Would you opt for the safety and familiarity of potable water, or embrace the innovative and sustainable approach of recycled water?  

As our region struggles with increasing challenges in securing sustainable water supply with increasing water demands, we invite you to join us for an engaging debate with the provocative question:

Is recycled water the most cost-effective, energy-efficient, and sustainable solution to secure our water supply in Queensland? 

Event Details: 

• Date:  TBC April 2025 
• Time:  5:00pm registration for 5.30pm start AEST
• Location:  Brisbane TBC and ONLINE 
  
              

How can Queensland secure its water supply for the future? The recycling of water is offering the possibility of a sustainable water supply even when there is no rain. It can close the water circle and reduce costs, conserve energy and minimize our carbon footprint. But is this the whole picture? 

Are there alternative solutions worth considering? Are there hidden costs associated with the infrastructure required for such initiatives? And can we truly rely on recycled water in times of crisis? 

Join industry experts and young water professionals from the water sector as they explore these crucial questions. This debate promises to challenge your views and ignite lively discussions about the future of Queensland’s water management. 

Whether you’re an advocate of innovative water solutions or a sceptic seeking answers, your voice matters. Don’t miss this chance to engage in a conversation that could shape the future of our water security. 

Facilitator  

Himanthi Mendis  YWP / Mott MacDonald
Himanthi Mendis is a dedicated advocate for water sensitive urban design, bringing her passion to every project she undertakes. With extensive experience in integrated water management assessments and alternative water supply strategies, she has successfully delivered solutions for clients at both site-specific and regional levels. Her expertise spans the detailed design of civil and water infrastructure, as well as natural stormwater quality treatment systems. Himanthi has also played a key role in the hydrologic and hydraulic modelling of urban and rural catchments for complex, bespoke developments. She is committed to challenging industry norms, driving innovation, and enhancing the sustainability of the built environment to create vibrant, liveable cities.


Debating Speakers


Cherry Wang - YWP / Veolia

Cherry Wang is a Process Engineer at Veolia, who has been working at Luggage Point Advanced Water Treatment Plant on the Western Corridor Recycled Water Scheme for the last two years. During her time at Luggage Point AWTP, Cherry has developed her skills on site in the fields of process optimization and water quality whilst pursuing her interest in sustainable treatment practices.  As an active member of the Young Water Professionals (YWP) network, Cherry hopes to bring a fresh perspective on the topic of recycled water use from a practical and sustainable standpoint. 

Kim Markwell - Alluvium

Kim Markwell is an environmental scientist with a passion for bringing together water, nature and people in sustainable and resilient built environments.  She has been working as a consultant for over 15 years specifically on catchment and waterway management, integrated water management and blue-green infrastructure projects.  Kim is currently the Regional Manager for the QLD Alluvium Consulting team and is happiest when having fun and engaging conversations, ideally in a natural setting.

Rob Fearon - Urban Utilities 

Rob is the Manager Land Use Planning from Urban Utilities, with over 15 years at the Queensland Water Directorate as the Director Innovation Partnerships. 

Johanna Johnson - AWA Branch Member

Johanna lives and breathes Circular Economy. Johanna brings experience and a wealth of knowledge about sustainable solutions. As the outgoing chair of the AWA YWP's and a current QLD Branch Committee member,  she is committed to supporting the next generation of water leaders.

 Ted Gardner - Welder (Semi-Retired Water Elder)

 Ted Gardner (PSM) is a retired scientist who spent most of his career in the Queensland  government sector, with a few of his final years in CSIRO. He has had wide experience in experimental soil research & hydrology, complemented by extensive research experience in on -site sanitation ,water recycling, stormwater quality & treatment, and alternative urban water supplies. Ted was awarded a Public Service Medal in 2005 for his work in the urban water industry, and the Maclean-Iedema Award from Irrigation Australia in 2014. During his retirement, Ted has co-edited two books on urban water issues ( Rainwater systems & Stormwater), mentored a number of post graduate students, and undertaken consultancies in waste water irrigation, science reviews, and the testing protocols used to certify on-site secondary sewage treatment technologies. He is currently an Adjunct Professor at Victoria University, as well as a member of the AWA WATER e-journal editorial committee. 

Steven Kenway - University of QLD

Steven Kenway is a UQ academic who has had senior roles in the water industry, government and consulting since 1990 – all in urban water. His work focusses on water security and integrating energy and greenhouse gas management into water cycle and urban design analysis. He creates quantitative tools to understand climate resilience, and circular economy performance, and Net Zero Carbon Water Cycle management options at precinct, catchment and city scales. He has attracted over $11 million for his research since 2010 from peak national (ARC), competitive international schemes, industry, and government. His work has had strong uptake in policy and planning including major projects through the CRC Water Sensitive Cities, Asian Development Bank and Water Research Foundation. Steven is a long-term AWA member.

Event Details

Registration

Register now to attend in person or online.