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Water recycling project applauded with top award
July 20, 2009

THE landmark Mackay Water Recycling Project has been recognised for its innovation, clinching the major award at the Infrastructure of Public Works Engineering Australia - Queensland (IPWEAQ) Excellence Awards.

The Excellence Awards recognise leading engineering projects undertaken by Local Government's in Queensland.

Mayor Col Meng is delighted with the result, which reaffirms the Mackay Water Recycling Project's excellence in industry best practice.

"To beat 16 other finalists is a fantastic achievement and something for all involved to be very proud of."

"The Mackay Water Recycling Project is the culmination of 10 years of planning, and credit should be given to the previous council for its foresight and commitment."

Tenix Alliance-John Holland Joint Venture was instrumental in delivering the $154 million project, which is one of the country's major environmental, economical and socially beneficial wastewater reuse schemes.

Northern Region General Manager for John Holland Chris Evans said the hard work that has gone into the project from council staff and our design and construction team has resulted in an award winning project, recognised by their peers as being outstanding.

"I am sure the quality of the workmanship is a source of pride to the workers employed, who predominantly came from the Mackay region," Mr Evans said.

The construction team had to overcome the massive challenge of repairing the flood damage incurred in 2008 whilst still progressing construction as quickly as possible.

CEO of Tenix Alliance Ross Taylor said he is also very pleased to be part of the award-winning Mackay Water Recycling Project.   

"Tenix Alliance will also continue to play an important role as operator of the recycling facilities," Mr Taylor said.

"The Mackay North and South recycling plants will provide real benefits to the community and the environment over the coming decades, and will play a key role in water management in the Mackay region."    

The MWRP recycles up to 90 per cent of the city's wastewater for irrigation purposes, providing a reliable water source for nearby farmers

It was a collaboratively funded project between council, Queensland Government and Australian Government.

"Benefits of this project are huge as it protects the Great Barrier Reef from over 250 tonnes of nutrients and 150 tonnes of suspended solids every year." Cr Meng said.

Judges of the submission commented the Mackay Water Recycling Project as a major initiative of Mackay Regional Council that generated good partnerships with local businesses including the local abattoir and the sugar cane industry.

IPWEAQs CEO Suzanna Barnes-Gillard said the recycling scheme was a shining example of the three tiers of government working for the one outcome.

"This ambitious and highly successful MWRP project demonstrated excellence in planning, design, communication and project management to gain significant social and environmental benefits and is highly deserving of this Engineering Excellence award."

The Excellence Award to be presented at the official MWRP launch on July 23.

Now the community has its chance to inspect the award-winning project.

Free guided tours for the general public will take place on August 4, 6 and 9 from 10am - 12noon.

Cr Meng encouraged residents to take the time to learn more about the $154 million initiative.

"I encourage you to book a seat on the bus so you can hear about the Mackay Water Recycling Project and understand why it's a necessity to our region and to the longevity of our reef."