qldwater is proud to sponsor the Young Operator of the Year and Operator of the Year (Civil) awards to recognise the outstanding operational performance of Queensland water industry employees. The 2025 winners were announced at the 49th WIOA Queensland Water Industry Operations Conference & Exhibition on 30 October 2025.
The 2025 Young Operator of the Year is Matt Gosper from Mackay Regional Council. From trainee to Water Treatment Operator, Matt’s journey reflects technical excellence, leadership, and community spirit. His work at the Sarina Water Recycling Facility, contributions to safety and innovation, and dedication both on and off the job make him a standout in the industry. As well as the trophy and title, Matt received an all-expenses paid opportunity to join the WIOA delegation on their next New Zealand tour.
This award, introduced in 2010, aims to provide encouragement to water industry employees employed in the civil construction/maintenance areas of the water industry to recognise excellent performance, initiative and all round attention to detail.
The 2025 Operator of the Year (Civil), celebrating over three decades of outstanding service in the water industry, is Wayne Siganto from Mareeba Shire Council. As Treatment Plant Supervisor, Wayne’s leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to community safety, especially during emergencies like Cyclone Jasper, have made a lasting impact. His mentorship, cultural advocacy, and dedication to excellence embody the spirit of this prestigious award. Wayne received a trophy and bragging rights, along with professional development opportunities fully funded by qldwater.
Two awards were presented at the 2025 qldwater Annual Forum to recognise outstanding contributions to the Queensland Urban Water and Sewerage industry.
Chris Blake, Team Leader, Environmental Health (WaSH) - Tropical Public Health Services, is the recipient of the 2025 qldwater Government Stakeholder Contribution Award. This award acknowledges a government representative who has played a pivotal role in advancing the industry through their support, engagement, and forward-thinking initiatives.
Chris leads the Safe and Healthy Drinking Water Program, an initiative dedicated to providing safe drinking water to Queensland’s First Nations Communities in alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6. With a focus on technical and scientific support, Chris and his team work closely with 17 communities, offering hands-on advice, training, and support. Through culturally sensitive partnerships and empowering community technical staff, they ensure sustainable access to safe water. Chris’s exceptional ability to build and maintain relationships at technical, political, and community levels is evident in the program’s success in providing vital resources to underserved communities.
Trevor Seth, Director of TJS Consulting, was presented with the 2025 qldwater Industry Recognition Award. This award acknowledges an individual who has made significant contributions to the advancement of the water and sewerage industry in Queensland.
With 46 years in the water and wastewater industry, Trevor began as a plumber, drainer, and gas fitter, eventually moving into various roles in multiple councils. He most recently served as the Manager of Water and Sewerage and Plumbing Inspector at Goondiwindi Shire Council for 15 years until 2024. After leaving Goondiwindi Regional Council in 2024, Trevor launched TJS Consulting and is using his extensive expertise and experience to support regional, remote and rural councils across Queensland and Northern New South Wales.
A number of other organisations offer awards that celebrate the achievements of the Queensland urban water industry and qldwater encourages members to submit nominations. qldwater is happy to provide assistance with your nomination(s), please contact Sarah Henry on skills@qldwater.com.au or 3632 6850.
The Water Industry Operators Association of Australia (WIOA) is the Peak Body nationally for people in operational roles in the water industry, providing many opportunities for the recognition of individual achievements of both Members and other operators employed in the water industry.
Award Categories include:
For more information visit the WIOA website.
The Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia Queensland (IPWEAQ) annual awards program places a spotlight on the projects and people who deliver exceptional outcomes for Queensland communities.
Nominations open in March and close in July 2023. Winners are announced at the Gala Awards Ceremony and Dinner to be held on the Gold Coast - details to be confirmed.
Award Categories include:
For more information visit the IPWEAQ website.