Avsnitt
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This special episode of Our Water Connection is part of Podcasthon, a global movement where podcasters spotlight organisations working to make the world better.
To mark the occasion, we’re exploring the work of Engineers Without Borders Australia, an organisation that shows engineering is not just about technical solutions, but about people, partnerships, and long-term impact.
We are joined by Jack Nugent, Senior Manager for International Engineering Programs at EWB, and Meg Cummins, a water engineer at Aurecon who spent a year volunteering in Cambodia.
Together we discuss:
What Engineers Without Borders doesWhy community-led engineering mattersWater and sanitation challenges across the Asia–PacificWhat volunteering can teach young engineersWhat the water sector can learn from humanitarian engineeringWe explored what it really means to engineer with communities rather than for them, and how humanitarian engineering experiences can reshape our thinking about water, development, and the role of engineers in society. This conversation is about listening, collaboration, and designing solutions that truly last.
Get involved
Interested in supporting or learning more about Engineers Without Borders?
Visit: https://www.ewb.org.au
There are many ways to get involved, from volunteering and joining local chapters to supporting their programs.
Send us a message!
🎧 Tune in now and stay curious about water! 🌊
#OurWaterConnection #WaterCuriosity #WaterManagement #KnowledgeSharing #WaterProfessionals #WaterLiteracy
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What’s keeping the water industry up at night? And how can young professionals help bring water into focus this National Water Week?
In this Season Two Finale, we bring together three generations of AWA Young Water Professionals of the Year: Chelsea Hayward (2023), Sam Skinner (2024), and Jess Bohorquez (2025) our host, for a special conversation on the challenges, opportunities, and impact of YWPs across the sector.
From tackling water security and climate resilience to attracting new talent and advocating beyond the industry, this episode dives into how the next generation is driving change and shaping the future of water.
To round out the conversation, AWA President Kevin Werksman joins the discussion, sharing reflections on leadership, visibility, and the role of initiatives like the Chris Davis AM Fellowship, which has supported this season and helped secure the podcast’s future.
Recorded across Kaurna Country, Naarm (Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), and Cammeraygal Country, this National Water Week special episode celebrates the people and ideas bringing water into focus for all of us.
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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What keeps the water industry up at night?
How can young water professionals shape the future of our sector?
And how do we make sure everyone (not just those of us in the industry) truly values water?
Tune in NEXT WEEK for the Season Two Finale Episode with:
✨ Chelsea Hayward (2023 YWP of the Year), process engineer at Jacobs and global volunteer currently based in Cambodia.
✨ Sam Skinner (2024 YWP of the Year), Associate Process Engineer at Aurecon and leader in sustainable water innovation.With the special appearance of Kevin Werksman, President of the Australian Water Association!
Tune in for inspiration, insights, and some honest reflections on where the water sector is headed and the role of the next generation in getting us there.
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🎧 Tune in now and stay curious about water! 🌊
#OurWaterConnection #WaterCuriosity #WaterManagement #KnowledgeSharing #WaterProfessionals #WaterLiteracy
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What does real innovation look like in the water sector, and what’s holding it back?
In this special 40th episode of Our Water Connection, we celebrate a unique milestone with a cross-podcast connection! Our host, Jess Bohorquez, was recently invited to be the guest on Episode 40 of Executive Exchange, an Isle Utilities podcast and to mark the occasion, we have invited their host, Dr. Piers Clark, to join us!
Piers is a global leader in water innovation. As the founder and former Chairman of Isle Utilities, he has worked with over 350 utilities around the world to accelerate the adoption of emerging technologies. From Thames Water to private equity and the creation of the pioneering Technology Approval Group (TAG), Piers brings unmatched insight into what it takes to drive real change in the water sector.
In this episode, we explore:
What innovation means in the water sectorWhy it's so hard to scale new technologiesThe role of regulation, risk, and leadership in enabling innovationWhat sets successful innovators apartAnd Piers' message to the next generation of water professionalsThis episode was recorded on Kaurna Country.
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How do we protect our drinking water from one of the smallest but most stubborn threats?
In this episode of Our Water Connection, Dr Yulia Shutova shares her expertise on Cryptosporidium — a microscopic parasite that has challenged water utilities worldwide. With her background in water treatment and advanced monitoring, Yulia unpacks how the industry tackles this pathogen and keeps our water safe.
We discuss:
What Cryptosporidium is and why it’s so difficult to treatKey lessons learned from past outbreaks in Australia and overseasHow water treatment plants monitor and control for CryptosporidiumRecent innovations and future research directionsThe role of collaboration across science, utilities, and regulationWe mentioned the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines quite a bit on this episode - you can have a look at them here: https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/about-us/publications/australian-drinking-water-guidelines
We also talked about a talk by Professor Karl G. Linden. University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, USA.
Learn how the water sector stays one step ahead of invisible threats and why vigilance is key to keeping our drinking water safe.
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Can we redesign the way cities use water, not just to save it, but to reuse it, regenerate it, and make our communities more liveable?
In this episode of Our Water Connection, we explore how Integrated Water Management (IWM) is changing the way we plan and build our cities. We speak with Celeste Morgan, Arup’s IWM Lead for Australasia and 2025 Australian Water Professional of the Year, about what IWM really means, how it’s reshaping infrastructure, and why it’s key to building circular and climate-resilient cities.
From stormwater reuse to governance challenges, this conversation brings together policy, planning, and personal reflections on how to shift from siloed systems to integrated thinking.
Tune in to hear:
What integrated water management is and how it works in practiceHow our cities can become more circular and climate-resilientWhy changing how we value water infrastructure is essentialThis episode was recorded in Kaurna Country and Wurundjeri Boonwurrung Country.
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🎧 Tune in now and stay curious about water! 🌊
#OurWaterConnection #WaterCuriosity #WaterManagement #KnowledgeSharing #WaterProfessionals #WaterLiteracy
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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.
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🎧 Tune in now and stay curious about water! 🌊
#OurWaterConnection #WaterCuriosity #WaterManagement #KnowledgeSharing #WaterProfessionals #WaterLiteracy
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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-updateThe Guardian: https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/news-hub/news/articles/2025/07/sa-harmful-algal-bloom-updateLinkedIn Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/cold-enough-yet-faith-coleman-hsezcCroakey 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/105583560This 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.
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🎧 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 decisionsWhat “productivity” actually means when it comes to managing waterWhy pricing and cost recovery matter more than you might thinkThe story (and future) of the National Water InitiativeDiscover 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.
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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.
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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 projectSimple ways to use water for cooling at homeDesign 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 BogotáLos impactos en la población y la industriaEl papel del cambio climático frente a la infraestructura y la gobernanzaEstrategias para mejorar la resiliencia frente a futuras sequíasEste episodio fue grabado en Kaurna Country y en el territorio de los pueblos indígenas de Colombia.
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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 crisisThe impacts on residents and industriesThe role of climate change vs. infrastructure and governanceStrategies to improve resilience in future droughtsThis episode is recorded in Kaurna Country and the land of Colombia’s Indigenous peoples.
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Can We Ever Make Water 100% Safe?
In this episode of Our Water Connection, we dive into the world of water risk with The Water Risk Doctor herself, Dr. Annette Davison. With over 35 years of expertise in water safety, governance, and risk management, Annette shares invaluable insights on how we recognize, assess, and communicate water-related risks.
From understanding what risk really means to tackling uncertainty and responsibility in water management, this episode explores the critical decisions that shape our water future.
Key topics include:
💧 Defining water risk and why it matters
🌍 Who is responsible for managing water safety
⚖️ Balancing uncertainty in risk communication
This episode is recorded in Kaurna Country and Guringai Country.
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What if the key to transforming lives was as simple as access to clean water?
In this special edition of Our Water Connection, we join the global Podcasthon initiative - uniting thousands of podcasters to raise awareness for important causes. And what better organization to spotlight than WaterAid Australia, a leader in providing sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) solutions across the Asia-Pacific region?
Our guest, Tom Muller, Chief Executive of WaterAid Australia, shares the inspiring story behind WaterAid’s mission, the life-changing impact of clean water, and the challenges and innovations shaping the future of WASH initiatives. We also explore powerful, community-driven solutions that are making a real difference.
💧 Want to support WaterAid’s mission? Donate today at www.wateraid.org/au/donate.
This episode is recorded in Kaurna Country and Wurundjeri and Bunurong country of the Kulin Nation.
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What does Net Zero really mean for the water sector, and how can we get there?
In this episode, we dive into the journey toward Net Zero with Kate Smith, a leading decarbonization and climate resilience expert from Aurecon. We break down Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, explore the biggest challenges water utilities face, and highlight innovative technologies making a difference.
Whether you're a water professional or just curious about sustainability, this episode will give you valuable insights into the future of a low-carbon water sector. Tune in and join the conversation!
This episode was recorded in Kaurna Country and Yirriganydji Country.
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How do we design cities that work in harmony with water, rather than against it?
In this episode of Our Water Connection, we explore Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) with Mellissa Bradley, Senior Asset Planner at SA Water and the Program Director of Water Sensitive SA.
With over 30 years of experience in stormwater and wastewater reuse, Mellissa is at the forefront of developing integrated water management solutions for Greater Adelaide.
Together, we dive into:
💧 What Water Sensitive Urban Design is and why it matters
🏙️ The shift from traditional hard-engineering solutions to nature-based approaches
🔍 Challenges in implementing WSUD and how communities can get involved
This episode was recorded in Kaurna Country and Peramangk Country.
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Intro/Outro music credit to Leva - Visa fler
