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How does wastewater become a resource for farms, parks, and industry? And who makes it happen?

In this episode of Our Water Connection, we shine a spotlight on water operators, the unsung heroes who, in this case, turn wastewater into a valuable resource for parks, farms, and industries.

We are joined by Ben Evans, Lead Operator at South East Water and 2025 WIOA Victorian Operator of the Year. With over 37 years of hands-on experience across regional Victoria, Ben shares how recycled water is produced, why it matters for local communities, and what life is really like behind the scenes at a wastewater treatment plant.

From technical challenges to community impact, this episode celebrates the essential role of operators in regional water resilience.

👷‍♂️ Go behind the scenes of wastewater operations

♻️ Learn how recycled water is safely produced and reused

🌾 Hear why it’s a game-changer for regional communities

This episode was recorded in Kaurna Country and the Kulin Nation.

🎧 Tune in now and stay curious about water! 🌊

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What is really happening with South Australia’s coastal algal bloom, and why does it matter?

Since March 2025, a toxic bloom of Karenia mikimotoi has spread along over 150 km of South Australia’s coastline, killing hundreds of species and upending local fisheries, tourism, and marine ecosystems. 

In this episode, ecologist Faith Coleman helps us understand how this bloom came to be: its causes, its consequences, and what coastal communities and science are doing about it.

We explore the role of marine heatwaves, nutrient run-off, and climate patterns and discuss whether this is a one-time event or a spoiler of what is to come.

🔗 Do you want to learn more about this algal bloom?

• Environment SA: https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/news-hub/news/articles/2025/07/sa-harmful-algal-bloom-update
• The Guardian: https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/news-hub/news/articles/2025/07/sa-harmful-algal-bloom-update
• LinkedIn Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/cold-enough-yet-faith-coleman-hsezc
• Croakey Health Media: https://www.croakey.org/health-experts-sound-alarm-on-algal-bloom-crisis-calling-for-climate-action-and-comprehensive-responses/
• ABC News: https://www.abc.net.au/btn/classroom/sa-algal-bloom/105583560

This episode was recorded in Kaurna Country and Ngarkat Country. 

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What does it mean to build a career that crosses countries, communities, and causes all related to water?

In this special episode of Our Water Connection, we sit down with Daniel Lambert AM, a leading voice in water innovation, sustainability, and inclusive partnerships. Dan shares how a career in water has taken him to work on projects in over 25 countries, from utilities to humanitarian efforts, from infrastructure to industry partnerships, all with purpose at the centre. We explore how water offers one of the most diverse and meaningful paths in engineering, and why the sector must embrace new ways of thinking to meet the challenges ahead.

From building recycled water projects to shaping models of ethical collaboration in the Pilbara, Dan’s story is one of curiosity, courage, and the power of staying true to your WHY. Whether you're a student, a seasoned professional, or someone curious about water, this episode is full of insights into how engineering can adapt, evolve, and create lasting impact.

This episode was recorded in Kaurna Country and Kabi Kabi Country.

🎧 Tune in now and stay curious about water! 🌊

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What does the Productivity Commission have to do with water and why does it matter for our future?

In this episode of Our Water Connection, we sit down with Commissioner Joanne (Jo) Chong to unpack the Productivity Commission's role in shaping Australia’s water policy. From the economics behind water pricing to the future of national reform, we explore how productivity thinking can support a more sustainable, secure, and efficient water sector.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• How an economic and policy advisory body influences major water decisions
• What “productivity” actually means when it comes to managing water
• Why pricing and cost recovery matter more than you might think
• The story (and future) of the National Water Initiative

Discover how policy shapes the water we all depend on and why it deserves a place in the national conversation.

This episode is recorded in Kaurna Country.

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Can artificial intelligence really help us solve pressing water challenges like scarcity, climate extremes, and operational inefficiencies?

In this episode of Our Water Connection, we are joined by Zdravka Doquang, Global Innovation Officer at SUEZ. We explore how AI is reshaping the future of water operations. With over 30 years of experience across research, innovation, and technical support, Zdravka brings deep insight into the evolving role of technology in the water sector.

Together, they dive into questions like:

💧 How are water systems typically operated today?

🤖 Is AI replacing human operators or making their work smarter?

🌍 What role does AI play in climate adaptation and resource resilience?

From practical examples to big-picture thinking, this conversation unpacks the promises, challenges, and exciting developments at the intersection of AI and water.

This episode is recorded in Kaurna Country.

🎧 Tune in now and stay curious about water! 🌊

#OurWaterConnection #WaterCuriosity #WaterManagement #KnowledgeSharing #WaterProfessionals #WaterLiteracy

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How can empowered communities shape the future of water management, and why does it matter more than ever?

In this episode of Our Water Connection, we explore the vital role of communities in building climate-resilient, sustainable water systems. We are joined by Professor Briony Rogers, CEO of Fire to Flourish and Director of MSDI Water at Monash University, to unpack how genuine community engagement, systems thinking, and Indigenous knowledge can drive real transformation.

Tune in to discover how shifting power to the people could be the key to solving our biggest water challenges.

This episode is recorded in Kaurna Country, Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong Boon Wurrung Country.

🎧 Tune in now and stay curious about water! 🌊

#OurWaterConnection #WaterCuriosity #WaterManagement #KnowledgeSharing #WaterProfessionals #WaterLiteracy

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How is Aotearoa New Zealand transforming its water sector—and what can we learn from it?

In this episode of Our Water Connection, we dive into the ambitious water reforms happening in New Zealand. We are joined by Gillian Blythe, Chief Executive of Water New Zealand, to unpack how drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater are managed, what’s driving reform, and how Māori water rights are being integrated into governance.

Tune in to learn how New Zealand is reshaping its water future and what lessons it might offer the rest of the world.

This episode is recorded in Kaurna Country, and we acknowledge the mana whenua in NZ.

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How can water help cool cities, fight climate change, and improve urban livability?

In this episode of Our Water Connection, water expert Greg Ingleton from Sydney Water explores the powerful role of water in urban climate resilience. Learn how smart water management, recycled water systems, and green infrastructure can reduce urban heat, improve community health, and create more livable, sustainable cities.

• We dive into Australia’s groundbreaking Aerotropolis project
• Simple ways to use water for cooling at home
• Design tips for creating climate-adapted spaces.

Whether you are interested in urban planning, sustainable living, climate change solutions, or integrated water cycle management, this episode offers valuable insights and practical ideas.

This episode is recorded in Kaurna Country and the land of Colombia’s Indigenous peoples.

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¿Qué pasa cuando una ciudad rodeada de montañas, alimentada por ríos y conocida por sus lluvias comienza a quedarse sin agua?

En este episodio de Our Water Connection, centramos la conversación en Colombia (mi país natal) para explorar los desafíos actuales que enfrenta Bogotá en torno al agua. Me acompaña el Profesor Juan Saldarriaga, un referente en sistemas hidráulicos urbanos con más de 25 años de experiencia en distribución de agua y drenaje urbano.

Hablamos sobre:

• Los factores detrás de la crisis de agua en Bogotá
• Los impactos en la población y la industria
• El papel del cambio climático frente a la infraestructura y la gobernanza
• Estrategias para mejorar la resiliencia frente a futuras sequías

Este episodio fue grabado en Kaurna Country y en el territorio de los pueblos indígenas de Colombia.

🎧 Tune in now and stay curious about water! 🌊

#OurWaterConnection #WaterCuriosity #WaterManagement #KnowledgeSharing #WaterProfessionals #WaterLiteracy

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Intro/Outro music credit to Leva

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What happens when a city surrounded by mountains, fed by rivers, and known for rain suddenly starts running out of water?

In this episode of Our Water Connection, we turn our focus to Colombia - my home country - to explore Bogotá’s current water challenges. Joining me is Professor Juan Saldarriaga, a leading expert in urban hydraulic systems with over 25 years of experience in water distribution and urban drainage.

We discuss:

• The factors behind Bogotá’s water crisis
• The impacts on residents and industries
• The role of climate change vs. infrastructure and governance
• Strategies to improve resilience in future droughts

This episode is recorded in Kaurna Country and the land of Colombia’s Indigenous peoples.

🎧 Tune in now and stay curious about water! 🌊

#OurWaterConnection #WaterCuriosity #WaterManagement #KnowledgeSharing #WaterProfessionals #WaterLiteracy

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Intro/Outro music credit to Leva