The works are part of Unitywater’s $500 million replacements and renewals program being delivered over the next five years to enhance water and wastewater services.
Unitywater Executive Manager Sustainable Infrastructure Solutions, Mike Basterfield, said renewal works were being undertaken on critical operating equipment that supports the plant to process about 11 gigalitres of wastewater each year – the equivalent of 4,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
“The impressive part of this project has been the change in our approach that allowed us to move away from more extensive and costly upgrade options, towards a large-scale renewal program that has delivered significant savings—while keeping the plant operational for our customers,” Mr Basterfield said.
“Through strong collaboration, our planning, operations and capital delivery teams have identified and implemented innovative solutions to optimise the plant’s performance for future demand and requirements, delivering the most cost effective outcome.”
Mr Basterfield said the works, being undertaken by the utility’s delivery partner Abergeldie, include reconfiguration of the inlet works and associated equipment at the first stage of the treatment process where wastewater enters and debris, solids, grit and fats are removed.
“We’re also renewing the secondary clarifiers, which help settle sludge on the bottom and separate it from the wastewater, and one of the bioreactors, an important part of the wastewater treatment process where microorganisms or ‘bugs’ break down wastewater to remove nutrients.”
Mr Basterfield said the solar dryer was also receiving a major renewal.
“This is also an important part of the treatment process where moisture is evaporated from the sludge to produce biosolids, a by-product of wastewater treatment that can be used as fertiliser in agriculture,” he said.
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