With awards season now underway, the ACT water sector announced the winners of the ACT Water Awards last week at the ACT Water Leaders Dinner in Canberra.

Australian Water Association Chief Executive Jonathan McKeown congratulated the award winners for their positive contribution to the sector.

“The Association commends and recognises the projects, programs and people who are truly making a difference to the water sector in our nation’s capital,” Mr McKeown said.

"It’s important for us to come together to recognise and be inspired by the individuals and organisations who are ensuring a secure water future for all Australians."

The ACT Water Awards aim to recognise the contribution of the Association’s members for their leadership and their innovative programs, research or infrastructure projects.

The winners of this year's ACT Water Awards will automatically be entered into the equivalent National Australian Water Awards category, which will be presented at Ozwater’19 in Melbourne, 7-9 May 2019.

The winners

Infrastructure Project Innovation Award

Lining of the Molonglo Valley Interceptor Sewer – Interflow and Icon Water

This innovative project involved the structural renewal of a major sewer carrying two-thirds of Canberra’s wastewater, whilst the sewer remained in full service. To extend the life of the sewer, an Australian-developed plastic liner was installed, restoring the strength and flow capacity of the concrete sewer that was deteriorating through corrosion. The works have given the sewer at least 50 years of additional life.

Program Innovation Award

World Water Data Initiative – Bureau of Meteorology

The World Water Data Initiative is an ambitious Australian-led global program aiming to improve decision making about water by reducing the cost and complexity of accessing and using water data worldwide. The Bureau of Meteorology has led the Australian Government's work to bring this about and embed it at the international level.

Young Water Professional of the Year Award (sponsored by TRILITY)

Alice Liao, Operations Engineer, Icon Water

Alice’s enthusiasm and passion for the water industry is infectious and she takes personal ownership to ensure Canberra’s water and sewage treatment is operated effectively and  efficiently. As an Alumni student ambassador, Alice has significantly inspired students planning their careers by sharing her own experiences as an engineer and the insights she has gained from working in the water sector.

Alice is regarded very highly within Icon Water and her current involvement in their leadership program is preparing her with the skills for a future leadership role where she will continue to thrive and deliver positive and beneficial impacts to the community.

Check out some highlights from the event here.