Experts pitch their water solutions

Monday, 22 October 2007

The University of Adelaide will host two events this week to address the critical drought in South Australia and examine new technologies in smarter water management. Both events are being held to celebrate National Water Week 2007.

Water Wednesday on 24 October is a public forum organised by the University's Water Research Cluster, focused on the future of water supplies for the State. Government, industry and ecological perspectives will be discussed in the 90-minute seminar on Wednesday evening in the G04 Napier Lecture Theatre, from 6pm-7.30pm.

Guest presenters will include the Minister for the River Murray and Water Security, the Hon. Karlene Maywald; Mr Chris Stathy from world-class pipeline manufacturer Philmac Pty Ltd; University of Adelaide Associate Professor David Paton, who will discuss the impact of the drought on the Coorong; and Dr Rod Oliver from CSIRO on the health and future of the Murray-Darling Basin.

Under discussion will be the water options for South Australia; the actions needed to ensure a sustainable future for our cities, farmers, mines, rivers and lakes; the role of science and government in guaranteeing water supplies; and how individuals can play a part.

The following day, on Thursday 25 October, the Water Research Cluster will jointly host Water Pitchfest with the Water Industry Alliance, showcasing emerging technologies in smarter water management.

New developments in desalination, filtration, sensors and water storage will be among the water-smart ideas presented in short "pitches". Video footage from the invitation-only event will be available online from the respective University of Adelaide and Water Industry Alliance websites this Friday 26 October.

"Research on smart water management and use is more in demand than ever," says Anne Jensen from the Water Research Cluster.

"The Prime Minister has declared that the Murray-Darling Basin is in drought crisis and every capital city in Australia is investigating desalination as the short to mid-term alternative water source.

"The University of Adelaide's Water Research Cluster continues to develop partnerships for research projects in water-related fields, and to promote knowledge of current water issues," Mrs Jensen says.

For more information, contact Anne Jensen on 0407 170 706 or visit www.water.adelaide.edu.au. There will be a limited number of media spots available at the Pitchfest event. Water Wednesday is open to the public.

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