By Faridat Salifu
The Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia, is making strides in sustainable agriculture by recycling treated wastewater for irrigation instead of discharging it into the nutrient-sensitive Caboolture River.
Previously, Class A treated effluent, while not safe for drinking, was discharged into the river, contributing to harmful algae blooms that deplete oxygen levels and threaten aquatic life, including fish, crustaceans, and frogs.
Now, this nutrient-rich wastewater will be repurposed to fertilize crops such as pineapples, avocados, strawberries, and raspberries.
A new 22-kilometer pipeline will transport the treated water from the South Caboolture sewage treatment plant to Moodlu Quarry, an old mining site being transformed into a reservoir.
With the region’s population projected to double by 2040, the existing wastewater treatment system faces increasing pressure from daily use.
This innovative approach, inspired by similar successful programs in Singapore, aims to alleviate irrigation challenges, particularly during dry spells.
“We’re currently in a wet period, but dry conditions will return, and water access is always a challenge,” said Gavin Scurr, general manager of Pinata Farms, in an interview with ABC News AU.
He noted that inconsistent water supply limits production capabilities and affects the ability to deliver quality fruit to consumers.
The new irrigation program promises multiple benefits for local farmers. By utilizing recycled water, natural creek systems can remain intact for longer periods, reducing conflicts between upstream and downstream farmers over water access.
These creeks contribute to local dam reservoirs, allowing overflow that enhances biodiversity in the surrounding ecosystems.
Initially, five farms will participate in the Wamuran Irrigation program, with the potential for expansion as infrastructure improves.
Experts predict that by 2059, Queensland will face increased vulnerability to drought, making such recycling initiatives not only advantageous but essential for the future of Australian agriculture.
This program exemplifies how innovative water management can support both environmental health and agricultural sustainability in the Sunshine Coast region.