Cairns Regional Council (CRC) has embarked on a “twinning” program that encourages an exchange of professional experience and expertise on water services.
The Council has partnered with Vietnam’s Son La Water, which services about 1.15 million people.
Facilitated by the Australian Water Association in conjunction with the Vietnam Water Supply and Sewerage Association, the program involves delegations from each of participating cities to view water operations during the next 12 months.
CRC is one of just five Australian water providers invited to be part of the program, which aims to share and develop best practice methods in:
- water safety and security, including water quality treatment, implementation of water safety (quality) plans, and water security planning
- minimising water wastage and implementing effective demand management and
- asset management, including maintenance programs and strategic planning for infrastructure.
The program is fully funded through the Australian Water Partnership, a Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade initiative to support public and private sector expertise in the Indo-Pacific region.
“By participating in this program, Cairns is clearly placing itself as a leader in the water sector,” Mayor Bob Manning said.
“Benefits to our region will be not only through the opportunity to explore different techniques and perspectives on water management, but also through professional development of our very knowledgeable staff who will be involved in this project.”
