New South Wales Archives - Aqua Analytics

Challenge

Airports, as bustling hubs of activity, rely on intricate water infrastructure networks to support their multifaceted operations. During routine resurfacing work, a critical water supply line at this major airport developed a leak, jeopardising the smooth functioning of essential services. The leak posed a serious threat of disruption to flight schedules, passenger services, and the airport’s overall operational efficiency. The urgency of the situation, coupled with the necessity to minimise disruption during peak hours, required a swift and specialised night-work solution.

Solution

Recognising the criticality of the situation, the airport turned to Aqua Analytics. Understanding the unique challenges of working within a high-stakes environment like an airport, and with the appropriate security clearances, Aqua Analytics swiftly mobilised. Our approach required:

Fast Response: Aqua Analytics prioritised the urgency of the situation, promptly assembling a team of experienced professionals and deploying them to the airport.
Night Operations: To avoid any disruptions to daytime airport operations, the team worked diligently during the night, utilising acoustic leak detection equipment.
Prompt Repair: Once the leak was accurately located, the team provided a detailed report to the airport's maintenance crew, facilitating a prompt and targeted repair. The leak was successfully addressed within the allotted timeframe, ensuring minimal disruption to the airport's vital resurfacing operations.

Results

Client Quote: “We entrusted Aqua Analytics with monitoring several water mains during our two-week HDD project. Their daily reports gave the water utility the assurance they needed, confirming our work caused no damage. We will definitely use Aqua Analytics again in the future.”

Client Benefits

Operational Continuity: The swift response and effective leak repair safeguarded the airport's operations, preventing potential disruptions to critical services and maintaining passenger satisfaction.
Peace of Mind: The client was reassured knowing their critical water infrastructure was proactively managed and protected by a team of professionals.
Expert Solutions for Airport Infrastructure: The project showcases Aqua Analytics' specialised expertise in handling water infrastructure challenges in sensitive and high-stakes environments like airports.

Conclusion

The successful resolution of this leak at a major Sydney airport underscores the criticality of robust water infrastructure for seamless airport operations. Aqua Analytics’ swift response and expertise in leak detection averted potential disruptions to essential services, demonstrating the importance of proactive water supply management in high-stakes environments.

Airports, as complex and dynamic hubs, require specialised solutions to maintain the integrity of their water pipelines. Aqua Analytics offers a comprehensive suite of services, including real-time leak monitoring, pipeline condition assessment, and data-driven insights, enabling airports to safeguard their critical water infrastructure, minimise downtime, and ensure operational continuity. By partnering with Aqua Analytics, airports can proactively manage their water networks, optimise maintenance, and reduce costs, ultimately enhancing the passenger experience and contributing to overall operational success.

Challenge

The client was tasked with horizontal directional drilling (HDD) operations in close proximity to critical water mains. The water utility asset owner mandated a proactive monitoring solution to prevent damage and ensure the integrity of their infrastructure throughout the construction process.

Solution

The client partnered with Aqua Analytics to implement a personalised asset monitoring system leveraging the power of Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) technology for reliable data transmission and communication. The solution included:

NB-IoT Devices: Strategically placed sensors continuously monitored the condition of the water mains, even when located 1.5 meters underground and beneath 25-millimeter steel road plates.
Automated Alerts: Daily SMS and email alerts provided the project team with real-time insights into the status of the water mains, enabling immediate response to any potential issues.
Monitoring-as-a-Service: Aqua Analytics managed every aspect of the project, from device deployment and data collection to analysis and reporting.

Results

Zero Capital Outlay: The monitoring-as-a-service model eliminated upfront costs for the client.
Fully Managed Solution: The client's project team received comprehensive reports daily, including weekends, without allocating additional resources to the monitoring process.
100% Data Reliability: The robust NB-IoT technology ensured consistent and accurate data transmission despite the challenging underground environment.
Zero Damage to Water Mains: The Aqua Analytics solution demonstrated that the HDD operations did not compromise the water mains.

Client Benefits

Risk Mitigation: Proactively addressed concerns about potential damage to critical water infrastructure.
Cost-Effectiveness: The monitoring-as-a-service model provided a comprehensive solution without requiring significant capital investment.
Peace of Mind: The client's team could focus on their core construction tasks, confident that the water mains were continuously monitored and protected.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ innovative monitoring solution allowed the client to successfully execute their HDD project while upholding the highest standards of environmental responsibility and stakeholder collaboration. This case study exemplifies the power of technology in safeguarding critical infrastructure and ensuring the smooth completion of complex construction endeavours.

Challenge

The council urgently needed to address escalating non-revenue water (NRW) levels within its water distribution network. Upon investigation, it became apparent that numerous pressure management valves (PRVs) and associated devices across various sites were neglected and inoperable. This compromised the council’s ability to regulate water pressure effectively, leading to increased leakage, pipe bursts, and unnecessary water waste.

Solution

Aqua Analytics was engaged to assess and advise on the current state of the council’s pressure management infrastructure and identify enhancements to achieve an ideal future state. The project adopted a multi-phased approach:

Comprehensive Site Assessment: Aqua Analytics conducted a thorough on-site assessment of PRVs and associated equipment across various locations within the network. This involved identifying faulty equipment, diagnosing malfunctions, and assessing the overall state of the pressure management system. This included assessing 2G devices that had not been operational for extended periods.
Data Collection and Analysis: To gain a deeper understanding of the network's pressure profile, Aqua Analytics deployed pressure data loggers at strategic points. This data collection effort focused on areas where the council sought to establish or recommission Pressure Management Areas (PMAs). The collected data provided critical insights into pressure levels at PRV inlets and outlets, average zonal pressure (AZP), and critical pressure points (CPP).
Repair and Recommissioning: Aqua Analytics worked closely with council personnel and equipment manufacturers to identify repair and rectification requirements. This involved obtaining costs to replace outdated components, adjusting settings, and ensuring proper functionality to regulate water pressure effectively.
Detailed Reporting and Recommendations: A comprehensive report detailing the findings of the site assessment, data analysis, and recommended actions was prepared for the council. This report included a costed plan for returning all assets online and optimising pressure management across the network.

Results

Improved Pressure Management: The council will regain control over their water pressure by repairing and recommissioning the neglected PRVs and associated equipment, significantly reducing the risk of leaks and bursts.
Reduced NRW: The optimised pressure management system will substantially decrease non-revenue water, resulting in water conservation and cost savings.
Enhanced Data Insights: Delivering pressure data loggers will provide valuable information for future network improvements, hydraulic model validation, and investment prioritisation. This data could be viewed in a central council software platform for water network operations.

Client Benefits

Increased Network Efficiency: The project will assist in a more efficient and reliable water distribution network, ensuring consistent water pressure and supply for customers.
Cost Savings: When recommendations are implemented, the reduction in NRW and improved asset management will translate to significant cost savings for the council.
Proactive Maintenance: The project highlighted the importance of ongoing maintenance for pressure management equipment, enabling the council to implement a proactive approach to asset management. It was highlighted that a custodian for the PRVs should be assigned, and PRVs and DMAs should be treated as "assets" to ensure an appropriate management plan is developed and adhered to.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ expertise in pressure management and data analysis was crucial in helping revitalise the council’s water infrastructure. By addressing the neglected PRVs and providing a clear roadmap for optimisation, Aqua Analytics empowered the council to achieve their NRW reduction goals and ensure a more sustainable water supply for their community. The consulting project highlighted the need for the council to take a different approach to their DMA management, ensuring that future investments are managed correctly and that appropriate resources are assigned to provide suitable maintenance and upkeep.

Challenge

The client faced a significant challenge in managing water loss across their vast and remote network of trunk mains. These large-diameter pipelines (>DN300), often located in challenging terrains, posed difficulties in leak detection. Traditional methods were time-consuming, costly, and ineffective. The client needed a reliable, efficient, and non-invasive solution to pinpoint leaks accurately across a 150km stretch of their network.

Solution

Aqua Analytics was engaged to conduct a comprehensive leak detection program across the reticulation and trunk assets. Aqua used the TM2 Trunk Main Correlator to address the trunk’s main assets to address the trunk main assets. This advanced acoustic technology offered a personalised solution to the client’s specific challenges:

Tough Terrain and Pipe Materials: The TM2 Correlator's robustness and advanced signal processing capabilities allowed for effective leak detection on various pipe materials, including non-metallic pipes, and across challenging terrains often found in remote areas.
Advanced Leak Detection Features: The TM2's intuitive interface and advanced features, like Auto Filter, Spot Filter, and Filtered Listening, significantly improved the accuracy and speed of leak detection. These functions helped technicians quickly identify and pinpoint leaks, even amidst ambient noise and challenging acoustic conditions.
Non-Invasive and Efficient: The TM2 Correlator's non-invasive nature allowed for quick deployment and minimal disruption to the water network. The wireless communication and magnetic sensor attachments simplified the setup process, enabling efficient surveying of large areas.
Expert Analysis and Reporting: Aqua Analytics' team of experienced leak detection specialists analysed the data collected by the TM2 Correlator, providing the client with detailed reports and precise leak locations.

Results

30 Leaks Identified and Located: Across the 150km stretch of surveyed trunk mains, Aqua Analytics successfully identified and located 30 leaks of various sizes, including 2 litres per minute.
Reduced Water Loss: The timely repair of these leaks significantly reduced water loss, resulting in cost savings and improved resource management for the client.
Enhanced Network Efficiency: By addressing the identified leaks, the client could optimise the efficiency of their trunk main network, ensuring a reliable water supply to their customers.
Blind Testing: The client undertook a number of 'blind tests' to assess the solution's effectiveness and to help build confidence in the detectability of leaks across long correlation distances.

Client Benefits

Cost-Effective Leak Detection: The TM2 Correlator's non-invasive nature and efficient operation resulted in cost savings compared to traditional leak detection methods.
Minimised Disruption: The technology allowed for leak detection without disrupting the water supply and surrounding environment.
Accurate and Reliable Results: The TM2's advanced features and algorithms provided accurate and reliable leak locations, ensuring targeted repairs and minimising unnecessary excavation.
Improved Asset Management: The detailed leak data collected by the TM2 Correlator informed the client's asset management strategies, enabling proactive maintenance and repair decisions. This included providing audio files from all main sections for the client's records and comparison against any future inspections.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ successful deployment of the TM2 Trunk Main Correlator in a remote setting highlights the technology’s effectiveness in addressing the unique challenges of water loss management. The project demonstrates the value of combining cutting-edge technology with experienced personnel to achieve optimal results in reducing non-revenue water and ensuring water infrastructure sustainability. Many of the correlations were over 800 meters in distance, allowing vast network lengths to be inspected cost-effectively by a three-person team. Additionally, all leak reporting was captured spatially with GPS coordinates to assist with easily and accurately identifying defects, which is important in rural environments.

Challenge

The water utility faced a critical situation with two adjacent water mains (DN600 and DN100) that had each experienced catastrophic failures within 12 months. These failures caused significant service disruptions costly repairs, and posed a potential risk to public safety in a high-profile area of Sydney. The utility urgently needed a proactive solution to monitor the mains’ condition while renewal planning was underway.

Solution

Aqua Analytics was engaged to develop and implement a real-time leak and burst monitoring strategy for the two critical water mains. The solution involved:

Deployment of Advanced Monitoring Technology: Aqua Analytics strategically deployed a combination of Ovarro Enigma Accelerometers and Enigma HYQ3 Hydrophones across both water mains. These sensors continuously monitored the pipelines for acoustic signals indicative of leaks or developing bursts.
Real-Time Data Transmission: The sensors transmit data daily via the cellular network to Ovarro's LeakVision software platform. This platform provided real-time visualisation and analysis of the data, allowing Aqua Analytics to identify anomalies and potential issues promptly.
24/7 Monitoring and Alerts: Aqua Analytics' team of experts continuously monitored the data from the LeakVision platform, providing 24/7 surveillance of the water mains. Automated alerts were triggered in response to significant changes in acoustic signals, ensuring immediate notification of potential leaks or bursts.
Proactive Response and Repair: Aqua Analytics promptly notified the water utility upon receiving alerts, enabling rapid response and repair actions. This proactive approach helped prevent small leaks from escalating into major failures, minimising disruption to the water supply and reducing repair costs.

Results

Early Leak Detection and Repair: During the monitoring period, a small leak was detected and repaired within days, preventing it from developing into a larger main break.
No Further Catastrophic Failures: The real-time monitoring system prevented any further catastrophic failures of the water mains while renewal planning was underway.
Improved Asset Management: The continuous monitoring data provided valuable insights into the mains' condition, enabling the utility to optimise its asset management strategies and prioritise renewal efforts.
Enhanced Public Safety: By proactively addressing potential leaks and bursts, the project contributed to the safety and well-being of the community in the high-profile area.

Client Benefits

Risk Mitigation: The real-time monitoring system significantly reduced the risk of unexpected main failures, minimising service disruptions and potential safety hazards for the nearby community.
Reputation Management: Preventing further main breaks helped protect the utility’s reputation, avoiding negative media scrutiny and public concern.
Cost Savings: By preventing major failures, the project saved the utility significant costs associated with emergency repairs and water loss.
Proactive Maintenance: The monitoring data enabled a proactive approach to maintenance, ensuring the continued reliable operation of the water mains until their renewal.
Turnkey Solution: Aqua Analytics provided a complete end-to-end solution, including planning, deployment, monitoring, and reporting, minimising the burden on the utility's resources.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ implementation of a real-time leak and burst monitoring system proved to be a critical intervention for the water utility. By leveraging advanced technology and expert analysis, the project successfully prevented further catastrophic failures, reduced water loss, and ensured a reliable water supply to a vital part of Sydney. This case study highlights the importance of proactive monitoring and rapid response in safeguarding critical water infrastructure and minimising community disruptions.

Challenge

The council, responsible for providing water services to a population of over 40,000, was committed to reducing non-revenue water (NRW) losses below their current level of 20%. While recent leak detection efforts had been undertaken, the council sought a comprehensive review of their District Metered Areas (DMAs) and leakage reduction strategy to achieve further water savings.

Solution

Aqua Analytics was engaged to conduct a thorough assessment of the council’s water distribution network and provide actionable recommendations for improvement. The project encompassed:

DMA Configuration Assessment: A meticulous review of existing DMA setups was performed to evaluate their effectiveness in monitoring and leak detection. This involved identifying areas lacking flow metering and recommending the establishment of new DMAs.
DMA Suitability Analysis: The sizing and boundaries of existing DMAs were analysed to ensure accurate flow data capture and optimal leak detection. Recommendations for DMA restructuring were made to enhance monitoring efficiency.
Leak Detection and Monitoring Strategy Review: Current methodologies, particularly Minimum Night Flow (MNF) analysis and the existing quarterly mass balance approach were assessed. Improvements and the potential for more frequent assessments were proposed to better manage water loss.
Detailed Reporting and Recommendations: A comprehensive report outlining findings on DMA effectiveness, areas requiring additional monitoring, and the efficiency of current leak detection methods was delivered. The report also provided actionable recommendations for DMA optimisation, enhanced monitoring strategies, and improved leak detection techniques.
Data-Driven Review Using GIS: A geographic information system (GIS) was used to collate and analyse historical asset data, maps, plans, leak locations, asset repairs, and NRW efforts implemented through the years.

Deliverables

Results

Enhanced DMA Effectiveness: The council gained a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of their existing DMAs, enabling them to prioritise improvements for more accurate monitoring and leak detection.
Strategic Roadmap for Leakage Reduction: The recommendations provided a strategic roadmap for the council to reduce water loss further, encompassing short-term and long-term actions.
Increased Operational Efficiency: The proposed improvements to monitoring and leak detection strategies are expected to streamline operations and reduce costs associated with water loss.

Key Benefits

Proactive Water Management: The project empowered the council to address water loss and improve resource management proactively.
Data-Driven Decision-Making: The detailed analysis and recommendations provided a solid foundation for data-driven decision-making regarding network improvements and water conservation strategies.
Sustainable Practices: The project contributed to the council's sustainability goals and environmental stewardship by reducing water loss.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ consultancy services played a pivotal role in helping the regional council optimise its water network management. The comprehensive assessment and strategic recommendations provided a clear path towards significantly reducing water loss, ensuring a more reliable and sustainable water supply for their community.

Challenge

The council, responsible for providing water services to a large population, recognised the need to update its outdated Water Loss Management Plan (WLMP). The existing plan needs strategic direction and actionable recommendations to optimise its water network efficiency and reduce non-revenue water (NRW) volumes.

Solution

Aqua Analytics was engaged to conduct a thorough review of the council’s outdated water loss management practices and develop a comprehensive tactical plan. The project encompassed:

Data Review and Water Balance Calculations: Aqua Analytics analysed recent water supply data to update the water balance calculation for the entire system and its sub-zones. This involved addressing data discrepancies or assumptions that could be field-validated for improved accuracy.
Prioritised Action Plan: A list of sub-zone investigations and tasks was developed, including recommendations for improved metering, leak detection, real-time IoT monitoring, and data aggregation (and ultimately using a smart water software platform). This action plan focused on areas where the council could significantly reduce water loss.
Real-Time Water Balance Assessment: Aqua Analytics explored opportunities to leverage existing data for real-time water balance monitoring, enabling the council to identify and respond to water loss issues proactively.
Metering and Monitoring Recommendations: Aqua Analytics identified specific sites where additional metering and monitoring could enhance network intelligence and facilitate targeted NRW investigations.
Field Scoping and Feasibility Assessment: A detailed field scoping exercise was conducted at the identified sites, evaluating accessibility, power supply options, communication methods, and ease of installation for the recommended metering and monitoring equipment.

Deliverables

Updated Water Balance Calculations: Accurate and up-to-date water balance calculations for the entire system and individual sub-zones, providing a clear picture of current water loss levels.
Tactical Water Loss Management Plan: A comprehensive plan outlining prioritised actions, timelines, and resource requirements for reducing NRW in the short and medium term.
Feasibility Assessment Report: A detailed report assessing the feasibility of implementing additional metering and monitoring at the identified sites.

Results

Strategic Roadmap for NRW Reduction: The council received a tactical plan with actionable recommendations that served as a roadmap for achieving their water loss reduction goals.
Data-Driven Decision Making: The updated water balance calculations and real-time monitoring recommendations empowered the council to make data-driven network improvements and NRW management decisions.
Enhanced Network Efficiency: Implementing the recommended actions will improve network efficiency, reduce water loss, and save on costs.

Client Benefits

Proactive Water Loss Management: The tactical plan enabled the council to manage water loss proactively rather than reacting to crises.
Optimised Resource Allocation: Prioritising actions ensured that resources were allocated to the most impactful areas for NRW reduction.
Sustainable Practices: The council is committed to sustainable water management practices and environmental stewardship by reducing water loss.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ consulting expertise in water loss management and data analysis was pivotal in assisting the council. By providing a comprehensive tactical plan, Aqua Analytics empowered the council to address their water loss challenges effectively, leading to a more resilient and sustainable water system for their community. The prioritised list of actions and full budgetary scope will allow the council to go directly to the market to procure goods and services to implement their water loss plan in the coming years. This includes smart meters, smart devices, trunk main leak detection, and active leak detection services.

Challenge

The client faced a critical challenge in protecting third-party water infrastructure during construction. A DN100 cast iron water main ran through the construction zone, posing a risk of damage and potential service disruptions. The client sought a proactive solution to monitor the water main’s condition before, during, and after construction, mitigating the risk of leaks and ensuring the asset’s integrity. Additionally, the client needed to satisfy the asset owner, Sydney Water, that the methodology was sound and appropriate for the asset.

Solution

Aqua Analytics was engaged to provide a comprehensive acoustic monitoring and advisory service designed to safeguard the water main throughout the construction project. The solution encompassed:

Pre-Construction Leak Detection Inspection: Aqua Analytics conducted a thorough leak detection inspection of the water main before construction commenced. This involved using sensitive acoustic microphones and correlators to pinpoint any existing leaks, ensuring that the asset was in optimal condition before the start of construction activities. No leaks were identified.
Continuous Acoustic Monitoring: Aqua Analytics deployed a network of acoustic noise loggers along the water main. These loggers continuously monitored the pipeline for leak noise during construction.
Real-Time Data Analysis and Alerts: The loggers transmitted data via NB-IoT technology to a cloud-based platform, which was analysed using advanced algorithms. This allowed Aqua Analytics to detect and localise any new leaks that might develop due to construction activities, providing real-time alerts to the client for immediate action.
Daily Analysis and Reporting: Aqua's team reviewed all data daily, and results were sent automatically from our platform via SMS and email.

Results

Successful Protection of Critical Water Asset: Continuous acoustic monitoring and expert advisory services ensured that the water main remained in optimal condition throughout the construction project, preventing leaks or damage.
Real-Time Leak Detection: Aqua Analytics' real-time alerts enabled the client to respond quickly to emerging leaks, minimising water loss and service disruptions.
Improved Asset Management: The detailed data collected during the monitoring period provided valuable insights into the water main's condition, enabling the client to make informed decisions regarding future maintenance and rehabilitation.
Asset Owner Peace of Mind: Aqua Analytics' proactive monitoring and expert advice gave the asset owners peace of mind, as they knew their critical water asset was protected during the construction project.

Client Benefits

Risk Mitigation: The project significantly reduced the risk of water main damage and service disruptions caused by construction activities.
Cost Savings: By preventing leaks and ensuring the long-term health of the water main, the project contributed to cost savings through reduced repair expenses and minimised water loss.
Proactive Asset Management: The project's data-driven insights enabled the client to develop a more effective asset management strategy, prioritising maintenance and investment for optimal performance.
Environmental Stewardship: The project supported the client's commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable resource management by minimising water loss.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ comprehensive acoustic monitoring and advisory services were crucial in safeguarding a critical water asset during a high-risk construction project. By combining advanced technology with expert analysis and proactive recommendations, Aqua Analytics empowered the client to protect their infrastructure and ensure a reliable water supply for their customers.

Challenge

A holiday park operator faced escalating water bills across their extensive network of properties. The unique nature of these sites, often resembling mini-cities with complex infrastructure, made identifying and addressing water loss a significant challenge. The company sought a partner to conduct comprehensive water audits and leak investigations to reduce consumption and costs.

Solution

Aqua Analytics was engaged in a long-term assignment to tackle the water loss issue. Leveraging a multi-disciplinary approach, Aqua Analytics deployed a team of skilled technicians, plumbers, and data analysts to undertake:

Comprehensive Water Audits: Detailed water audits were conducted at each holiday park, encompassing a thorough review of historical water consumption data, analysis of billing information, and site-specific assessments of infrastructure and usage patterns.
Targeted Leak Detection: Aqua Analytics' technicians utilised advanced leak detection technologies, including acoustic listening devices and correlation logging, to pinpoint visible and hidden leaks within the complex network of pipes and fixtures.
Data-Driven Analysis: The collected data was analysed to identify trends, anomalies, and potential areas for improvement in water management practices. This analysis provided actionable insights for the client to implement targeted solutions.
Repairs and Recommendations: Aqua Analytics identified leaks, worked with the client to implement repairs, and provided recommendations for long-term water conservation strategies.

Results

Significant Reduction in Water Consumption: Aqua Analytics' efforts led to a substantial decrease in water consumption across the network of holiday parks, resulting in considerable cost savings for the client.
Identification of Major Leaks: Multiple large, below-ground leaks were discovered, some of which had contributed to significant water loss for extended periods.
Improved Asset Management: The detailed audits and investigations gave the client a better understanding of their water infrastructure, enabling them to prioritise maintenance and upgrades for optimal efficiency.
Sustainable Practices: By reducing water waste, the project contributed to the client's sustainability goals and demonstrated their commitment to responsible resource management.

Client Benefits

Financial Savings: The substantial reduction in water consumption translated into immediate and ongoing cost savings for the client.
Operational Efficiency: Aqua Analytics improved the holiday parks' overall operational efficiency by addressing leaks and optimising water management practices.
Environmental Stewardship: The project's focus on water conservation aligned with the client's commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability.
Peace of Mind: The client gained peace of mind knowing that their water infrastructure was being proactively managed and maintained by a team of experts.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ comprehensive approach to water audits and leak detection proved invaluable for the holiday park operator. By combining technical expertise, advanced technology, and data-driven analysis, Aqua Analytics delivered significant water savings and improved the overall sustainability of the client’s operations. This project is a model for other businesses with complex water networks seeking to optimise their water management practices and reduce costs.

Challenge

The client recognised the need to enhance the NRW (Non-Revenue Water) management skills and knowledge of personnel within various local water utilities (LWUs). Given the LWUs’ wide range of expertise levels and resource constraints, a comprehensive and adaptable training program was required.

Solution

Aqua Analytics developed and delivered a multi-faceted NRW training program personalised to the diverse needs of the participating LWUs. The program included:

In-Person Training Sessions: Six two-day, in-person training sessions were held in Armidale, Newcastle, and Parkes. These sessions provided a deep dive into NRW principles, active leakage control, pressure management, and metering. A key component of these sessions was a practical field visit to observe real-world applications of the concepts.
Online Training Course: Recognising the geographical constraints of some participants, a four-week online course was offered, providing two hours of instruction per week. This flexible format ensured accessibility for a wider audience.
IWA-Guided Curriculum: The training curriculum was developed in alignment with the International Water Association (IWA) Water Loss Specialist Group's best practices, ensuring a globally recognised standard of expertise.
Site Visits: To reinforce theoretical knowledge, site visits were organised to showcase practical examples of pressure management, smart metering, and acoustic leak detection technologies in action.

Results

Improved Knowledge and Competency: Participants significantly increased their understanding of NRW principles, terminology, and best practices. Post-training assessments revealed a greater awareness of key concepts like active leakage control (ALC) and unavoidable annual real losses (UARL).
Increased Confidence: Attendees reported greater confidence in identifying and addressing NRW issues within their respective LWUs.
Enhanced Collaboration: The training fostered a collaborative environment, allowing participants to share experiences and learn from each other's challenges and successes.
Broad Reach: Approximately 100 attendees from various LWUs completed the training, contributing to a wider dissemination of NRW knowledge and skills across the region.

Positive Outcomes

Standardised Terminology: The training program helped establish consistent terminology and understanding of NRW principles among participants.
Practical Application: The hands-on nature of the in-person sessions, particularly the field visits, proved invaluable in reinforcing theoretical concepts and showcasing real-world applications.
Future-Proofing: The training equipped LWUs with the knowledge and skills to manage NRW proactively, ensuring long-term water conservation and resource efficiency.

Quote from Attendee: “Excellent content, well presented. I learned a lot more than I was expecting. Keen to bring ideas back to Council.”

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ comprehensive NRW capacity-building program successfully addressed the diverse needs of local water utilities, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to manage water loss and improve operational efficiency effectively. This project exemplifies a commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration in the water industry, ultimately leading to more sustainable water management practices.