True Water Australia

True Water recently installed a septic tank and ETA bed system to service a new two bedroom granny flat for a plant nursery in Tintenbar, NSW.  The Little Gem Nursery needed to meet the council requirements for onsite sewage management as part of their introduction of new onsite accommodation. We were contacted by a regular client, East Coast Granny Flats. They were building the secondary dwelling, or granny flat, at the Little Gem  Nursery. With the nursery set in a rural location, there was no municipal sewerage connection. The existing sewage treatment system for the nursery was not able to cope with an additional wastewater load. Therefore, we needed to provide an onsite wastewater treatment system to service the new addition.

Assessing the Site Requirements

The first step was a site visit to assess the property and discuss options. This property had lots of space, good soils, and no nearby waterways. And with just a secondary dwelling, a simple septic tank system offered the best solution. Septic tank systems connect to ETA bed disposal areas and the open spaces between the nursery plants provided the perfect location for the Land Application Area. Council regulations and site constraints often restrict the use of septic tanks these days. A secondary, or aerated, treatment system is needed instead. But when the site is suitable, a septic tank system can still be a good solution.

Council Application

The next step was to produce the report for the development application. Whether it’s called an Effluent Management Report, a Wastewater Report, or an OSSM Report, they are the same thing. We have environmental scientists on staff and pride ourselves on our excellent reports. The report lists details of the development, the property, and environmental conditions. All of these things, along with council regulations, dictate the size and type of wastewater system needed. The council application went smoothly and quickly, and the project moved to the construction phase. We liaised with East Coast Granny Flats during construction to time the installation of the septic tank. It is often easiest for us to come in towards the end of the building process. This gives the builders space to move around without the tank in place.

Supply & Installation

We installed a 3,000 litre septic tank and 60m² of ETA beds. Septic tanks come in a few different sizes. The size chosen is based on the possible number of inhabitants of a property. As it was just a 2 bedroom house, a smaller tank was enough. In addition, the size of the ETA beds is based on the number of possible inhabitants. But it is not just the number of inhabitants that decides the size of the disposal area. The type of soils and general environmental conditions play a big part too.   ETA Beds can also be made to different shapes. The nursery had existing plants growing that they didn’t want to move. Our designer planned beds that fit in neatly with the rows of plants. Our installer then installed the beds carefully between the rows. The ETA beds soon disappeared back into the landscape. Septic tank installations are not as common as they used to be. But on large properties with simple environmental conditions, they can still be a good solution. They can offer a simple and passive long-term solution. The septic tank system was the best option for the nursery. We enjoy doing unusual jobs like the nursery. We have also forged a reputation in the industry for being able to complete any job. If a project is possible, we will find a great solution for it. Our experience and expertise allows us to find a great solution for any job. The nursery job went very well, and their plants will continue growing happily. Contact the team at True Water for a great solution for your own unique property.

True Water recently worked with Perkins builders to create a wastewater treatment system for the new BP Truck Stop located in Muchea, WA. The job needed a system to meet the particular needs of the project. Perkins Builders required a high-quality, durable wastewater system that requires minimal day to day maintenance. True Water designed, manufactured and installed a system specific to the project needs that blends seamlessly into the modern development. Muchea Service Station is currently the largest truck stop and fuel center in WA, servicing the new Northlink WA road. The multipurpose fuel site provides refueling for cars, commercial vehicles, 4wd’s, and long-haul trucks. With extensive onsite parking, dining options, a picnic area, and showers/laundry facilities, the site is a drawcard for passing travelers. The development has an indigenous artwork  that was a result of the development team wanting to acknowledges the past, present, and emerging traditional landowners and commemorate the cultural significance of the site. Perkins Builders engaged UDLA and community stakeholders to facilitate an Aboriginal led design process for an interpretive artwork reflecting the cultural significance of the Muchea area to Yuat Nyoongar people and all people of the Nyoongar nation.

Assessing the service station’s needs

Perkins Builders contracted True Water to create a sustainable wastewater system for the truck stop they were constructing in WA. The design and delivery needed to cater to the client needs, site constraints, construction timelines and requirements of the regulator. The development is expected to generate an average wastewater loading of 8000 – 11,000 liters per day. Understanding the predicted volume and quality of the wastewater flow is an important factor when delivering a new system. Service stations generate wastewater with a high sewage strength due to a greater ratio of toilets to sinks and showers. High levels of grease and oils  from food outlets, along the with the potential use of harsh chemicals are important things to keep in mind when designing a solution. This ensures the system will continue to treat the wastewater efficiently and with little need for intervention. Furthermore, another important consideration is how the system looks and whether it impacts the visitors to the site. Located close to the car park where people drive in, it was important the wastewater system was not noticeable. Their are two ways that the True Water system satisfies this requirement. Firstly, the Kubota treatment systems are completed self contained units that can be installed below ground. Once installed, only the gas tight lids used as access points for inspection and servicing are visible. Secondly, the effluent management area is designed to disperse water below ground under the cover of a turfed surface. This makes it disappear into the landscape and be virtually invisible to the public. Visitors to the service station would not even realise they are passing the onsite sewage treatment plant.

Introducing new wastewater treatment technology to WA

Social and environmental security is a high priority for the government regulators who monitor onsite wastewater treatment.  The BP Muchea Truck Stop is located in Western Australia.  A full assessment and sign-off from WA Health was needed. They are the standard regulator for this type of project in WA. Being a new development, True Water provided a document suite to receive approval for the installation of the wastewater system. Our consultancy team developed a Site and Soil Assessment, Effluent Management Report, and detailed Wastewater Treatment System design to support the application. As the regulator hadn't dealt with this system type before, in-depth information about the function and maintenance was required. Once these conditions were met, the regulator was happy to sign off on the project. Although True Water is based on the east coast, the modular Kubota treatment plants make delivery across Australia easy. Even to remote locations. In addition, much of the supporting infrastructure is premanufactured in our NSW workshop and delivered to sight ready to install. This means that installation of a new wastewater management system can be quick and precise, with little disruption to the builders schedule.

True Water provides a unique solution for the WA Truck Stop

For this project, True Water designed a system that utilises the advanced Kubota treatment technology to address the high strength influent and fluctuating hydraulic loads. The construction of an engineered effluent disposal system addressed the limited space available for the discharge area. True Water's team drew on years of experience dealing with sensitive environments and restricted sites to design the disposal system. Furthermore, this allows True Water to deliver fit for purpose design solutions to meet the needs of every client. True Water selected a 20kL Kubota Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) as the best system to provide tertiary treatment. Kubota systems are designed and manufactured in the highly competitive Japanese market. Due to the strict quality control and ongoing Research and Development, the Kubota systems offer industry leading technology. The compact and reliable system is the best solution for this project. It easily fulfills the aesthetic, environmental impact, treatment volume and quality needs of the client. True Water have delivered a total onsite wastewater treatment system with a footprint of less than 1000m. This accommodates both the Kubota treatment plant and the effluent dispersal area. Usually, the area required to treat wastewater generated by this site would be between five and ten thousand square metres. This significant reduction in area is a new concept for the regulator and had to be clearly explained and justified. Of course, the reduction in area required meant cost savings for the client, a significant decrease in installation time and a less obtrusive system.

Final update on the project

The wastewater management system for the largest truck stop in WA is operating smoothly and producing treated effluent to a higher quality than required by the WA Health approval. As part of a nationwide agreement with BP, True Water manages the onsite wastewater infrastructure through remote monitoring and scheduled quarterly servicing. The system is simple to manage for both staff on site and our technicians. This is due to the inclusion of the CONNECTmi pump controller and the TELEmi telemetry monitoring systems. These systems provide real time monitoring to ensure reactive maintenance is kept to a minimum. Contact True Water to discuss your asset management requirements.

True Water recently delivered a customised wastewater treatment system for the Rathgar Lodge aged care facility. Located in Ulmarra ,approximately 15kms north of Grafton in NSW, the lodge’s existing wastewater treatment system was assessed when plans to extend the property were proposed. True Water were engaged to supply a high-quality system to comply with the requirements of the development and deal with the various site constraints. Rathgar Lodge sits on 2.5 hectares of land beside the Clarence River. The lodge has approximately 60 residents and staff and various accommodation options. The river offers beautiful views and a pleasant environment for the lodge’s residents. The small town feel of Ulmarra and the riverside location make the lodge a popular place to live. Ulmarra, however, lacks a municipal sewerage connection and the river poses environmental restrictions.

Consultancy & Assessment

Engineering and planning consultants Ardill Payne & Partners engaged True Water on behalf of Rathgar Lodge. We began by inspecting the existing wastewater treatment system at the lodge. Although in generally fair condition, there were signs of overloading, ageing, and poor treatment quality. The disposal or land application area showed various signs of disrepair and damage. The expansion of the lodge was then postponed, however the need to remedy the treatment system issues had been identified. The next task was to assess the flow rates produced by the lodge each day. Correct flow rates are critical for correct system sizing. Once known, attention was placed on addressing all other important criteria. Important items to consider include:

• Space - limited for the disposal area of a larger system.
• Location - proximity to the river and in a flood zone.
• Residential – no noise or odour.
• Visual – aesthetically pleasing for the residents.
• Scalable – expansion still planned for the future.

A realistic and viable solution was found after consulting with Ardill Payne and Rathgar Lodge. The upgrade to the system and disposal area were to be staged. No interruption to the every day running of the lodge would be caused during construction. It also allowed for the gradual expansion of the system in line with the expansion of the lodge in general. Expansion could be timed to suit the needs of the lodge and to stage financial outlay.

New Wastewater Management System for the Aged Care Facility

A 10kL Kubota HC-Z sewage treatment plant was chosen as the best system for the first stage. The HC-Z is a compact system that treats to a high level. It sits below ground after installation, producing a very low visual impact. Because it is sealed, there is no noise or odour impact for the residents at all. The decision was made to decommission the old land application area. Poorly treated water, age and damage had deemed it unviable to resurrect. True Water designed the new disposal area to suit the site’s restrictions which include limited available area, proximity to the river and below flood levels. The solution is an engineered effluent disposal system that is situated in a grassed area beside the lodge. The specially designed disposal system solved various problems. The slightly raised area is engineered to allow all effluent dispersal to remain above water if the river ever flooded. This allows the lodge to continue to operate without a failing system. This solutions also occupies a much smaller footprint than other disposal methods. The limited space for disposal will now be sufficient, even with the future expansion plans. The design and construction are also very durable giving operational security long into the future. The engineered effluent disposal system is sized to take the additional load when the lodge is expanded in the future. The high treatment level of the Kubota system also gives the disposal system a much easier job than with poorly treated water. The area was turfed after installation for effectiveness and aesthetics, with the area now blending in gently within the landscaping.

State of the Art Wastewater Solutions for Current Regulations

The site specific requirements of providing sewage management for commercial properties that are not connected to municipal sewage infrastructure can sometimes be tricky. Importantly, Ardill Payne realised the challenge when they first assessed the site and called in True Water as specialists in the field. Although the existing system was undersized and in poor repair, any replacement had to meet current regulations. Many modern regulations stipulate much higher standards than the original system could ever achieve. Flood zones, soil types, space and treatment levels all added to the challenge at Rathgar Lodge. Modern problems can be solved with modern solutions. Kubota has spent many years refining and improving their systems. The result is a deceptively simple system created by intelligent design and engineering. It is a compact system with high treatment levels and excellent reliability and durability. A complete solution is achieved when the Kubota is part of correctly designed and installed infrastructure. In this instance, the engineered effluent disposal system was an integral part of the complete solution.

Planning for the Future - Staging the Infrastructure Delivery and Costs

Plans are now in place to install a second Kubota system at the lodge. It will be a 10kL HC-Z exactly the same as the first one. Connecting the systems is very simple and was already considered in the initial design. The last of the old system can be completely decommissioned after installation. This will remove any weak points and greatly reduce maintenance. The effluent disposal system is already sized for extra loading so the upgraded system will be complete. The expansion of the accommodation can then take place. True Water, Ardill Payne & Partners and Rathgar Lodge worked together to find a solution. Knowledge and expertise combined with the latest technology means that all criteria were successfully addressed. The lodge has an appropriately sized system with much lower operational and maintenance costs. Operational security has been vastly increased, and the concerns of the residents and the environment have been met.

The wastewater treatment system servicing the Eurong Beach amenities on Fraser Island needed upgrading. The Fraser Coast Council provides and maintains the infrastructure as a public resource.  With the existing system overloading and in a state of disrepair, the Council acted quickly to resolve the problem. The facilities produce high strength effluent, and the existing system did not have the capability to treat it properly. True Water replaced the failing system with a fit for purpose, state of the art solution. Fraser Island is a special place. This description from the UNESCO World Heritage List sums it up perfectly: “Fraser Island lies just off the east coast of Australia. At 122 km long, it is the largest sand island in the world. Majestic remnants of tall rainforest growing on sand and half the world’s perched freshwater dune lakes are found inland from the beach. The combination of shifting sand-dunes, tropical rainforests and lakes makes it an exceptional site." This exceptional and fragile location means that high standards and attention to detail are imperative. True Water is specialist wastewater company with experience in designing systems on Fraser Island. Our team installed sewage treatment systems here before, and we recently returned to install another one.

Engaging Wastewater Specialists to Meet the Challenges of the Site

Fraser Coast Council engaged True Water to assess the site and provide a solution. The natural conditions that make this site so special also provided some challenges to sustainable wastewater treatment. For instance, the sandy soil is highly permeable and has a high groundwater level.  The site includes sensitive vegetation and areas ecological significance which need protection. Moreover, the coastal environment can be harsh on any installed infrastructure. True Water worked within these constraints to provide a fit for purpose solution for the new wastewater system to service the amenities at Eurong. Through careful planning we were able to reuse some of the existing infrastructure. This reduced site disturbance and provided cost savings for the project. The design repurposed and used existing tanks as a pre-treatment tank. The pre-treatment tank feeds into a 10kL Kubota HC-Z 50 for the main treatment process. The HC-Z 50 uses a combination of anaerobic, aerobic, and high surface media to treat to a tertiary level. This configuration offered buffer storage for managing peak events along with consistent high-level treatment.

Cooperation and Cultural Awareness

Installing a system on Fraser Island presents some unique challenges. True Water worked closely with Fraser Coast Council and Rainbow Recovery for an efficient process. Communication with the council throughout the process smoothed the way. A quick and problem free installation was imperative to reduce interruption to the public. The lack of roads on the island presented another challenge. Working with Rainbow Recovery allowed us to benefit form their local transport expertise. In addition to the high environmental significance of Fraser Island, there is an important cultural significance. The Butchulla people are the indigenous people of Fraser Island. Unfortunately, a lot of their history and heritage has been lost or destroyed. The Butchulla people want their message – of care and respect for the land – to reach all visitors to the island. Our team carefully followed all cultural heritage duty of care guidelines throughout the project.

Importance of Correct Disposal

Installing the system is just part of the solution, all treated water needs to be disposed of. We chose 700m² of subsurface drip irrigation as the most practical and appropriate solution. Correct design and installation of the dispersal method is vitally important for wastewater treatment solutions. In fact a good disposal area offers many benefits to a project. The primary focus here was the minimisation of any environmental impact and efficient disposal. Smart design can go a long way to reducing pump run times and loading. This is very important in remote locations like Fraser Island. Along with high level treated water, a good design can hugely extend the life and reliability of a disposal area. The overall combination of the treatment system and disposal area combines for an excellent solution. It has a small footprint and very good aesthetics. The fragile environment will be protected and visitor facilities have been improved. The upgrade works for the wastewater system servicing the Eurong amenities on Fraser Island went very smoothly. The installation was quick with minimal public impact. Installing a system, however, is not the end of the story. Any system will require some maintenance to keep it running smoothly for years to come. The low maintenance requirements and high reliability of the Kubota system is another reason we were chosen to do this latest installation. Here at True Water, we take pride in finding great solutions for even the most challenging locations. As wastewater specialists with access to leading technology, we also provide well rounded and comprehensive solutions. For more information about a solution of your own, contact the team at True Water.

The Korora hills on the Coffs Coast offer stunning ocean views, however, the very steep terrain provides some unique challenges for onsite home sewage treatment. Hopwood Homes in Coffs Harbour contacted True Water to provide onsite sewage treatment for a new home in Korora. This home has stunning views, but is built on a logistically and environmentally demanding block.  In particular, the rocky slope, high rainfall, and restricted space on this site provide some unique challenges. True Water happily accepted the task. The wastewater industry is always changing. In the past, the specific site conditions or restraints were not always taken into account. And to be fair, not a lot was known about the technical and scientific approach to wastewater treatment. These days however, wastewater has become a specialised industry all of its own. The installation for this new home in Korora showcases the experience and knowledge needed to successfully design a home sewage treatment solution.

Designing a wastewater treatment solution for tricky terrain

This property has an intermittent watercourse on the site and one very close by. It also has two groundwater bores in close proximity. Protection of these water sources is important. In addition, the block has a very steep slope and the actual space available for the system is limited. One challenge was physically installing the system and disposal area on the site. The second was ensuring the correct design to dispose of the treated water efficiently and safely. Poorly treated wastewater is a factor in waterway and groundwater health. Pollution and contamination of waterways and water can lead to health risks and environmental degradation. Improving wastewater treatment is an important part of avoiding these problems. To avoid contaminating waterways, we chose a Fuji Clean CE1500EX as the treatment system. The Fuji Clean HSTP is a great system that treats to a secondary level and also includes nutrient reduction. The nutrient reduction is important for avoiding the eutrophication of waterways which can lead to algal blooms. Consistent and reliable treatment from the well-engineered system is also an important feature. The disposal area is restrictive and difficult to access. In order to provide a working solutions, these factors had to be carefully considered. This is where expertise and experience are critical. True Water designed a custom disposal area to fit the specific constraints of the property. The steep slope, contours, restricted space, soil type, and flow volumes were all considered.

Precision installation as part of the project with Hopwood Homes

Our experienced  team completed the precision installation on the contoured terraces.  With the house already built and the HSTP located right next to it, it was important to adhere closely to the plan. The chosen treatment system is a light and compact unit making installation much simpler and cheaper on the confined block. Using the correct equipment with skill is also critical when installing irrigation in such a tight location. Now that it is installed, the home sewage treatment plant and dispersal area are working perfectly. The home's wastewater is treated to a high and reliable level. As a result, the waterways and water bores remain nice and clean. The disposal area disperses the treated water evenly and efficiently. This area is compact and fits in with the environment, but also ensures there is no waterlogging or erosion.

Home sewage treatment built to last

There is another important thing to remember with this system. It's designed to last. We often see poorly designed or installed systems failing. This can be a costly and frustrating experience for any homeowner. In this instance, however, it could cause serious problems. Contaminated water bores or collapsing and eroding disposal areas take time to rectify. This quality system provides peace of mind to the homeowner. Above all, the True Water designed system will provide years of trouble-free operation. The owners know their wastewater is being dealt with effectively and to a consistently high level because they chose an industry leading product. Not only is it important for the environment, it also helps extend the life of the disposal area. The well engineered and designed disposal area will continue to work efficiently for many years to come. At True Water we take pride in finding great solutions to even the most challenging of sites. With careful planning, we make light work of even the most restrictive sites. But, we also ensure that even the simplest job is done well and designed to last. As wastewater specialists, we can guarantee we will provide an excellent solution for any home. Contact our team to talk about your home sewage treatment needs.

The Coolac Service Station is a new development on the Hume Highway that needed a wastewater treatment solution. True Water was engaged to assess the project requirements, site restrictions and government regulations to help find a solution. As the development is in a remote area and not serviced by municipal infrastructure, an onsite sewage treatment system was required. True Water designed, manufactured, installed and commissioned a site specific sewage treatment system for the service station that will manage the wastewater generated by every aspect of the development.

Working Together & Cooperation

Time is money, and the sooner this project was up and running, the better. There are many stages to a development and each one needs to run smoothly. This project was also not a small one. Along with the Mobil service station, there are several fast-food outlets, amenities including laundry and even a dog park. Modern environmental standards and good old fashioned aesthetics also needed consideration. We worked closely with project engineers Allspec & Partners on this service station. Our initial brief was the design and documentation of the system for the council application. Many projects require slight changes as they progress and this one was no different. We completed four different irrigation or disposal area designs to fit in with the project’s progression and constraints. Council approval went smoothly with the in-depth information provided. True Water’s extensive history with service station wastewater systems really helped with this project. Service stations have high effluent strengths and variable loading rates. This project was no different and had restricted space available.  The need to install the system close to the service station entrance meant any solution had to be odour free, safe for the general public and have minimal visual impact.

Specific Challenges for Service Stations

Wastewater treatment plants at highway service stations are commonly undersized or overloaded. Increasing traffic, greater numbers of visitors, or expansion of the facilities can all add to this. Additionally, stricter regulations on discharge licensing by the Environmental Authority may warrant an upgrade to an existing system to meet new standards. Specifically, the difficulty in complying with ammonia and BOD limits.  Service stations generate highly concentrated wastewater due to the provision of fast food outlets, trucks stops, laundry facilities and amenities. The wastewater is characterized by highly variable flows, high ammonia content and high FOG (fat, oil & grease) content due to catering and food preparation. There are various tried and tested methods for treating service station wastewater. The most suitable method will depend on the unique requirements of the project itself. Grease management and the removal of emulsified oils must be considered before any biological treatment step. In addition to consent standards, site requirements and limitations must be taken into consideration. As a result, many systems that currently treat service centre wastewater are not adequate for the job. Flow rates and effluent strengths are too extreme for domestic type systems which leads to shorter working life. Packaged plants are normally bulky and unsightly with high maintenance costs. Reliability is always a concern with packaged systems as well.

Project Specific Features

True Water chose a 40 kilolitre Kubota K-HC-T as the best wastewater treatment solution for the Hume Highway project. Years of Research & Development by Kubota has produced a very well designed and engineered system.  This system offers the excellent quality and reliability needed for a modern service station. Importantly, the modular system becomes almost invisible when installed below ground and is not accessible to the general public. The treatment system and supporting components are manufactured off site and then transported to site for installation. As a result, the time required on site for installation is reduced allowing for a speedy project delivery. True Water completed the installation in two stages to allow for additional flexibility in coordinating with the builder. We completed the two separate irrigation and disposal areas first. Then, we installed the treatment plant and control systems once the builder was ready to connect to the infrastructure and make the system operational. The subsurface irrigation for the grassed front verge area will keep it looking lush and green all year round. The treated water from the Kubota system is so clean that it is perfect for maintaining lawns and saving water. In addition, the visual footprint of the system is kept to a minimum.

Delivering Wastewater Treatment Solutions for Service Stations

True Water are installing more systems for service stations than ever.  Our compact, modular, state of the art systems combine simple process with high quality treatment. Importantly, this provides the perfect treatment solution for the unique requirements of a roadside petrol station. Contact True Water for all of your design & consultancy and supply & installation needs.

Sandon River village is a unique location with challenges for delivering services, which is why custom home sewage solutions are required. When the owners of a house in Sandon village had their old sewage system inspected, the news was not good. Your local council will often check onsite wastewater systems to make sure they are suitable and still performing correctly. The owners of the house in Sandon village contacted True Water for advice. The council had informed the owners that the trenches of their disposal system had failed. The owners had also been informed that their old septic tank was no longer sufficient.  They needed to replace their disposal area and upgrade to secondary treatment. A full system replacement is something we do quite often. In many cases, the replacement is easy and straight forward. This property by the Sandon River however, posed a few challenges. Sandon village is located beside the Sandon River and is in the middle of the Yuraygir National Park. Reaching the village is a challenge because it is also beside the ocean. Access to municipal facilities like water, power and sewer services is very limited. The land has a high water table with most houses in the village built on sand. And as a final challenge, the majority of the house blocks are small with little free space.

Finding a solution for home sewage treatment

A site visit by one of our experienced consultants was the first step. Our consultant assesses the site and the old system and looks at possible solutions. The next step was to safely decommission the old system before the new system could be installed. Bringing in the new system would be a challenge as access to the site was very restricted. The only available space for a new disposal area was a small courtyard area between buildings. Together we came up with a plan and submitted an application to the local council. As with any system replacement, the council needs to ensure that the new system will do the job. The current regulations for onsite sewage treatment are much tougher than when the original septic system was installed. With higher regulations and a restricted site, we needed to make sure we had the best system possible. True Water chose the Fuji Clean CE1500EX as the replacement home sewage treatment system. The Fuji Clean is a compact and light system that treats to a very high level. Years of research and development have produced a deceptively good system. True Water has tried many systems over the years for home sewage treatment and the Fuji Clean remains a firm favourite. Arch trenches were chosen as the best option for the disposal area. They work well in sandy soils and are ideal for compact disposal areas. When partnered with the Fuji Clean and a good overall design, the council was happy to approve the replacement. Local knowledge combined with years of experience can be invaluable with challenging projects like this.

Delivering the best possible outcome for the project

But this was just the beginning. We had the system, the design, and the approval, we now needed to do the installation. Installing a system in Sandon Village can be a challenging task. Luckily, we had installed other systems there and knew a few tricks. We had to access the village by driving along the beach at low tide. Once in Sandon, our team carefully decommissioned the old system. True Water technicians maneuvered the new system into place around and over several obstacles. In confined spaces with sandy soil, an experienced installer is vitally important. Correct installation is crucial for the whole system to work correctly. It is also important to make sure no damage is caused and that the finished job looks just right. The completed custom home sewage solution is quiet, odour free and out of sight. Our client is very happy with the finished product and the site after the install. After all, it is their home and making sure the backyard is functional and beautiful is an important detail. Careful planning and our experienced team made it all come together. Sandon Village is located in a pristine and fragile natural environment. Upgrades like this one help to preserve that special place. The owners have improved the liveability of their home greatly and added value to their property. The homeowners have the security of a trouble free system for many years to come.

True Water were selected by Auberge Resorts to provide sewage treatment infrastructure for their Nanuku Beachfront Villas development in Fiji. Auberge Resorts Collection have hotels, resorts and restaurants located in some of the most beautiful parts of the world. Adding to their luxurious escapes in Greece, Mexico, Hawaii and Anguilla, is the Nanuku Resort in Fiji. As Auberge say themselves; "Auberge has built its reputation on creating one-of-a-kind properties and experiences that capture the soul of each destination".   At Nanuku they have highlighted the stunning, unique location with luxurious, architect designed accommodation. The development is located on the main Fijian island of Viti Levu. The private villas feature tropical gardens and a beach front setting on the island’s southern coast. Coral reefs lie in the waters just offshore. The Nanuku Beachfront Villas needed a wastewater treatment solution of high quality to match their exceptional standards. Auberge Resorts put the project out to tender to find the highest quality systems. After careful deliberation, the project tender was awarded to True Water.  This stunning location is wonderful to visit, but presents some challenges when installing a commercial wastewater system. True Water brought their expertise and state of the art sewage treatment technologies to this unique project.  

Wastewater Treatment in Fiji

The way we deal with wastewater is changing. The growth of communities and the development of tourism in remote locations is driving this change. It highlights the need for more environmental awareness and better use and reuse of society’s resources.  Fiji’s coastal and marine environments are of high economic and social importance. They are key to tourism and hold significant cultural values. Pollution of these environments is a threat to the natural ecosystem. Climate change and over fishing are the more familiar hazards. However, pollution from untreated sewage is also a serious threat to reefs and the services they provide for marine life and people. This pristine environment and important economic resource needs to be protected. All wastewater treatment solutions must consistently produce safe, treated water. Fiji has traditionally managed their sewage with basic wastewater treatment. This is due in part to plenty of space for its low population. This also means that that local expertise and state of the art treatment options are not available. Importing technology and expertise are often the only way to achieve the desired result. True Water is experienced in delivering sound wastewater management solutions well suited to the Pacific. We specialise in designing solutions and providing products that deliver on key project and environmental requirements.  

Project Specific Challenges

Every site is different and it is critical to identify any project specific challenges before developing a design. One of the key concerns in any tourism or residential complex is the aesthetics. The sewage treatment design for Nanuku was required to blend seamlessly into the environment. Being visually unobtrusive was not enough. Environmental concerns included protecting the surrounding nature and pristine private reef. The development in nestled beside the ocean and relies heavily on its naturally beautiful location. Coral reef systems require clear nutrient-free water to thrive and remain pristine. The reef is of high cultural and economic importance to Nanuku and the surrounding community. Elements of the tropical environment also presented challenges. The high rainfall of the tropics is an important factor to consider. This, combined with a high water table, could affect the disposal area and system placement. Salt from the ocean can also be very corrosive to infrastructure. The chosen solution for this unique location also had to be practical to install. All items were shipped to Fiji as no technology of the same standard is available in country. Installation on-site needed to be simple, straightforward and require no specialist equipment. This would allow the use of local trades and services.  Reliability and simplicity are also important for ongoing maintenance by staff on-site.  

Designing a Solution

The solution to the unique requirements for Nanuku Auberge Beachfront Villas was 11 individual systems. After consultation with the client, True Water opted to install 11 Kubota KZ7 sewage treatment systems. One system services each of the luxury villas. This would allow the maximum use of prime beachfront land for the development and ensure ongoing compliance during peak seasons. The Kubota KZ7 is a small and compact unit. They are placed discretely within landscaped gardens, out-of-sight and out-of-mind. The systems are sealed keeping them silent and completely odour free. The KZ7 treats wastewater to a very high level.  Individual units are placed in the landscaping of each luxury villa and treated water is reused to irrigate the gardens. The clean, highly treated water has no negative impact on the lush gardens and the nearby coral reef. The Kubota KZ7 utilises Japanese Johkasou technology. It uses aerobic and anaerobic biological treatment processes through separate stages. This is in combination with high surface area static and moving media.  The KZ7 is a highly designed and engineered system that operates using a straightforward and reliable process. Its fibre reinforced plastic construction provides a compact, light and durable unit. The system is is also very suitable for the pacific climatic environment. The prefabrication of the units allows for a high level of quality control and a quicker and simpler installation. The system design means they flow under gravity. Gravity delivers the wastewater going in and the treated water going out. The result is simplicity and very low power bills, and continued operation during power cuts. A single blower is enough for the aeration treatment.  

Working together to deliver the best quality solution

A True Water technician worked with resort staff and local trades for the installation, only needing to provide supervision. Working with local tradesmen also provided economical benefits to the local community. The compact systems were easy to transport to site. The small, lightweight Kubota units didn't need deep excavation which made access easier where heavy machinery could not easily reach. The installation of the treatment systems was completed in line with the schedule of the client's builder. Local technicians are receiving ongoing training in simple system maintenance. This is possible due to the intelligent engineering of the treatment plants. True Water will continue to oversee the systems during their regular visits to Fiji and provide ongoing training and support. This investment into the local community builds strong economic stability through skill acquisition.  

Excellence in every area for Nanuku Auberge

Auberge Resorts continue their high standards with the Nanuku Beachfront Villas. True Water delivered sewage treatment systems that are the high-quality solution that Nanuku Auberge need. The systems servicing the villas have disappeared into the background and work away quietly and seamlessly. Auberge Resorts have kept their commitment to preserve and protect the fragile environment and the local community surrounding them. The pristine reefs will continue to flourish.    

True Water recently completed the replacement of a reed bed sewage treatment system that was failing and causing distress for the homeowners. The home sits on ¾ of a hectare (1.7 acres) of flat, clear land. The reed bed was installed only 10m away from the front veranda of the house. The reed bed system in front of this home had been in operation for five years and had failed. It was blocked by weeds, overgrown reeds and was full of partially treated wastewater. The reed bed was smelly and provided a moist and protected breeding ground for mosquitoes and insects. Mosquito born viruses such as Ross River Fever and Barmah Forest virus are common in Northern NSW. Most people are particularly concerned about keeping their properties insect and mosquito free. Home sewage treatment systems should not be something you have to deal with or think about. They should just be hidden in the garden, quietly treating your wastewater. It can be tricky to understand the options available, and to ensure you get the right system. People want to have a treatment system that they don’t have to think about; it just works. Rather than replacing the secondary treatment area with another reed bed, the owners decided to look for another option and called True Water. They wanted a “set and forget” system that would deliver a high level of treatment and get rid of the odour and insects, without the need for them to get their hands dirty.

Challenges with Reed Bed treatment systems

The theory of reed bed sewage treatment is simple, though in practice the treatment is often far from satisfactory. This is usually due to incorrect construction, inadequate sizing, regular flooding from blockages, and infrequent maintenance of the system.  However all reed beds will clog up and fail in time. A reed bed is a manufactured wetland that provides some secondary treatment of sewage water. Before it can enter the reed bed, household wastewater is first collected in a primary treatment tank or septic tank. This is where some solids separate out of the the sewage. The waste stream then passes through an effluent filter to remove coarse solids. This step is important as reed beds can only treat liquid waste. Getting the exact conditions for a reed bed sewage treatment system to work successfully is difficult. Reed bed systems are not low maintenance and you need a regular maintenance program to keep them working properly. Weeds grow in among the reeds, reducing efficiency and requiring removal on a regular basis. The reeds also need regular pruning, uprooting and thinning out. This is important to allow for sufficient plant growth and cleaning of the wastewater. Reed beds are not a long term solution. Even if designed, installed and maintained properly, they are only viable for a maximum of 7 to 10 years. Solids, oils, grease, and soaps that make it through the septic tank get caught in the gravel of the reed bed, blocking up the system. It's just a matter of time before a reed bed needs refurbishment. Refurbishing or cleaning a reed bed includes the removal and replacement of not only the reeds, but the entire gravel bed and pipe work.

The project: Replacing a failing reed bed and septic tank with a single, secondary treatment system

This reed bed was installed as part of the home's treatment system, along with a septic tank and land application area. The septic tank was located at the rear of the house and collected the home's wastewater. The sewage from the septic tank then flowed to the reed bed system at the front of the house for treatment. The treated water was then captured in a pump well and pumped back to the other side of the house to be dispersed via sub surface drip irrigation. The reed bed was 5 metres by 4 metres.  With the septic tank and pump well included, the total area of the reed bed was 25 square metres. Although it was huge, the water quality from the reed bed was very poor. After the initial assessment and consultation with True Water, the client decided to remove the reed bed and septic tank. The sub-surface irrigation area was in good condition, but would need flushing out. This process removes contaminants and bio-film build up.   A new Fuji Clean CE1500EX aerated wastewater treatment plant would service the needs of the home. We worked with the client to choose the best location for the new tank. They wanted the system to be as unobtrusive as possible. The design would place the fiberglass module below ground within the existing gardens. True Water's consultancy team prepared a wastewater application for approval by Council. Works began straight away after the owners received approval from the council.

The works: Making the most of a wastewater treatment upgrade

The replacement of the failing reed bed system took just a single day. Our team carefully excavated a hole for the new system within an existing garden bed at the rear of the house. It was placed close to the old septic to minimise the cost of connecting it to the existing drainage network. The old septic tank was pumped out and disconnected from the home's wastewater supply. It was decommissioned and collapsed and filled in with left over soil from the new system excavation. A single, compact Fuji Clean system replaced the 25 square metre reed bed. Because the Fuji Clean has a total surface area of only 2 square metres, we completely concealed the tank within the garden. Although less than a tenth of the size, the new system has much better water quality and no odour. The components of the reed bed required removing in layers to aid in correct disposal. The contaminated materials were all removed from the site. Imported soil levelled off the reed bed area for a nice finish. This allowed the owners to reclaim the space in front of their home and return it back to lawn area. The original below ground disposal area for the treated water could be retained as it was only ten years old. The irrigation area needed flushing and cleaning because the reed beds hadn’t been providing effective treatment for a long time. Flushing removed the build-up within the irrigation pipes and removed blockages. Due to the high level of treatment from the Fuji Clean, the existing disposal area will operate well for years to come.

The solution: A compact, 'no fuss', modular secondary treatment system from Fuji Clean

The Fuji Clean replacement system is completely different to the septic tank and reed bed combination. The first stage of the process in the Fuji Clean begins with an anaerobic digestion in the first chamber, the same as a septic tank. From there, the more technical aspects of the Fuji Clean system come into play. The wastewater passes through filtration media in the second chamber, a simple but highly refined process. The filtration media provide the ideal environment for microbial breakdown of the wastewater and is the result of years of research and development. The wastewater then goes through an aerobic digestion process followed by a clarification process and disinfection in the final chamber. At this stage the wastewater has been treated to a Tertiary Treatment level and is ready for dispersal. The controlled environment within the module provides a continuous and consistent level of treatment. The Fuji Clean is a sealed system providing no chance for mosquitoes to thrive or for the escape of odours. The tried and tested treatment process delivers reliable treatment with a strong manufacturer’s warranty. The modular tanks house all components and require no intervention from the homeowner to keep them running.

The True Water Solution

These homeowners achieved their goal. They eliminated the mosquito and smell problems and got a piece of their garden back. Sitting out on their front veranda has become an enjoyable experience.  By investing in the upgrade of their sewage treatment with True Water, these owners have increased the value of their home and improved its livability. The Fuji Clean tank remains hidden below ground behind the house, out of sight and out of mind. The new system gets a simple quarterly service by a qualified technician in accordance with council regulations, the same as any secondary treatment system. However, the owners no longer need to don their gum boots and gloves and get amongst the treatment process. Our team of home sewage treatment specialists delivered a reliable, cost effective and aesthetically pleasing solution for the home owners' needs.  

The Gladstone Area Water Board (GAWB) own and operate the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at Lake Awoonga. When the existing system started to fail after 35 years of operation, GAWB undertook an extensive tender and assessment process. They investigated many different treatment solutions to find the best outcome for the project. Performance history, company background and operational practices were all taken into account. GAWB chose True Water Australia to design, manufacture and install the new treatment system. Ongoing operational management will also be provided by True Water.

The Client - Gladstone Area Water Board (GAWB)

Established in 1973, the Gladstone Area Water Board ensures the short and long term water needs of current and future customers are met in ways that are environmentally, socially and commercially sustainable. GAWB achieves this through thoughtful forward planning for the region’s needs. Their team develops, operates and maintains the infrastructure required in a sustainable manner.  All while minimising the impact its operations have on the environment. GAWB owns and operates Awoonga Dam on the Boyne River. Their network of delivery pipelines, water treatment plants and other bulk water distribution infrastructure, supplies up to 78,000 Megalitres of potable water to the Gladstone region each year. Gladstone Area Water Boards delivery infrastructure

Replacement of existing Sewage Treatment Plant for Water Utility

Lake Awoonga is located approximately 30 km south of Gladstone, Central Queensland. The STP currently services the Lake Awoonga Caravan Park, a workshop, 5 residential houses, a kiosk, and a toilet block at the picnic area located at the boat ramp. The land set aside for sewage treatment infrastructure is north-west of the caravan park in a restricted access area. Two designated land application areas are to the south of the treatment plant. Also included in the treatment cycle is a wet weather storage dam. The existing STP servicing the needs of the Lake Awoonga area had reached the end of its operational life. The system required significant attention and management to maintain treatment processes and had ongoing difficulty achieving compliant performance. Due to the increasing operational burden and the decline in compliant performance, GAWB required a replacement treatment system. The True Water Design & Consultancy team proposed a complete wastewater treatment solution. This involved installation of a new Kubota STP and reuse of the treated water via alternating irrigation to land application areas. Upgrading the existing wet weather storage was also included. GAWB selected True Water to provide the new infrastructure as they proposed the only solution that met all of the project conditions. In particular the site constraints, longevity, life cycle management and the potential future increase in demand requirements were all met.

Key Project Considerations for Lake Awoonga Sewage Treatment

The GAWB process involved the assessment of key elements of consultancy and regulatory approval by GHD Engineering Consultants. The system is required to manage daily maximum flows of 40kL. Hydraulic flows can vary significantly with seasonal influxes of visitors. Therefore, the STP must be capable of reliably managing and treating fluctuating flow volumes and varying quality. The tender design indicated an above ground containerised or similar rotating biological contactor packaged plant. True Water identified the Kubota treatment system would be capable of providing improved project outcomes. Operational security is vital for this project with the STP located near the main potable water source for the Gladstone Region. A 40kL Kubota sewage treatment plant provided the highest level of reliability and operational security, with minimal operational cost burden. The design also allows for future expansion of the treatment capacity with the ability to add additional modular units. The Lake Awoonga STP must conform to the GAWB and the Qld Department of Environment and Science operational expectations. It needs to be highly reliable, including contingency and safeguards to ensure continuity of service at all times. Particularly during peak usage and power outages. In accordance with the GAWB’s operational mandate, the infrastructure must not negatively impact the environment. This aligned well with True Water’s vision for all STP’s to provide a neutral or beneficial impact to the environment.

World leading technology provides the simplest solution

Kubota Corporation mass produce three series of onsite STP’s under ISO:14001 & ISO:9001 certification. The systems can be applied to various applications to provide certainty through proven operation and surety of manufacture. True Water's consultants consider the scale of the project, the strength of influent and the quality of treated water. The most suitable STP is selected and the size and scale of the plant is confirmed. A Moving Bed Biological Reactor (MBBR) type treatment plant was chosen as the best fit for the Awoonga Dam specification. The final design demonstrates a best practice outcome for a commercial sewage treatment plant. This means the system balances technical specification, operational performance and technology complexity to achieve compliance treatment performance. All while providing a long term, financially sustainable solution.

Both Gladstone Area Water Board and True Water have a keen eye for detail and we shared many core values with a focus on quality, performance and value for money. Looking back the design phase was a highlight, working with Gladstone Area Water Board we were able to identify major design challenges. We had long discussions  about the challenges relative to the site and within the concept design and spoke in detail about the best outcome. We then we focused on designing true benefits into the system. This happened in each part of the infrastructure, the pipelines, the pumpwells, the Sewage Treatment Plant, control system and irrigation system. In each part of the project we were able to maximise efficiency and limit management requirements. We also saved some serious money along the way which I know Gladstone Area Water Board was very happy about. James Mahoney, True Water Australia, Managing Director

Delivering a sewage treatment solution for Lake Awoonga

Kubota Corporation manufactured the MBBR STP in Japan. Global manufacturers produced all components (including controller, pumps and blowers) to Kubota Corporation's design specifications. Mass production, standardisation, and uniformity provide security of operation. This allows Kubota to provide a strong warranty covering the entirety of the STP. They also offer a Performance Guarantee covering operation and performance. True Water fabricate and assemble all additional components including STP controller, telemetry, airlines, transfer piping and pump sets. Completing these tasks in our workshop prior to dispatch to site minimises risks associated with onsite fabrication. Installing the STP below ground eliminates visual and odour impacts. This also minimises temperature fluctuations and reduces deterioration caused by exposure to weather. The Lake Awoonga STP project included multiple life cycle stages; infrastructure design, project delivery and infrastructure management. GAWB and True Water held weekly meetings to ensure the project remained on track with the project objectives satisfied during each stage of the process. A key challenge of an infrastructure project is the coordination of multiple disciplines, for a sewage infrastructure project that’s especially true. For instance, throughout the design and delivery stages, many specialties needed to be coordinated: mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, telecommunications, plumbing, specialist irrigation design, civil works and of course wastewater engineering expertise.

New treatment system operational at Lake Awoonga

The new sewage treatment plant at Lake Awoonga is now operational and producing excellent water quality results. As part of True Water's ongoing commitment to the project, the Works & Services group is conducting ongoing training on site in the maintenance and operation of the plant. An official opening held with industry and government representatives highlighted the quality of the project. This included guided tours of the main treatment compound and all of the supporting infrastructure.

"We have a responsibility to deliver high quality infrastructure to the people of Gladstone, and we have achieved that. With due diligence and after a careful selection process, we appointed the project to True Water Australia. Their partnership as the Australian distributor for Kubota products, combined with their team’s knowledge and expertise in delivering sustainable and effective installations meant they were the right fit for our project." Darren Barlow, Gladstone Area Water Board, CEO  

True Water launches new Kubota sewage treatment system at Lake Awoonga Utility Magazine -5th Feb 2020: "The successful collaboration between True Water Australia, Kubota Corporation and the Gladstone Area Water Board (GAWB) has culminated in the installation of the latest world leading infrastructure to service the needs of the area."