Reaching out for regional champions

AWA is reaching out for Regional Water Champions to extend reach across greater Queensland.

Why?

• To build local "hubs" in the regions, where water professionals can come together, get to know each other and share knowledge. Being connected to the AWA means that regional water professionals can call on others for help, advice and assistance when needed.
• To connect regional Queensland with the latest developments in water and sanitation technology, industry standards, policies, innovations and best practice, locally and nationally.
• To promote regional Queenslanders to share their water stories, contribute to the industry and help shape a better and brighter water future.
• To channel greater awareness of regional water issues to AWA and its members and to challenge the broader water community to respond with support and solutions.

What’s the role of a Regional Water Champion?

The way we see it, a Regional Water Champion is an extension of an AWA Branch Committee member, but without any obligations attached. As a volunteer, it’s completely up to you how you decide to extend AWA's reach and how much time and effort you put in to the role. Suggested activities include:

• Inviting active and aspiring water professionals from your local water utility, consultancies and learning institutions to attend a technical event "live stream" at your office.
• Writing or encouraging others to write a Water Source article about an interesting project or achievement. There are many subjects you could write about — for example, technology, community, environment, partnerships, workplace, diversity and inclusion, health and safety, assets and operations, innovation, research.
• Presenting, or encouraging others to present at an AWA technical event.
• Preparing a paper and presenting at the North Queensland Conference or Queensland Conference.
• Submitting a Queensland award submission.

What’s in it for you?

There are many great benefits to being a Regional Water Champion, including recognition (locally, Queensland-wide and nationally), achieving a sense of personal satisfaction from giving back to the industry, growing your water connections, sharing your knowledge and ideas, channelling positive change and really feeling like you belong to a supportive and connected water industry.

Whether you are an undergraduate, a young water professional, an operator, an engineer, a scientist, a pro-water lawyer or an experienced industry guru, AWA is calling out to you. And whether you’re passionate about potable water, wastewater, stormwater, recycled water, freshwater, integrated water management, AWA has got you covered.

How do I become a Regional Champion?

Send an email to Sharon James, AWA Branch Manager — Queensland, or contact QLD Committee Regional Liaison Janice Wilson.