Australian Water Association NSW State Conference - Reflections

Strengthening Communities through Collaboration and Technology was the theme of the conference held in the land of three rivers. The Wiradjuri Nation area has been described as the land of three rivers , namely Wambool , the Kalare and Murrumbidgee. My travel included meeting the team at Orange City Council, who have successfully demonstarted stormwater to potable due to the last severe water shortage in the region in 2010. This was very apt as 98 % of NSW is officially in drought. Many of the presentations highlighted the various technology options that were available to deal with the issues. The reality of extreme temperatures and lower rainfall has been identified as the primary cause of the drought. Climate change was identified as a real risk to the $24 Billion agricultural sector in NSW. Being a systems thinker, I could not but ask the question if there has been any studies done on the changes to forest cover and the two causes for the drought that has been identified. There is ample evidence that forest and cover of land by trees is a key temperature regulator. It is estimated 40% of forest cover has been lost over the past 200 years in Australia. While technological options are one side of the equation, systematic thinking and actions are the call of the day as reflected by many of the participants. A coordinated effort by all will be required if were to avert a climate crisis. The decision makers , policy writers, technical teams, technology providers, end users - all will be required to play a vital conscious role and collaborate. I for one believe the work by AWA in keeping the conversation and creating the opportunity for regional centres to host such events is most welcome. I spoke on the topic of "Building capability through workplace adult learning in the water sector". The need for taking your teams on the journey as we look to embrace AI and the multitude of disruptors is a key challenge for all utilities and teams. The mental wellbeing of your teams due to changes cannot be ignored. While some teams will thrive due to the good management and leadership insights, some others will have to deal with anxiety and stress caused by change. If you wish to discuss how to manage change and build capability - look me up. Full marks to the organising team, the sponsors and speakers. Thanks for the opportunity to share my views as a speaker. For those who have contacted me about my presentation, thank you. I am happy to share this with you if you have not got a copy.