Microbial pathogens are the biggest public health threat faced by most drinking water supplies and one of the most important is Cryptosporidium. These parasites call humans and cattle home and are spread via faecal matter. While investing in this crypto can't make you a millionaire, it can prevent a Cryptosporidosis outbreak. Cryptosporidosis is a gastrointestinal illness that is caused by ingested Cryptosporidium parasites burrowing into the intestinal walls. Because of the

I had the opportunity to attend the AWA North Queensland Regional Conference this year, held in beautiful Townsville. The city put on a great show for the event, with a fantastic venue overlooking Magnetic Island and weather so good it was hard to believe it was still winter! The conference touched on a wide range of topics relevant to water operations in regional areas, particularly North Queensland. The keynotes covered topics including disaster management during the unprec

Improvement or continuous improvement is a key component (or requirement) of a management system/plan, for example, a drinking water quality management system, recycled water management system and an environment management system. The concept of continuous improvement is not a new one and we have all heard about it. When we develop a management plan, the assessment of the system may indicate that existing practices and control measures may not be adequate to achieve the objec

Is it nerdy to go and look at ‘water stuff’ when you’re on holiday? No, of course not, here’s what I have found out about Chicago’s water supply with some snaps. Chicago sits on Lake Michigan, and sources its drinking water from this, the second largest of the Great Lakes. A key feature are the cribs that are visible from the waterfront, which are the structures that house the offshore intakes. These circular stone structures protect intake vents that connect with brick-lined

Last month I made the trek out to the Darling Downs with my family to attend Opera at Jimbour, a biennial spectacular presented by Opera Queensland as part of the Queensland Music Festival and in partnership with Western Downs Regional Council. The festival, held on the historic Jimbour Homestead and attracting up to 8000 guests, is an experience to say the least. The grandeur of Jimbour house and the droves of music lovers, dressed to impress, sampling the finest of food and