Published on Wednesday, 6 March 2019 at 8:15:48 AM
The development of a new irrigation system that reduces the need for scheme water has been chosen as a finalist in the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) WA Awards for Excellence.
City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the irrigation system is enabling the sustainable use of water at the Wonthella Sporting complex, one of the City of Greater Geraldton's premier sporting facilities.
“The salinity level in the existing groundwater bores supplying irrigation water is rising which is forcing the use of scheme water to supplement the water supply to irrigate the 15 hectare complex,” he said.
“The development of this new irrigation system involves drawing irrigation water from the top of the aquifer at Wonthella at a rate comparable to the aquifer recharge at the nearby Water Corporation waste water treatment ponds and increases benefits achieved through the tried and tested method of recycling waste water.
“Although it is fantastic to see this project in the running for IPWEA’s annual awards, it’s our community who are the real winners as the system reduces costs whilst improving water quality and the performance of the turf for our footy, soccer, hockey and tennis club users.”
The IPWEA WA Awards provide opportunity for the public works sector and local government to showcase individual contributions to the growth and wellbeing of the Institute, excellence in significant engineering projects, and innovative practices.
The Winners of the Excellence Awards will be announced at the 2019 Annual State Conference Gala Dinner on Friday 15 March 2019.
PICTURE CAPTION: The Wonthella Oval.
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