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Our 2024 achievements
This year, WIOA focused on our Strategic Pillars: Digitisation and Stakeholder Engagement. Rather than just being a plan on the shelf, this is how we implemented them.
First, we evolved from being an association based in Shepparton, to a virtual organisation with staff based in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. This change in our delivery model ensures we can become more accessible, and support servicing our members nationally.
The 2024 wrap up of our Stakeholder Engagement resulted in almost 100 events across the country. To learn more, please see highlights over the next few pages.
4,250 MEMBERS across our 3 membership tiers
NEW MEMBERS PORTAL launched early in the year
NEW WEBSITE launched in September 20+ AWARDS throughout Australia
7 MAIN TAPPING COMPETITIONS held throughout Australia
7 BEST TASTING TAPWATER COMPETITIONS held throughout Australia
3 OPERATOR MAGAZINES published in May, October & December
70 WATERCOOLER MEMBERS
Group connecting likeminded colleagues in the Water Industry
20 ENEWSLETTERS SENT A monthly edition of WIOA Words and 8 Event Round Ups
3 CONFERENCES HELD (SA conference postponed)
2,797 ATTENDEES at WIOA conferences
970 EXHIBITORS at WIOA conferences
16 INTEREST DAYS including our first in Western Australia and Northern Territory
18 TRAINING SEMINARS DELIVERED for our practical guides
2 WATERWORKS JOURNALS published in January & November
5,569 LINKEDIN FOLLOWERS
$6,000 RAISED FOR CHARITY across WIOA events
800 FACEBOOK FOLLOWERS
Our focus on digitisation
Our Digitisation Strategic Pillar was designed to enhance our member experience, while delivering business efficiencies. This was achieved by implementing the below:
9 The option of epublications for WIOA Words, Operator, WaterWorks
9 MS Teams channels staff/Advisory Committees/Board
9 You, our members, helped design our 2024—25 Strategic Plan via our members survey.
We would value your feedback in 2025 via our members survey, as we develop our 2026—28 Strategic Plan, and would appreciate your valued input to help design the next evolution of WIOA.
9 First lead capture system for our exhibitors
9 First conference self-registration system, reducing wait times by approximately 50%
9 Website eforms/self-serve to reduce time, printing, writing and scanning
Keep up to date on events we are planning in 2025 via our website
From the CEO’s desk
Welcome to the final edition of WIOA Operator for 2024.
What you will notice with this edition of Operator, is that our skills-based appointments are also offering gender and geographic diversity, as we continually evolve our association.
This could not have been achieved without the amazing contribution of our staff and volunteers, and I personally would like to thank the WIOA community for what we have achieved in 2024.
I would also like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas, and hope you have some downtime to refresh and recharge, while spending quality time with those important to you over the festive season.
A Year in WIOA life with Glenn Alford
What a start to 2024! The WIOA team and I have been on the move, connecting with industry professionals, celebrating achievements, and sharing practical insights at this year’s standout events.
Event Highlights
• First ever WIOA Interest Day in the Northern Territory
• Not one, but two Interest Days in Western Australia
• New floorplans for our QLD & NSW Conference & Exhibitions
A big thank you to everyone who attended, participated, and supported these events. Whether it was through insightful conversations, cheering at competitions, or sharing knowledge, your enthusiasm and contributions made each event a success!
Our 2025 calendar is already packed with more WIOA events! The WIOA team and I are ready to hit the road again—bringing connection, knowledge, and opportunities to our Water Industry Operations sector.
We look forward to seeing you at the next WIOA event!
We are also mindful of the water industry operations sector, that continues to provide us with water and wastewater services every hour of every day. On behalf of WIOA, thank you.
And last of all, a new year brings a new chapter. With almost 100 events in 2024, we look forward to spending time with our members, delivering value-add services, as we work together to support the water industry.
Merry Christmas and happy new year,
Dean Barnett WIOA Chief Executive Officer
Re-Wirement
Our industry is quickly losing experienced personnel to retirements and life style changes.
Re-Wirement will allow these experienced operators to be available for part time employment, training sessions or remote mentoring of our next generation of water industry personnel.
This program aims to connect willing personnel with water industry groups requiring part time assistance with training, operations or mentoring roles.
This will be ideal for the retired and semi-retired traveling personnel who wish to work their way around the country and remain current with their respective skill sets and qualifications.
Water Utilities, Councils and Shires can tap into this expertise pool, to obtain valuable input across plant and network operations around Australia.
Scan the QR code below to learn more or express your interest in this upcoming program.
2025 Membership Renewal
Your membership helps to provide the community with a collaborative approach, share learnings, celebratory recognition, and advocate for the operations sector of the Water Industry nationally.
Your 2025 membership is now available to renew. We would appreciate your prompt attention, as we continue to maintain the lowest water industry association membership across the country. On 1 January 2025, the system will automatically renew your membership and generate an invoice.
When assigned as a membership administrator, you become the primary contact. This means you will receive the routine correspondence, invoices and publications produced by WIOA unless you opt out to receive these. As the administrator, you have access to add and remove users. Additional staff members can receive electronic communications from WIOA and are Associate Members of the association.
Utility Corporate Members
A professional community for operational staff.
$400/annually
9 Sign up of as many staff members as required
9 Participate in numerous WIOA awards
9 Member rates for WIOA events
Member benefits
PUBLICATIONS
Corporate Membership
Align your business with WIOA
$400/annually
9 Early bird access to exhibition sales
9 Discounted exhibition fees
9 Subscription to WIOA publications
• WIOA Words: Our monthly enewsletter shares the latest news, including events, new technologies, operator stories and how to get involved with WIOA. You can read past editions on our website.
• Operator magazine: interesting and insightful stories from our individual and corporate members throughout Australia, as well as industry news.
• WaterWorks: Our annual technical publication, with technical information and operationally focused articles.
We are always on the lookout for stories and news to include in our publications, so please email us at info@wioa.org.au if you’d like to contribute.
WIOA WEBSITE
Individual Members
Aimed at individuals working in the water or allied industries.
$65/annually
9 Access to Jobs Board
9 Subscription to WIOA publications
9 Access to resources including past papers
Our website has up-to-date news, events and opportunities available to you, as a member. You’ll find access to our careers page, where we post roles within the Australian Water Industry. It’s also home to our conference papers, which might be helpful in providing ideas and insights for solving challenges you face in your role.
WIOA MEMBER PORTAL
The WIOA Member Portal has memberonly content and is where you can manage your subscriptions and email notifications. A username and Password is provided when registration is confirmed.
EVENTS
As a member, you can receive discounts of up to 25% when registering for our events, including annual conferences and exhibitions. Many of our events are FREE for members only. To see our past and upcoming events, head to our website.
MEMBER COMMUNITY
WIOA is a national association, committed to delivering high quality events, services and resources Australia-wide, to promote excellence in water industry operations.
The continuing strength of our member base relies on the generous contributions of our members. If you find value in WIOA’s offerings, please share our events, publications and resources with colleagues and encourage them to join us so we can continue growing and delivering even greater value to the industry.
MEMBER PORTAL RESOURCES
SPECIAL OFFER
As part of your WIOA Membership, we have included a $100 subscription to Utility Magazine. Scan the QR code to access a $100 subscription to Utility Magazine.
You can also log in to your Member Portal to update your subscription and delivery preferences. If you have any questions regarding your membership, please contact us at info@wioa.org.au
WIOA MEMBERSHIP WEBINARS
We are running a Virtual Round Table Session: How to pay your membership invoice and update your profile via WIOA’s membership management system — Mition on Thursday 23 January, 3:30pm — 4:00pm (AEDT).
WIOA is committed to making sure you get the most of your membership. We have prepared a cheat sheet with top tips on updating your details and navigating our Member Portal. Scan the QR code to access the cheat sheet.
Coming in 2025
Interest Days
Our State and Territory Advisory Committees support WIOA in managing events. One event type is our WIOA Interest Days.
Are you a water business that would like to showcase your site? Do you have a meeting room that can be used to deliver presentations? Would like to share a presentation on what you are doing operationally within your business? Then you could qualify for a WIOA Interest Day.
We will be run Interest Days across the country in 2025. To register your interest or find out more, please contact us at info@wioa.org.au
Women in Water Operations Network
A new WIOA network is in development, the WIOA Women in Water Operations Network, launching in early 2025. Contact us at info@wioa.org.au to get involved.
Call for Abstracts 2025
We are now collecting abstracts for our 2025 conferences. Scan the QR code to learn more:
2024 Team of the Year Award Winner
SPONSORED BY TRILITY
The WIOA Team of the Year award recognises teams of employees working in any part of the water industry who have made an outstanding contribution to their workplace or community.
The award focuses on those who have gone above and beyond their normal roles and recognise their dedication, initiative, talent, enthusiasm and contribution.
2024 winners
Congratulations to Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council members Rodney Denman, Jarvis King and Gregory Pascoe for their work on the Tropical Cyclone Jasper disaster recovery.
About the winning initative: Tropical Cyclone Jasper disaster recovery
The Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council Water Operations Team Rodney Denman, Jarvis King and Gregory Pascoe won the Water Operators Team of the Year Award in recognition of their dedication and collaborative efforts in maintaining potable water to our community. This team planned and implemented long-term solutions following the Tropical Cyclone Jasper disaster event.
To give you an idea of the disaster, the Bloomfield River in Wujal Wujal rose 5.5 metres in 15 minutes.
In the immediate aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Jasper, our community members were evacuated and council received critical assistance from skilled water specialists including Council’s Operations Manager Perry Gould, Acting Essential Services Coordinator Zenarra Ashworth, the Mutual Aid Coordination Cell (MACC), the Department of Regional Development Manufacturing and Water, Trility Water, SEQ Water and other supportive stakeholders throughout the flooding event and during the initial response period.
These teams exhibited remarkable resilience and resourcefulness, working tirelessly around the clock, sacrificing personal time and comfort, to oversee the deployment of temporary water supply solutions and ensure essential services were restored for our community. They are well deserved recipients of this award!
Scan the QR code to learn more about this award or nominate a team for the 2025 award.
Bana Yirriji Art and Cultural Centre and the damaged road to the Bloomfield Falls in Wujal Wujal.
EVENT WRAP UP 2024 WIOA NSW Water Operations Industry Conference and Exhibition
Thank you to all participants, sponsors and exhibitors. Together, we’ve made a significant impact on the water community, and your involvement truly reflects the spirit of connection and leadership in our industry.
We had an impressive array of presenters, many provided by Operators in the NSW Water Industry. These included SafeWork NSW as our keynote presenter, Sydney Water, Griffith City Council, NSW Public Works, Riverina Water, MidCoast Council, Hunter Water, Port Macquarie Hastings Council, Water Research Australia and many more.
The Women of Water Breakfast provided a fantastic opportunity for networking and growth.
Over the 2 days, attendees experienced our record-breaking exhibition, featuring 133 exhibition sites at this Tamworth event — surpassing the previous record of 130 sites set in Canberra in 2017 and the 128 sites previously held in Tamworth in 2022.
Highlights included the lively Meet the Exhibitors Dinner and the prestigious 2024 NSW Awards Gala Dinner, hosted in the architecturally stunning Tamworth War Memorial Town Hall.
Both events were warmly received, adding significantly to the event’s overall success.
Our NSW IXOM Best Tasting Tap Water Competition was a wonderful fulfilment with 9 samples. The NSW Main Tapping Competition had a staggered start and concluded with a memorable finale.
A massive thank you to our sponsors: your support made this event possible. We couldn’t have achieved this without your generous partnership and commitment to the industry.
The 2024 papers are available on our website, visit wioa.org.au/resources/conference-papers/
Let’s continue the conversation and keep the Water Industry Operations community alive. Join us on LinkedIn
A huge congratulations to our winners
We’re delighted to announce this year’s well-deserved winners, whose achievements truly set a benchmark in the water industry.
NSW
Wingecarribee Shire Council
Operator of the Year
We want your feedback
Help us make our next event even better. Take a moment to fill out our survey and share your thoughts at the QR code below. Thank you again for your enthusiasm and support.
David Cash, Richmond Valley Council
Young Operator of the Year
Bernie Barnes Award - Caitlin Neill, Sydney Water
Best Operator Paper 1st Place
Russell & Gregg, Midcoast Council
Reece+Viadux
Main Tapping Winner
Rob and Mark, Walcha Council
Ixom NSW Best Tasting Tap Water Winner
Best Paper Overall — equal 1st
Tara and Seak, Sydney Water
Best Exhibition Site Ron Bergmeier Award Winner SECA (Sewer Equipment Company Australia)
Best Operator Paper 2nd Place
Stewart Snitch, Port Macquarie Hastings
2024 Kwatye Award winner
The award is open to WIOA individual members, to recognise an initiative involving cultural, diversity and inclusion-based activities within a project and/or community.
In partnership with TRILITY, WIOA is excited to announce the winner of the 2024 Kwatye — Cultural Recognition Award to Goulburn Valley Water Victoria team members’ Steven Nash and Daniel Reid, for their work on the Gawarn Baring Walking Track And Fishing Platforms.
About the winning project
Gawarn Baring (meaning Echidna Track in Taungurung language) is a new 2.5 kilometre walking track. The track starts on the Goulburn Valley Highway, across from the Great Victorian Rail Trail and near the Trawool Resort. It then winds its way across the footprint of Falls Creek, rising 278 metres to the retired 100-megalitre Trawool Reservoir, which historically supplied water to the Seymour township.
The project was designed and delivered in partnership with the Taungurung Land and Waters Council (TLaWC) and Biik Cultural Land Management. A cornerstone of the project’s success has been the ongoing involvement of Traditional Owners, who collaborated closely with Biik as part of the project team. This remarkable team effort has rightfully earned the recognition of the KWATYE Award — an achievement well deserved by all involved.
2025 Network Operator Development Program
The Network Operator Development Program, established in 2017, aims to identify, mentor, and develop future leaders in Victorian water network operations.
It enhances operators’ knowledge, skills, and networks by exposing them to strategic thinking and best practices in technology, business management, and leadership. Graduates gain tools to implement best practices, increase productivity, and foster a professional culture, ultimately improving customer focus in their network activities. The program runs annually.
Who is eligible for the program?
Applicants for this program must primarily work within the potable water reticulation network and/or wastewater collection systems.
Closing date
Applications for our 2025 Program will close at 5.00pm on Friday 4th April, 2025.
Program participants must
• Attend all of the workshop days as well the WIOA 2026 Victorian conference as a delegate
• Complete projects and activities as assigned after each workshop session.
• Complete at least one presentation during the program.
• Proactively participate in all aspects of the program and contribute to the discussions during the workshops.
Scan the QR code to learn more or apply with this program.
Development opportunities that come with your membership
Your WIOA membership forms a community of frontline water industry operational employees, broader water industry employees and service providers.
While you bring your individual and corporate knowledge and experience to the WIOA community, your membership also provides you with a state-based and national opportunity.
State/territory Advisory Committees
Our state/territory Advisory Committees provide us with a focus on the particular needs and activities within their state/territory.
These committees will assist WIOA to undertake a range of functions including, but not limited to, the following:
• identifying the types, range and scope of services and events considered appropriate for water industry operational staff in their state/territory
• assisting with the organisation, promotion and staging of events
• providing information with a state-based flavour for inclusion in WIOA publications
• encouraging participation and knowledge sharing with water industry-related personnel who are employed in private and public sector organisations
• informing WIOA of training and development issues and needs specific to water industry operational staff.
Board
While our Board is focused on:
• Strategy
• Policy
• Governance
All of these groups consisting of WIOA members. Learn more about our people here
National Advisory Committee
Our newly formed National Advisory Committee focuses on:
• providing industry knowledge and expertise
• representing WIOA on external committees
• technical resource development
• editorial support, e.g. Practical Guides
• assist WIOA engagement with other industries, e.g. mining, hospitality
• support and develop a process for disaster recovery/emergency response.
New groups and networks
We are also offering a range of groups/networks for 2025. They consist of our:
• Women in Water Operations Network: designed to connect our female operations staff
• Executive General Manager Operations Network: connecting the strategic component of operations across the country
• Diversity and Inclusion Group: workshopping ideas so WIOA continually enhances our consideration, reasonable adjustments and inclusiveness for all to be involved in the WIOA community.
Interested in joining one of our networks?
If you’d like to learn more about our networks or express your interest in joining, scan the QR code to contact us.
2024 National Ixom Best Tasting Tap Water Competition
Our 2023 National winners TasWater, hosted the Grand Final on Saturday, 16 November, at the Wrest Point Hotel Casino Lawns, Hobart, in partnership with the JackJumpers, Banjo’s Family Day.
There were over 130 members of the public who consumed the samples to a blind taste test, voting each sample on colour, clarity, odour and taste.
Our finalists were:
• VIC | Yarra Valley Water | Plantes Hill Reservoir, Lilydale, Silvan
• SA | BHP | Olympic Dam Desal Plant
• TAS | TasWater | Fern Tree
• WA | Water Corporation | Dalyellup
• NSW/ACT | Wingecarribee Shire Council | Wingecarribee.
Congratulations to QLD Isaac Regional Council Glenden Scheme for being the winners. Isaac Regional Council will host the National IXOM Best Tasting Tap Water at the end of 2025!
WIOA PRACTICAL GUIDES
Digital guides available
Our suite of practical guides are available for sale and easy access online.
Proceeds directly fund content updates by subject matter experts and enable the delivery of updated training sessions and materials. Before you purchase each guide, you can view or download a PDF of the content overview for each. If you have any questions or you would like to purhcase hardcopy practical guides please reach out to the WIOA team at info@wioa.org.au
Scan the QR code to see a video of this event.
WIOA PRACTICAL GUIDES
Training seminars
Did you know we offer training seminars on these WIOA practical guides?
These can be delivered at your organisation with approximately 15 participants, all receiving training and receiving a practical guide as a reference tool.
Registration includes:
• up to 15 attendees
• speaker notes
• practical guide on the relevant topic (valued at $33)
• morning tea and lunch.
If you are interested in receiving a training proposal, contact us at info@wioa.org.au
2024 Reece + Viadux National Main Tapping Competition
Our National Sponsors, Reece+Viadux, hosted this Grand Final on 21 November at their facility in Tullamarine, VIC.
It was a great day to kick off our inaugural National Water Main Tapping Competition. This could not have been achieved without the support of our competition sponsor, Reece+Viadux.
A huge shout out to our WIOA National Water Main Tapping Competition Chair and MC Ben Pennell. Well done to all entrants who represented their state.
While this was a fun day, it is also an acknowledgement of all network operators across the country who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure customers can turn on the tap and receive water every day. Thank you for your community service, passion and commitment to the water industry.
Congratulations to the 2024 National winners, Dan Nuku and Tom Brown, from the City of Gold Coast, who are our first national winners!
Watch the 2024 National Reece +Viadux Mains Tapping Competition Grand Final
Scan the QR code to nominate a team for our 2025 competition
2024 Annual General Meeting
We held 2 Annual General Meetings in 2024, the first in May and second in November.
The May meeting was an iconic as we merged WIOA Incorporated into WIOA Limited as part of our One WIOA Project. This was delivered via our revised Constitution, supported by our members’ vote and WIOA Committee. At the same time, we changed our name from the Water Industry Operators Association of Australia to the Water Industry Operations Association of Australia.
Our November Annual General Meeting was designed to tweak our Constitution to ensure we remain a modern and contemporary association. These changes were again supported by our members’ vote.
Interest and Charity Bowls Day in Far North Queensland
In late October, we held a successful Far North Queensland Interest and Charity Bowls Day in Cairns.
Our WIOA team of Glenn Alford and Dean Barnett were joined by over 70 people within the local water operations space. The event included 9 innovative presentations and a water main tapping competition ending with barefoot bowls, while raising $1,000 for charity.
Thank you to the companies that made our event a wonderful success, including our:
• Charity Bowls Day Sponsor - TRILITY
• Host and Catering Sponsor - Cairns Regional Council
• Gold Sponsors - Coogee Chemicals, Professional Pump Services & Irrigation, Reece Plumbing
• Silver Sponsors - Aquatec Maxcon, Control Components, AquaManage, Great Northern Plumbing Services
• National Interest Day Partner ProMinent Group
• Queensland State Advisory Committee with Phil Bolger, Natasha Glaskin, and Shane Bandiera supporting the day.
VIC UV Systems Interest Day
A huge thank you to everyone who attended our Interest Day – UV Systems in Victoria in late October. This event was proudly supported by:
• ProMinent Fluid Controls - our National Partner
• Filtec Water
• Xylem
• Fluidquip Australia
Hosted by Reece + Viadux, the day was packed with valuable insights, knowledge sharing, and networking opportunities—all completely FREE for WIOA members.
The program featured a stellar lineup of presentations:
• UV Disinfection Systems – Water vs Wastewater by Graham Smith, Fluidquip Australia.
• UV Lamps – Differences and Controls by Louis Wiart, Xylem
• Operator Maintenance of UV Systems by Daniel Otley, Filtec Water)
With engaging discussions, a networking lunch, and contributions from our generous supporters, the day proved to be a fantastic opportunity for collaboration and learning. We look forward to seeing you at our next WIOA event!
WISE ‘25 QLD 13 MARCH
2025 | NORWELL, QLD
Water Industry Operations Association of Australia (WIOA) will stage our first Queensland Water Industry Safety Event (WISE), after a successful run in Victoria. By fostering a network of support and knowledge exchange, WISE ensures water and wastewater treatment operators can enhance their safety performance and operational efficiency, and grow professional networks for ongoing collaboration.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
• Water utilities from metropolitan and regional areas
• Water industry safety representatives
• Operational leaders and managers
• Operators
• Work, health and safety professionals
• Private water enterprises
• Trade waste and environmental officers
• Water and wastewater safety specialists
CONFERENCE PROGRAM
• Complete safety-related presentation program
• Safety panel
• Hypothetical safety scenario
POTENTIAL TOPICS
• Visible safety leadership
• Psychosocial safety
• Workplace, health and safety training
• Situational awareness, overhead power strikes
• Extreme weather events
• Electrical safety
• Safer maintenance
• Chemical safety
• Using high pressure water jetter
EXHIBITION
• Selective exhibition with relevant safety industry services, innovations and products
• Showcase your latest innovations to industry representatives in the water industry
WIOA WOMEN IN OPERATIONS IN THE SPOTLIGHT: BRIDEY PEARN
Meet Bridey Pearn, a valuable and high-performing member of the water industry. Bridey is the Coordinator of Water Systems at North East Water (NEW), and a member of NEW’s Women in Operations group. She is a strong leader and advocate for women in water.
Tell us a little bit about your background and what led you to NEW.
Towards my last year of uni I was starting to question how to turn a chemistry degree into a practical and rewarding career outside of the world of laboratories and academia. Turns out all I needed was a couple of passionate environmental lecturers to take us out sampling along Port Phillip Bay and the Yarra River. I was hooked and wanted to know how I could apply these approaches back home.
Thinking about the region I had come from and how water will always service a genuine need, I started asking questions to people in my community who worked at North East Water and researching what treatment-based jobs I could apply for that would be transferable to my skillset. I was fortunate that when I applied, people recognised this enthusiasm and gave me a chance, even though I had limited practical experience.
What roles have you had at NEW?
I have been exposed to a variety of roles, including within mixed-discipline reticulation, water and wastewater treatment teams. I have also spent time working within water quality teams, contributing to operations from a compliance perspective.
What have been some of the biggest challenges working as an Operator?
At times, I have found physical challenges to working as an Operator. Additionally, as someone with limited mechanical prowess, I used to believe these types of limitations diminished my worth to a team. However, what I’ve come to understand is both of these things are not necessarily a weakness — and often expose either a hazard others are disguising behind physical ability (which can be addressed with new controls) or an opportunity to capitalise on expertise that adds value through a new or different perspective (i.e there will be others who can teach you these things on the job, likewise there will be other ways you can contribute in areas that play to your strengths).
What have been the biggest rewards/achievements?
At the start of my traineeship, I was given an opportunity by my mentors to perform a process optimisation project and present our findings in a paper at a WIOA conference. This presented a chance to learn the plant I was operating, draw upon my scientific strengths and provided a platform to begin networking with the broader industry. This remains one of the most rewarding experiences to me, not just because we delivered a successful optimisation outcome, but because my colleagues showed me the value of supporting others (such as a trainee) right at the start of my career.
What do you see for the future of women working in water operations?
I see operators coming from STEM backgrounds becoming more relevant to a diversifying workforce, as we embrace technology and adapt to a changing climate. Women need to be part of this diversification approach, alongside all types of age, experience and personal background —not because we are required to meet a quota, but because we are representative of the population and offer a balanced approach to delivering for our communities.
Have you had any role models or mentors in the water industry?
The water industry seems to draw people in who are equal parts solution-based and people-focused and I have always found people adjacent and above who have been willing to give their time to help me understand a topic or tackle a challenge. The brilliant thing is as an industry we work hard to network and share, and it’s great to know we have many opportunities even beyond our own organisations to find mentors and other like-minded people.
WIOA Women in Water Operations (WiWO) is a national initiative to support women within the operations sector of the water industry. WIOA will be launching WiWO in early 2025, if you are interested please email info@wioa.org.au.
ADVERTISE IN OPERATOR
Operator is WIOA’s quarterly publication that includes individual and corporate member news, general interest stories, water industry news and more.
Produced 3 times a year, it is an effective way of keeping the WIOA community in touch. Advertising will be limited to the equivalent of 7 full pages for each edition. There are 10 advertising opportunities in each edition of Operator.
To provide our corporate members with more opportunities to reach the operational employees, Operator includes a limited number of advertising opportunities in each edition. Scan the QR code below to find out more.
Meet Dale Williams
ACTING TEAM LEADER FOR WASTERWATER TREATMENT FROM TOWNSVILLE CITY COUNCIL
Dale began his career as a qualified boilermaker, but his passion for water reuse in mining led him to explore new horizons.
After completing his trade, Dale spent 5 years in the private sector as a refinery technician, where he honed his expertise in effluent reuse and water filtration. During this time, Dale worked with a variety of advanced filtration systems and internal effluent reuse processes, gaining valuable insight into the intricacies of water management in an industrial setting.
After five years in the mining water industry, Dale transitioned into the wastewater sector, taking on the role of Assistant Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator with Townsville City Council. In this position, he immersed himself in the workings of membrane systems, and gained a comprehensive understanding of wastewater treatment processes and operations.
Dale successfully completed his Certificate III in Water Industry Operations, earning himself a permanent role as a Treatment Plant Operator. While deepening his knowledge of Townsville’s plants, infrastructure and the water industry, Dale was also nominated as the Treatment Plant Health and Safety Representative (HSR). This role offered him a fresh perspective on the industry, particularly the unique safety challenges associated with wastewater operations.
In 2023, Dale stepped up into a higher duties’ role, filling in as Wastewater Treatment Plant Team Leader — a position he has held for the past 18 months. During this time, Dale has contributed to several major projects, including upgrades to blower and aeration systems at Townsville’s treatment plants, the introduction and installation of a recycled water treatment facility at Cleveland Bay, and the re-wetting of a dried membrane system.
In addition to his hands-on contributions, Dale has completed a Certificate IV in Leadership and Management, broadening his understanding of the managerial aspects of the wastewater industry. His efforts and dedication didn’t go unnoticed. In 2024, Dale was honoured with a nomination for the WIOA Queensland Water Operator of the Year (Civil All-Rounder) Award by his team at Townsville City Council. He attended the WIOA Queensland Water Industry Operations Conference and Exhibition on the Sunshine Coast in July, proudly representing his team at the awards evening.
Further recognition came in October 2024, when Dale was named Townsville City Council’s HSR of the Year, acknowledging his commitment to workplace safety and his team. While still early in his career, Dale remains passionate about the future of water and wastewater operations, and the opportunities these vital industries hold.
As part of his role at Townsville City Council, Dale oversees sewage treatment processes across key facilities, including the Condon, Toomulla, Mount St John and Cleveland Bay Treatment Plants. These plants play a critical role in treating sewage, turning it into effluent for reuse or safe release into the environment. All operators and team leaders are laboratory-trained, conducting daily in-house sampling to monitor phosphorus, nitrogen, pH, and turbidity levels, ensuring compliance with environmental standards.
Reflecting on his experience, Dale described his nomination for the WIOA award as a humbling recognition of his hard work. “It’s an honour, because the nomination comes from the people you work with — it’s a great pat on the back. I’m truly grateful for that acknowledgment,” he shared. Like many operators, Dale took the opportunity to spotlight his team at the Cleveland Bay Sewage Treatment Plant, saying, “I wouldn’t be in this position without the incredible work they do behind the scenes. They make my job so much easier by consistently giving 100% and going the extra mile for the team.”
Dale’s journey is a testament to his dedication, leadership and the collaborative spirit that drives excellence in the water industry.
Rapid 5 Q&A with Dale Williams
In your experience, what are some of the most pressing water quality challenges or issues facing the region or industry you work in, and how have you addressed them in your role?
I have a strong belief that in wastewater, we should be targeting 100% effluent reuse. Townsville City Council has been working towards this goal as well, but it will be a long-term plan to achieve this.
The effluent we are making should be used for watering parks, gardens and sports fields, as well as being used for private industry. The main restrictions you see in this is the quality of effluent, the infrastructure needed for reuse and constant monitoring the effluent. Townsville City Council has been working towards this goal and are in the process of building a recycled water treatment facility for effluent reuse at the Cleveland Bay Sewage Treatment Plant, with plans to be operational in early 2025.
Any advice for young operators in the industry facing similar challenges?
Stay persistent with reaching the goal. Always have the conversation about what you are trying to achieve and the process to get to that goal. Even when there are setbacks, remember what the long-term plan is to get there.
How do you stay up to date with the latest regulations and guidelines related to water quality reporting and compliance?
At Townsville City Council we have a very proactive compliance team who are easily accessible. I have been able to work closely with them and be involved in the different adjustments or modifications to our guidelines and reporting structures.
What is your favorite part about working in the Australian Water Industry?
My favourite part of the industry is the fact that there is always something to learn and something to do. Every workday is different to the previous and being able to troubleshoot issues makes for an interesting process.
Any advice for young operators entering the water industry?
Take your time to learn the different processes in the industry, especially those that are relevant to you. No 2 plants will ever be identical and will always differ slightly. Being able to understand the different processes and plant will help you understand when there is an issue or challenge ahead.
2024 VICTORIA water industry operations Conference and Exhibition
2 — 3rd April, 2024 | Bendigo, Victoria
Join your peers at our QLD Water Industry event, fostering information exchange among operational roles in water, wastewater and recycled water sectors.
Our conference and exhibition offers a platform for water professionals to update skills, network with peers and explore cutting-edge technical advancements.
EVENT INCLUDES
• An Operationally focused event program spanning 2 days, including 18+ paper presentations, poster presentations, a keynote speaker and WIOA Members forum
• QLD Women of Water Breakfast
• IXOM Water of Origin Competition
• 2024 QLD Awards Dinner
• QLD Main Tapping Competition
• Free visitor admission to the Expo Hall with over 119 exhibitors showcasing their latest innovations, services and products
• Competitions, entertainment, freebies and charity raffle
Exhibitor sites on sale
Attention WIOA Members! Exhibitor site bookings for our largest and most prestigious event have opened. Join our 2025 VIC Water Industry Operations Conference and Exhibition.
This is your chance to secure a prime spot at Australia’s premier water operations event, taking place on 2–3 April 2025 in Bendigo, Victoria. The event promises to bring together the best and brightest in the water industry, offering unparalleled opportunities to showcase your organisation’s products, services and innovations.
Why exhibit?
• Connect with decision-makers, operators and industry leaders
• Showcase your innovations to a targeted audience of water professionals
• Gain visibility in a fast-evolving industry where innovation is key
• Be part of the solutions addressing skills shortages, energy efficiency, and resource challenges.
This opportunity is prioritised to WIOA Members. Take advantage of this offer and other fantastic benefits, including professional development, discounted event rates and opportunities to feature in our publications.
Don’t miss this chance to put your organisation front and centre at the water industry operations most exciting event. Book your spot today!
For more information about this event, membership or sponsorship email us at info@wioa.org.au or call 03 5821 6744.
Call for abstracts
Do you have a groundbreaking idea, innovative solution, or practical tip that could shake up the Australian water operations sector?
We’re now accepting paper and poster abstracts for the WIOA 2025 VIC Conference in Bendigo!
We encourage new and emerging operators to submit a poster featuring a case study. This is a fantastic opportunity for learning and development, helping to build confidence along the way.
Register to be placed on the waiting list
To make sure you’re set in line to exhibitor if there are any cancellations, visit our Conference and Exhibition webpage via the QR code.
Sponsorship packages
We have a select few spots still available for this conference, which will allow you to pre-select your preferred booth before the booth booking link opens. If you’re interested, scan the QR code to contact us.
Why submit?
• Showcase your experiences, challenges and results
• Contribute to the industry’s collective growth
• Open doors to professional recognition and networking opportunities
Let’s connect together to drive progress down the pipeline. Scan the QR code to learn more and submit your work.
Have you been on our website lately?
We have a range of resources available on our website. Visit wioa.org.au to access all the items listed below.
Jobs board
The Water Industry covers a wide variety of job roles with careers available for both tertiary and trade qualified people working in fields such as operations, engineering, financial, administration and IT. Scan the QR code to see available jobs.
Papers
WIOA conference papers are a great resource for anyone working in operational roles in the water industry.
Authorised technical papers presented at recent WIOA conferences can be accessed on our website. Scan the QR code to access.
Rewirement
Re-Wirement allows experienced operators to be available for part time employment, training sessions or remote mentoring of our next generation of water industry personnel.
Scan the QR code to learn more and express your interest.
Awards
WIOA takes pride in promoting excellence in water industry operations. One of the ways we do this is through our Awards & Recognition program.
Scan the QR code to see our national and state awards.
Events
See our events listing for upcoming WIOA events as well as other important events in the Australian water industry.
Scan the QR code to view our events page.