CRCWSC and partners at AWA Queensland Awards

Celebrations are in order following the Australian Water Association (AWA) Queensland Water Awards, presented on 8 September, with success for the CRC for Water Sensitive Cities (CRCWSC) and some of its partners.

Among the winners was research that could enable the recovery of vital fertiliser compounds and bioplastics from wastewater, and provide a sustainable source of animal feed.

Purple Phototrophic Bacteria for Resource Recovery from Wastewater, a project led by Damien Batstone and Tim Huelsen from the University of Queensland and the CRCWSC, brought home the AWA Research Innovation Award.

With Queensland Urban Utilities and the Smart Water Fund also partners in the work, the project developed a world-first concept for wastewater treatment that enables non-destructive, low footprint, and highly efficient recovery of resources from wastewater. In other words, a next-generation resource recovery process that can replace existing wastewater treatment technology in the near future.

Also from the University of Queensland’s Advanced Water Management Centre (AWMC), Dr Katrin Doederer received the Young Water Professional of the Year Award for her expertise in water treatment technologies and passion for socialising research outcomes and industry implementation strategies.

And congratulations also went to Professor Zhiguo Yuan, AWMC Director and Leader of the CRCWSC’s Program C research. Prof. Yuan's commitment to innovation in the industry saw him recognised as a finalist in the Water Professional of the Year category.

“The AWA awards recognise the outstanding contribution of individuals and organisations in the water industry across innovation, research, infrastructure, and delivery of water projects,” said AWA Chief Executive Jonathan McKeown.

Congratulations to the CRCWSC team and to our valuable partners for the acknowledgements of their achievements!