Queensland partners with Nevada to deliver latest water solutions

Queensland innovators will have the opportunity to gain a stake in $500,000 in funding to find ways to improve local urban water supply systems and take their ideas to Nevada, the United States and the world.

Minister for Natural Resources Anthony Lynham announced the funding today when he welcomed the Governor of Nevada Brian Sandoval to a Queensland water innovation workshop.

Innovators and technology industries would work hand-in-hand in a partnership between Queensland and the US state of Nevada, Dr Lynham said.

“Today’s workshop is about partnering internationally to see how we can continue to supply water for the future.

“I am delighted that Governor Sandoval is here today for us to finalise our partnership with the Nevada-based company WaterStart, as part of our Sister State agreement with Nevada.

“This agreement puts urban water supply experts and technology company representatives from Queensland and Nevada in the same room to share ideas, build relationships and create connections.

“These experts will have the opportunity to apply for a share of $500,000 to take their projects to the next stage.’’

The partnership with Nevada is a direct result of the Premier’s visit to that state during a trade mission last year.

Dr Lynham said the decision to partner in water expertise was due in part to Queensland’s and Nevada’s similar, dry, arid climates and water management expertise.

“Queensland’s water is supplied through a $37 billion network of pipes, pumps and treatment plants which pushes out 577,000 megalitres of water annually for use by homes and business across the state.

“This partnership and workshop is about securing long-term water supply solutions and creating jobs.

“We’ve already see Queensland tech company RedEye develop unique water system mapping and design software.

“After testing this system and using it to aid in water planning on home soil, RedEye has now set up operations in Nevada and is taking its expertise to the world.

“The partnership between Queensland Urban Utilities and WaterStart is about creating more success stories,’’ Dr Lynham said.

“The water innovation workshop will see Queensland’s brightest and best innovation experts come together with international experts to work on ways to improve towns and city water supplies across the state.

“The WaterStart partnership will help to speed up the innovation cycle, assist our water utilities to drive efficiencies and better manage risk while providing an opportunity for Queensland’s innovative companies to take our practical management solutions to the world.’’

Queensland Urban Utilities CEO, Louise Dudley, welcomed the Queensland Government’s investment in supporting innovation in the water industry.

“We’re keen to explore the use of smart technology in our water and sewerage network to operate more efficiently and improve customer service,” she said.

“By collaborating with WaterStart, we’ll be able to tap into research and technology around the world, as well as share insights from the research we’re carrying out in our Innovation Precinct at Luggage Point.”

Media enquiries: David Potter 0428 411 617