Upper Water Think Tank

What is the Upper Water Think Tank?

The Upper Water Think Tank (UWTT)  is a vibrant network of individuals from the Maribyrnong catchment dedicated to enhancing understanding and advocacy for sustainable water and waterway management. Founded in response to low levels of local water literacy the Think Tank equips members with the knowledge to contribute informed opinions during government consultations and advocate for long-term water health.

With a focus on the Maribyrnong River and its creeks, the Think Tank addresses critical issues such as stormwater, drinking water, wastewater, and groundwater management. Since its establishment in 2023, it has run over 15 sessions, and engaged diverse representation from Landcare and Friends groups, through educational sessions with water industry experts and local government representatives.

As the region faces increasing population pressures and declining rainfall, the Water Think Tank fosters water-literate communities, empowering locals to participate in meaningful dialogue and drive sustainable, community-supported decisions for the future of the Maribyrnong catchment.

Greater Western Water’s Role in Water Management

Greater Western Water plays a critical role in managing urban water supply and wastewater services across western Melbourne, including areas within the Maribyrnong catchment. Their responsibilities include ensuring sustainable water use, addressing water quality, and collaborating on initiatives that balance urban growth with the health of Victoria’s waterways. Their contributions are vital to the broader management of the state’s water resources, supporting both community needs and environmental priorities.

To view the PDF from the presentation, click the link below. 

Greater Western Water Operational Context

Recycled Water Plants in the Maribyrnong Catchment

Wastewater treatment ensures waste water from industry and our homes is safely processed, with treated water reused or released under strict standards. Growing populations and emerging contaminants will pressure plants to innovate and adapt. Sustainable solutions and community education will be key to protecting waterways and managing future challenges effectively.  

To view the PDF from the presentation, click the link below.

Recycled Water Plants

Waterwatch

Explore how Melbourne Water monitors waterway health and uses data from consultants, citizen scientists, and Waterwatchers. Learn about challenges in managing altered waterways, setting restoration goals, and engaging communities in data interpretation. Discover tools like the Waterwatch portal and Melbourne Water’s Water Measurement Information System.

To access the PDF from this presentation click the link below.

Waterwatch

Groundwater

Groundwater-dependent ecosystems (GDEs) rely on groundwater for some or all of their water needs. These include wetlands, springs, river baseflows, and terrestrial vegetation. In the Maribyrnong Catchment, these ecosystems are vital for supporting biodiversity and maintaining healthy waterways. In this session you’ll find out what Victoria’s agencies are doing to better understand and protect these systems.

To access the PDF from this presentation click the link below.

Groundwater

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