The changing face of the SA water sector

We are in a period of change in water management in South Australia, with legislative changes in planning, land management and water industry regulation; a new CEO to be appointed at SA Water; and the next regulatory period for water businesses commencing in 2020, not to mention global pressures forcing us to focus on resource efficiency and the impacts of climate change.

While these driving forces might not be as obvious to those outside the industry, it is important that water professionals and companies continue to advocate for sustainable water management, and highlight how important water is as an enabler of our social, environmental and economic development objectives. I believe the Australian Water Association (AWA) provides a unique space for water industry professionals to come together outside of their day-to-day roles to consider these issues and to learn from each other. It provides a community that offers the opportunity to share information and knowledge, connect with other professionals, industry and stakeholders, and inspire positive change.

We have seen engagement with AWA is increasing (this year we received the most number of nominations for the committee that I am aware of) and I'm excited to be taking the helm of the South Australian branch committee at this time.

While we have farewelled a number of long-serving, dedicated committee members, we have welcomed new members who bring a diversity of background and experience. If our brief brainstorming session at our most recent committee meeting is anything to go by, it's going to be a great two years working together!

I would like to pass on sincere thanks to the following retiring committee members who have contributed so much to our branch:

• John Howard, Managing Director, Cascade Water Solutions
• Ben Lewis, Senior Project Manager, KBR/SA Water Zero Cost Energy Future Team
• Ben Parcell, Principal Process Engineer, Hunter H2O
• Trevor Pillar, National Partnerships Manager, ICEWaRM
• Glenn Sorensen, Senior Assurance and Regulatory Compliance Advisor, Beach Energy
• Katharine Ward, Manager Water Projects, DEW

I aim in my role to work with our committee to build on our existing membership in a way that broadens the appeal and relevance of the AWA, attracting a wider range of water industry professionals to provide diversity of thought and enhanced benefits to all members.

I would welcome any members to get in touch with ideas or questions that they might have about the activities of AWA and how you may wish to get involved. We always strive to bring content and events that are relevant to our members. With Ozwater being held in Adelaide  in 2020, we have an exciting year ahead. Don’t forget to submit your abstracts or workshop proposals by 27 September.

Warm regards
Elsie Mann
Chair, SA Branch Committee