National Water Week Spotlight Series: Steven Bennett

Meet Steven Bennett, Project Manager on a trunk watermain in the Mooloolah Valley region in Brisbane. To celebrate National Water Week and BMD’s work within the sector, we took the time to get to know Steven and what he loves about working in the sector.

Q: What do you enjoy about working in the water sector and the role you have in being part of the solution?

A: We are really lucky in Australia to have access to a great existing water network, however I take pride in working on projects that improve and extend this network to benefit more regions and improve quality of life for all Australians.

Q: What do you enjoy most about working on your current project?

A: Currently we are working to deliver trunk watermain infrastructure for the Mooloolah Valley region. This network will duplicate an existing main that will improve water pressure and supply to the region. In addition to improving vital fire fighting capabilities in the region, this network upgrade will support additional housing and developments which are in demand across South East Queensland.

Q: What are the main challenges faced on the project?

A: The challenging components of this project involve working around a significant number of existing infrastructure and established vegetation that conflict with the design alignments. It has required extensive service location and 3D modelling to enable clash detection. Subsequently we have undertaken horizontal directional drilling design updates to ensure the main can be installed with sufficient clearances to services and vegetation.

Q: What advice would you give to aspiring civil construction engineers who are interested in specialising in water infrastructure projects?

A: Water security is one of the major hurdles that we will continue to face and hopefully overcome in our changing climate. By engaging with government, councils, asset providers and private developers, we as engineers are in a position to ensure our water future is secured.

Q: Water has a vital role in connecting us all. How can the community do their part to improve our water supply?

A: A focus on responsible usage at home is a great step in the right direction but primarily making sure all waste ends up in the appropriate bins to protect our sensitive water quality.