For their project From Sewers to Solutions: Unlocking Energy in Wasteland Networks.

This project aims to unlock thermal energy from Victoria’s sewer networks by creating a heat distribution map of the Geelong network.

By quantifying and prioritising opportunities for wastewater heat recovery, the project can turn wastewater networks into climate-positive energy assets.

For their project Slashing our methane emissions by 50% – Installing solar aerators on facultative wastewater lagoons.

This project involves the installation of solar-powered aerators on wastewater treatment lagoons to reduce methane and nitrous oxide emissions while also lowering energy use. While aerators themselves are not new, the innovation lies in the off-grid, non-network-connected solar infrastructure being trialled.

This approach will enable even the most remote sites to access effective aeration technology, cutting operational costs and emissions.

For their project 90% Less Water, 100% More Clean.

Cleaning and flushing of pipes in the water and wastewater network uses millions of litres of water per year. This project will trial new technology that uses short, controlled air–water pulses to dislodge biofilm and sediment, while using up to 90% less water than conventional flushing or air scouring.

For their project CSIRO Enhanced Constructed Wetlands.

This project will adopt CSIRO biotechnology to create the next generation of floating wetlands that remove persistent contaminants—including PFAS, microplastics and pesticides – whilst producing 90% less emissions. This low-energy, nature-based approach will test innovative protein adsorbents, biofilms and biochar to significantly enhance treatment performance of existing floating wetlands.

Photos from the 2025 WMCIC Award Ceremony

Come and check out the photos from the WMCIC Award Ceremony below and for even more photos please use the following link