Looking back on Ozwater’21
by Cecilia Harris
Ozwater’21 has come to an end, but we’re still reeling from the incredible speakers, panellists and exhibitors that made this year’s water industry gathering special.
With a huge offering of expertise and technical knowledge shared among conference attendees, Ozwater’21 really did help all of us reimagine our water future.
The event kicked off with the signing of a landmark five-year Partnership Agreement between the Australian Water Association and the Water Services Association of Australia (WSAA) to provide more value for members.
On day one, delegates were inspired to say "yes" by Time’s 2019 Kid of the Year Gitanjali Rao, who delivered a keynote address on the importance of design thinking when solving problems of the future.
This year’s Australian Water Awards ceremony and Gala Dinner was one to remember, with delegates gathering for a night under the stars, and to celebrate the impressive work and contributions of the sector’s leading water professionals.
On day two, conference attendees were treated to an engaging keynote address from Who Gives A Crap CEO Simon Griffiths who shared his experiences in building one of Australia’s most impressive not-for-profit organisations from scratch.
With diversity and inclusion being a key theme of Ozwater’21, Balanggarra woman and Zion Engagement and Planning Director Elle Davidson generously shared her experiences and insights in working towards genuine engagement with Indigenous communities.
Delegates also heard from keynote speaker 2021 South Australian of the Year Tanya Hosch, who urged the Australian water sector to practice humility when working toward reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
The Exhibition Hall featured 160 trade exhibitors, and the AWA’s Pride in Water stand encouraged delegates to celebrate diversity within their workplaces and communities.
And while Ozwater’21 is now over, the Australian Water Association is already looking forward to welcoming water professionals in Brisbane next year for Ozwater’22!
We can’t wait to share more information with you about next year’s event and wish all Ozwater’21 attendees a safe return home, and a happy and healthy year ahead.
