooting and process optimisation of activated sludge and biological nutrient removal systems.
Please note that the registration link provided in the previous eFlash was incorrect - correct link here.
4. Micro-Credentials 2025
There are still a few remaining spots available for the next delivery of micro-credential courses at the qldwater offices in Eagle Farm Brisbane. The face to face, non-accredited micro-credential courses aim to provide skills uplifts for the water sector across the state. Limited places available so get your registrations in asap!
| Date | Venue | Course | Cost for members |
| 1 April 2025 | Eagle Farm, Brisbane | Practical implications for Drinking Water Quality Management Plans | $410 |
| 2 April 2025 | Eagle Farm, Brisbane | Making use of water quality data | $410 |
| 3-4 April 2025 | Eagle Farm, Brisbane | Introduction to SCADA | $950 |
Register here.
Please email skills@qldwater.com.au for more information, including pricing for non-members.
Regional sessions will follow throughout the year – more details to come.
WSAA Trade Waste Guideline Values released
WSAA has just released the revised Trade Waste Guideline Values for Water Utilities, which are available for download from the WSAA website.
These guidelines supersede the guidance that appeared in Appendix C of the original AWWQM Guidelines which were updated (without the Appendix) in 2022.
The new guidance, which was developed through WSAA’s Wastewater Quality Management Network with input from across the sector provides a structured approach towards the management of trade waste inputs to sewer. Thanks must go to Col Hester (now with qldwater) who played an important role in the development of the document.
Queensland Water Summit
Stormwater Queensland is hosting its inaugural Queensland Water Summit to discuss, showcase and drive action for beyond best practice protection and management of our waterways and water resources. The theme for the event is: How do we ensure future water management provides water security, liveability and healthy environments while facing challenges such as climate change, population growth and urban development?
This cross-sector event will connect Queensland’s leading water supply, stormwater, wastewater and other catchment and waterway health professionals. The Summit aims to connect with other key stakeholders that have an interest or dependency on the protection and management of the water cycle - including indigenous communities, health experts, policy makers, regulators, planners, urban designers, and landscape architects.
Speakers are elected representatives and executive level positions including CEOs, directors, general managers or president level. Qldwater CEO Dr Georgina Davis will also be presenting.
Details and registration here.
Senior Planning Officer – Water & Wastewater
Southern Downs Regional Council is looking for a Senior Planning Officer to develop and maintain water and wastewater modelling and scenarios, proactive maintenance programs & water & wastewater strategies for each town. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in water & wastewater strategic and asset planning, lifecycle management and development of strategies, processes and procedures, alongside strong leadership, analytical, and communication skills.
UPCOMING EVENTS
- 13 Feb - Environmental Opportunities Forum, Gympie
- 19 Feb - AWA QLD Industry Breakfast, Victoria Park, Brisbane
- 26 Mar - Research and Education Tour and Drinks Reception, QUT
- 27 Mar - Annual Water Skills Forum, Parliament House
- 12-15 May - Water Connections Tour
- 20-21 Aug - Annual Forum, qldwater offices, Eagle Farm. Brisbane
- 10-12 Sep - WSAA Wastewater Source Management Network Meeting, qldwater offices, Eagle Farm