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.

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."  

True Water Australia assessed every aspect of this property renovation with Todd Knaus.  From the property restrictions and the owners needs, to the best location for the home sewage treatment system. The Todd Knaus Constructions project was particularly challenging for a number of reasons. We were able to fulfil the requirements of the project due to our extensive experience in the waste water treatment industry, and the collective knowledge of our skilled staff. While completing the project our focus remained on maintaining the ambience and aesthetic of the property and completely concealing the wastewater system. This was all achieved within time and budget constraints. Liaising with the governing council, the architect, the foreman and the client,and coordinating with all other trades, our team worked alongside the existing construction to ensure a smooth project delivery.

Project Overview

The Charles property was undergoing a significant renovation. The core change would reduce the dwelling from seven to five bedrooms. Numerous infrastructure alterations were also required. True Water Australia were brought to the project to upgrade the existing septic and drainage system. This had to be achieved in alignment with added constraints of the build area of the site increasing and the already scheduled demands of the renovation.

Challenges with Todd Knaus Property Renovation 

The property covered 4,047m² with limited area available for the sewage treatment plant and the disposal of the treated waste water. As a five bedroom home generates a large wastewater load, a solution had to be designed that would be suitable for the property. Site constraints included heavy vegetation, steep slopes with numerous trees and limited access. The existing needs of the already established architectural construction team also had to be considered and most importantly the needs of the home owner after everything was complete. The work had to be undertaken within specific construction stages of the property. The design and construction of the home’s renovation were already well underway. True Water’s team needed to work within a very tight and established work site with limited access for machinery and without hindering other tradespeople or impacting completed works. This required ongoing negotiation with the foreman and architect to coordinate both the True Water Australia and architectural work teams. This resulted in the completion of the project within the client’s specific and challenging time frame and most importantly within the client's budget.

The True Water Solution

Utilising non-recreational areas of the property, a lightweight, compact treatment system was installed, prior to the commencement of external construction, allowing the architectural team to continue work without hindrance and without the need for a crane or large excavator. True Water Australia developed and designed the LAA specifically to align seamlessly with council constraints and requirements and deliver the very best aesthetic solution for the property. We used an advanced secondary treatment home sewage treatment plant to reduce total job costs. Beyond reducing the cost, the advanced treatment system provides other benefits beyond cost savings;

• It allowed reduction of the total size of the Land Application Area (the area used for the application of treated water to the property). Minimising the impact of the system.
• It is the safest option and reduces the chance of soil contamination, algae, slime and odour
• Advance water treatment protects people from disease and viruses and prevents possible infection or sickness.

The extensive experience of the True Water Australia team allowed us to view several options for the Land Application Area (LAA) requirements. Several disposal methods were considered, using detailed calculations and site investigation. The only method which delivered on safety, aesthetic, compliance and longevity was irrigation. Several calculation methods were used, including Byron Shire Council’s wastewater model. We concluded that other options would be large, expensive and reduce usable space on the property. Irrigation was installed along terraced areas saving space and money and maximising usable area. While True Water Australia supply and install many types of on-site wastewater treatment systems, our role is not finished there. Once the system is up and running, we coordinate all management & maintenance services to ensure the wastewater system performs to optimum levels over a long period of time.  

Conclusion

Despite the tricky location, numerous constraints of the project and the challenging council requirements, out team deisgned a solution that adds value to the property without compromise. A very high-quality result was achieved, with minimal site impact and high aesthetic value. True Water Australia installed an advanced treatment system that provided exceptional value and functionality. Importantly, it also maximised the useable outdoor area for the client.  All True Water systems are designed by our Domestic Consultancy team for longevity, to provide a solution that services the property for decades to come.  

Pleass Global in Fiji have installed a new sewage treatment system in conjunction with True Water. The Kubota sewage treatment plant was required to service a new water processing and bottling facility. Pleass Global Pty Ltd is Fiji’s leading bottled water supplier with brands including Aquasafe and VaiWai water. True Water was engaged to design and supply a wastewater management system for their new facility 30 minutes from Suva. In 2008, 420 acres of pristine lowland tropical rainforest was acquired by Pleass in Namosi, Viti Levu, Fiji. Pleass had, until then, been extracting it’s source water from this land under agreement with the land owner. That land, now known as Kila World, has a 300 acre residential subdivision called Kila Estates. The remaining 120 acres is the water catchment area and has the extraction wells for the company’s bottled waters. The company also has an organic farm and Kila Eco Adventure Park on the water source land. The project required the fast design and delivery of a 10kL Kubota HC-Z sewage treatment plant. The solution was required to suit the tropical climate and extreme environmental conditions. Coordination between multiple parties was required to make sure the international freight of all components was achieved without delay or disruption. True Water manufactured and delivered a complete plug and play wastewater management system well within the required timeline. Installation was coordinated to include the use of local labour and trades to ensure community benefits were maximised.

Designing a Sewage Treatment solution for Pleass

Pleass Global asked True Water to design and install a wastewater treatment plant for their new factory in Namosi, Fiji. The new facility was being built in the water catchment area that provides artesian water for Aquasafe and VaiWai. Clean and safe drinking water is an important consideration throughout all of Fiji. Therefore it was vital the wastewater treatment solution was of the highest quality available. Pleass Global Beverages Video Profiles  100% Natural Artesian Water from the pristine rainforest aquifer under Pleass Global's certified organic farm land in Namosi. A wastewater treatment plant was needed to manage wastewater generated from the new facility. The factory and associated offices employ full time staff on a 12 hour shift basis. The wastewater originating from toilets, showers, kitchen and washing facilities was estimated at 5,000 – 7,000 litres per day. Additionally, wastewater generated from the manufacturing and cleaning processes required treatment. The approximate volume to be managed is 10,000 litres per day. All wastewater would require treatment and disposal on site. A review of the cleaning agents being used took place. As a result, more environmentally sustainable products were recommended. The use of biodegradable and phosphate free cleaning products improves the treatment plant performance. As part of the consultation process, True Water proposed three different options for treating the wastewater generated on site. The client was able to choose the solution most suitable to their needs. Discussions were had on site regarding the ability to scale our solutions should the need arise. Additional packaged systems can be added in the future to increase capacity as it is needed.

The True Water Solution

Our Consultancy Team elected to place the wastewater treatment plant and disposal point to the East of the factory. This was due to the location of the water catchment within the property. The 3 phase power and a supply line from the factory was provided to the plant location by the client as part of the installation. True Water provided a complete plug and play wastewater management system that is suitable to the pristine rainforest location. The Kubota HC-Z advanced sewage treatment plant was assembled in our manufacturing facility in Australia. The packaged system and all relevant components were then freighted to the company for installation by local labour. This in turn maximised the community benefits and led to further education and training of staff on site. True Water's technicians provided onsite supervision as well as online and over the phone technical support throughout the installation phase. Once installation was complete, a True Water service technician completed commissioning and provided initial training. As part of an ongoing service agreement, our technicians regularly visit the Pleass factory in Fiji to inspect the sewage treatment system and undertake water quality testing.  

Pleass Global Ltd pursue Environmental Sustainability as a Company Standard

At Pleass Global Limited, they know all business activity has an impact on the environment and focus on reducing it. They consider the environment in all day-to-day activities for the simple fact that their core activity, offering bottled water, is 100% dependant on a clean environment.   In 2012, Pleass innovated within the Fijian business sector by hiring the first Corporate Sustainability Manager with a clear objective: To reduce the Pleass Global Limited ecological footprint. The company has developed a Sustainability Action Plan that combines both environmental and social principles. Pleass leads by example in the Fijian market to encourage other companies to engage on the path to sustainability. Pleass Beverages | Made in Fiji – Skyward Industries  

True Water and Pleass - protecting our future

Here at True Water, we are proud to be associated with a company that has so many similar ideals to us. When designing sewage treatment solutions for projects, we strive to deliver innovative solutions that meet the needs of the project, are sympathetic to the local environment, and achieve the highest level of treated water. Click here to learn more about True Water's involvement in the Pacific.

True Water were recently engaged to complete a full Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) replacement at Glencore's Rolleston Mine Accommodation Village. It is located in the southern part of Queensland's Bowen Basin, approximately 16 kilometres west of the Rolleston Township and 140 kilometres southeast of Emerald. More than 600 staff are currently employed at the mine which extracts coal for the domestic and export markets. The Accommodation Village provides housing and facilities for the mine staff.

The Project - Mine Sewage Treatment Plant Replacement

The Rolleston mine is located in a remote area far from municipal wastewater treatment infrastructure. An on-site, reliable and high-quality sewage treatment plant is required to keep the mine and its various facilities running smoothly. True Water Australia had previously designed, manufactured, installed and commissioned a Kubota HCZ-50 sewage treatment plant to meet the needs of the Administration Complex for the Mine Infrastructure Area (MIA). With remote monitoring, onsite training of personnel and a servicing plan, the wastewater treatment system has been performing at a high standard and meeting all QLD Environmental Authority requirements for the site. True Water were engaged to design, install and commission a replacement Sewage Treatment Plant at the Rolleston Accommodation Village when the existing containerised sewage treatment system failed. A swift replacement of the existing system was required as the failed Pureplus Treatment Plant was not operating to specified treatment levels, posing health and environmental risks. The system being replaced was less than two years old. Although it had failed, there were components that were still in operational condition. It was important to retain and utilise as many existing wastewater treatment assets as possible in order to minimise the costs involved in rectification works. An assessment of site infrastructure was undertaken to evaluate the suitability of existing components to integrate into True Water’s Kubota Treatment System.

Rolleston Rehabilitation Works

From development of the mine through to today's operations, Rolleston Open Cut has demonstrated their commitment to compliance with State and National environmental standards. This includes progressive rehabilitation of mined lands.   In July 2018, Glencore received an official certification from the Queensland Government after rehabilitating 220 hectares of mined land 140km southeast of Emerald, Queensland, an area around six-and-a-half times the size of Disneyland. Rehabilitation at Rolleston Open Cut

The Solution for Glencore

“We’ve recently contracted True Water Australia to design, construct (through Kubota), supply and oversee both the installation and commissioning of a new Sewage Treatment Plant at Rolleston Coal for our 700 unit accommodation village." "During the tender process we found TWA’s technical knowledge, proven working STP systems elsewhere and compliance to government regulations to be far superior to other tenderers. This was proven through consistency in results, testing and reporting data supplied.” James Bernstein – Project Manager, Glencore, Rolleston Mine, QLD Glencore were looking for a STP replacement solution that would achieve quality and budget requirements, while also minimising operational costs throughout the infrastructure life cycle. It was vital that this included operation, maintenance and monitoring. As part of their ongoing commitment to compliance with State and National environmental standards, it was important the solution True Water provided was of the highest quality and reliability. Glencore’s process included engagement of third party consultants and industry experts to inspect STP’s True Water have in operation in similar applications. This determined the suitability of the Kubota STP for the Glencore Rolleston site. The primary project scope was to replace a relatively new system, with guaranteed STP reliability and continuity of operation being key considerations. The Rolleston mine has also received government approval to extend its mine life beyond 2040. This would create an average of 84 full-time jobs over 10 years and once completed about 1200 full-time jobs. This could potentially double the requirements of the Accommodation Village, so the Sewage Treatment Plant needed to include the potential to scale up in size to accommodate higher influent flow volumes.

Project Details

True Water designed and constructed a 100m³ Kubota K-HC-T Sewage Treatment Plant with the potential to expand the capacity of the system in stages. The Kubota Treatment Plant provides biological treatment through a Moving Bed Bioreactor. This is contained within a single treatment Train which includes no moving parts or pumps. A future upgrade would see the same system installed alongside the first stage and utilising shared infrastructure throughout (Controllers, Buffer storage tanks and Treated water storage). “The Kubota STP commissioned for the Glencore Rolleston accommodation site greatly reduces the Principal’s operational costs and maintenance whilst reliably treating wastewater with proven technology from a world leading manufacturer.” Karl Hansen – Commercial Manager, True Water Australia A key advantage of using the internationally renowned Kubota technology is they are manufactured under ISO and Internationals Standards accreditation for the treatment of wastewater. This provides uniformity and surety. Because the Treatment Plants are premanufactured, True Water can deliver large scale Kubota plants in a short period of time and include a Performance Guarantee. This ensures each treatment plant meets the specific requirements of the site and application while providing security to our client. The design and manufacture of the Kubota treatment plants focus on ease of management with a reduction of servicing frequency and operational needs. Once design was finalised, Kubota undertook manufacture of the K-HC-T Treatment Plant. The Treatment Plant was delivered to site approximately 14 weeks from the acceptance of the True Water/Kubota STP and placement of the order. Once the STP arrived onsite it was a simple process to install the tanks, make final connections and backfill around the system. A process that took only six days, from delivery to operation. The existing failed sand/media filters were removed with a portion of the existing infrastructure retained and re-purposed. By repurposing this infrastructure, True Water were able to significantly reduce the rectification costs. The assets that were proposed to be kept were inspected on site for suitability and structural integrity before being integrated into the new Kubota system. The existing pump well, controller and power supply were able to be retained. Suitable existing concrete tanks were modified and pipes realigned to allow for their integration.

The True Water/Kubota STP Solution

True Water is highly experienced in providing replacement solutions for failed or undersized commercial wastewater treatment plants with specific environmental considerations. We recently completed two system replacements on World Heritage listed Fraser Island as part of our wastewater treatment plant contract with the Queensland Government National Parks. Eurong Rangers Station Sewage Treatment Replacement Dundubara STP Rectification Works True Water chose a Kubota system for the Glencore Rolleston Accommodation Village that would provide efficient and cost-effective sewage treatment. The STP produces a high quality of treated water and a high level of nutrient reduction, ensuring exceptional environmental outcomes. During the design and planning phases, all parties took part in a high level of communication to ensure that project timelines were met and continuity of service was guaranteed. The professionalism and organisation within the Glencore and True Water teams ensured the project was delivered on time and on budget.  “It was a pleasure working with Glencore and we look forward to working with them well into the future to deliver successful and trouble-free operation of their new STP.” Karl Hansen – Commercial Manager, True Water Australia  “Their team are experts in all aspects of wastewater from pricing and design through to delivery and contract management. TWA have been extremely professional resulting in smooth sailing with all milestones met and delivered without issue or incident.” James Bernstein – Project Manager, Glencore, Rolleston Mine, QLD

Even in the simplest of installations demand significant planning and thought for the most beneficial and professional of outcomes. The Klenk Property was one such project that, on the surface, appeared incredibly straightforward but, with True Water Australia’s consummate assessment and attention to detail, numerous elements needed to be added to the install. True Water Australia’s solution to the project had to include sufficient drainage and treatment for the existing structure while taking into account the ability to also service a proposed future residence. Cost-effectiveness and a range of location options also proved to require significant forward planning. Fortunately, through True Water Australia’s unfaltering expertise and experience, an excellent result was achieved for a very happy client. The level open property at first presented minimal limitations, the treatment system needing only to service a shed on the expansive site. The future addition of a dwelling, however, meant that a higher volume of treatment would eventually be required, and the location of the proposed property and its recreational areas would also need to be taken into account, all while maintaining the most cost-effective solution. Solution The installation of an advanced secondary treatment system reduced the overall size of the disposal zone, allowing for greater utilisation of recreational areas. Several options for the location of the unit initially presented themselves but, after assessment and consideration, the final location saved the client considerably in connection costs. As with every project, True Water Australia ensured that both the client and relevant tradespeople, in this case, an electrician, were consulted at every stage of the project. This is absolutely essential so as to ensure the most cost-effective, practical and legally viable solution. Conclusion Although the Klenk Project was essentially a very standard installation, it showcases the lengths to which True Water Australia analyse every parameter of a project prior to commencement. The Klenk Project proved to be a resounding success through True Water Australia’s attention to detail, high-class workmanship and continual communication and liaison between contractors and the client. Combined with the high-quality product, its efficiency and cost-effectiveness and the financial efficiency of True Water Australia’s planning, work and solution, these factors resulted in an exceptionally happy client and a first-class outcome.

Baillies Lodges aims to set new benchmarks for premium experiential travel in a unique Australian style. Their resort, on Lord Howe Island sits on the western side of the Island with uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean, reef and mountains. The resort that caters for luxury holiday makers recently received a much needed upgrade to their wastewater system. Lord Howe Island is located 580km from mainland Australia posing logistical challenges for commercial infrastructure. The island is World Heritage listed and has many untouched environmentally sensitive areas. Seasonal occupancy rates see varying wastewater flows throughout the year. The sewage treatment plant upgrade required a robust solution capable of consistent treatment performance and without impact to the environment. True Water undertook the installation that saw a Kubota HC-50 Sewage Treatment Plant transported to site via the Island Trader. Irrigation was installed in conjunction with the Kubota sewage treatment plant to provide the resort with the highest quality sewage treatment system available while ensuring no impact to the World Heritage site’s views and its pristine environment.