The Wamuran Irrigation Scheme in southeast Queensland, Australia, has commenced operations, diverting over 2 billion litres of treated effluent water annually to agricultural crops. This $120 million initiative, developed by Unitywater and owned by Moreton Bay, Sunshine Coast, and Noosa councils, aims to support local agriculture while reducing nutrient discharge into sensitive ecosystems.
A 22-kilometre pipeline transports Class A treated wastewater from the South Caboolture sewage treatment plant to the Moodlu quarry storage facility and then onto farmland near Brisbane. This infrastructure allows for the annual diversion of approximately 2.6 gigalitres of recycled water, previously discharged into the Caboolture River and Moreton Bay.
Unitywater's chief executive, Anna Jackson, highlighted the environmental benefits, stating that the scheme diverts 11 tons of nitrogen and nearly 2,000 tons of phosphorus annually for agricultural use. She emphasized the quality of the water, describing it as "clear, highly treated water."
The fast-growing region anticipates a population increase from 520,000 to 1 million by 2040, intensifying the demand on sewage infrastructure. The scheme provides a sustainable alternative to traditional wastewater disposal methods and supports the local economy by enhancing agricultural productivity.
Pinata Farms, a participant in the scheme, utilizes the recycled water to irrigate pineapples and berries. General manager Gavin Scurr noted the security this provides against weather variability, stating, "It limits our production, and it limits our ability to deliver consistent fruit to consumers. And what this scheme does is it underpins the water supply."
Mr. Scurr assured the safety of using treated water for irrigation, explaining that the water does not contact with the crops directly. "The water doesn't come in contact with the berry crop at all. It's all put in underneath the plastic," he said.
The scheme initially includes five farms, with Twin View Turf being the first to utilize it extensively. General Manager Lawrence Stephenson reported a shift in agricultural practices, allowing for optimal water use throughout the growing cycle. "It now means that we can use as much water as the plant can sustain to maximize our production through all stages of the growing cycle," Mr. Stephenson stated.
Source: ABC News