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Media Release

November 29, 2004

$2.65 million funds UniSA water research centre

South Australia is set to become a national leader in research that will result in better water quality and improved management of South Australia’s water systems.

The State Government and SA Water and will spend $2.65 million to establish a Centre for Water Science and Systems at the University of South Australia.

SA Water chief executive Anne Howe says the development of a Centre for Water Science and Systems will strengthen research into storm water, wastewater management and water recycling, purification and desalination.

“In South Australia we face unique challenges with water,” Ms Howe said, “but some of the things that are difficult for us can also be a great opportunity.”

The State Government recently launched Water Proofing Adelaide’s draft blueprint, A Thirst for Change, which aims to provide Adelaide with a reliable mains water supply beyond 2025 - and reduce future demands on the stressed River Murray.

This draft strategy sets three big targets which will ensure Adelaide has enough water for the next generation while protecting and improving the health of the River Murray and the Adelaide Hills catchments. It is also expected to have economic benefits with increased reuse of treated wastewater and storm water, as well as extensive environmental benefits with water savings and a reduction in stormwater discharged into the sea.

“If we can better manage water resources in South Australia and provide people with the water they need, then those solutions can be used elsewhere in the world. We need to have clever people looking for better, smarter and more efficient ways of dealing with this vital resource,” Ms Howe said.

“It is huge challenge, but I am confident that, through focussed and detailed research, we can improve South Australia’s water supply, improve environmental performance and become a centre of excellence for water science and systems.”

Following a global search, Associate Professor Bill Richards, former Chief Scientist and Director of Scientific Services of Umgeni Water in South Africa and formerly of Wessex Water, England and Strathclyde Water Department in Scotland, has accepted the position of Foundation Director of the newly established Centre for Water Sciences and Systems.

“Professor Richards is an internationally recognised expert in the areas of water science, technology and engineering,” Ms Howe said. “His extensive experience and personal qualities will provide the leadership required for developing high profile programs of research, consultancy and professional education with a strong focus on sustainable water resources science and engineering.

“Efficient use of water is a key issue for South Australia’s future because of our reliance on the vulnerable River Murray,” Ms Howe said. “This initiative by SA Water and the University of SA is an opportunity for us to develop better ways to treat, store and reuse water, which can all contribute to a reduction in the pressure we place on the River Murray.”

Uni SA Pro Vice Chancellor, Professor Ian Davey, said Prof Richards in his role as Foundation Director will provide leadership and specialist research related to water industry needs and a better education environment for water professionals.

“This move ensures SA will have the high quality expertise in water science to provide long-term benefits for the State and enable us to develop technology and skills that can be applied internationally,” Professor Davey said. “The investment by SA Water and the University of South Australia represents a huge commitment to this important issue for Australia and so many other parts of the world.”

Professor Richards says he is looking forward to the challenges ahead.

“I am confident that with the level of commitment demonstrated by SA Water and the University of South Australia, the SA Water Centre for Water Science and Systems will become an internationally recognised water research institution,” he said.

Further information

UniSA contact

 

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