Science, Technology and Engineering

School of Life Sciences

Department of Environmental Management & Ecology

Interest in waste water management rewarded

Media release August 2007

La Trobe University Bachelor of Science student Heidi Josipovic has been rewarded for her study excellence and keen interest in the field of waste water management.

The 20 year old, who is studying Environmental Management and Ecology at the Albury-Wodonga campus, has received the prestigious Environmental Group Limited (EGL) award in conjunction with the Water Industry Operators Association (WIOA).

As part of her award, Heidi is working with EGL at the Wodonga Treatment Plant where she is gaining hands-on experience in Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) technology and undertaking daily sampling and monitoring.
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She is also assisting EGL with a study to investigate new, beneficial ways of re-using sludge - the bi product of waste water treatment.

The study, with fellow third-year student Kathryn Mentha, involves testing the composition of the bio-solids, researching and identifying new applications for re-using the waste, as well as detailing costs involved in supplying and transporting the material for re-use. The waste has previously been used as top soil in the rehabilitation of land at a local tip site and the study may provide an opportunity to extend its re-use to benefit other industries.

Heidi said the work placement had fuelled her desire to pursue a career in the waste water field.

“The technology and innovative processes used in waste water management make this industry a fascinating one to get involved in. Every community relies on effective waste water management and there are good job opportunities in the field both in Australia and overseas “

EGL Manager Plant Operations, Peter Tolsher, said by offering a waste water management prize and opportunities for third year students to undertake industry placements, EGL hoped to nurture environmental managers for the future.

“It is a great way for local students to experience the industry first-hand and see local job opportunities. At the same time, EGL is able to draw on the skills of local students to conduct research and work on projects that staff may not otherwise have time to undertake. EGL has employed two La Trobe University graduates of the course who undertook placements with the organisation in previous years.”

Head of the Department of Environmental Management and Ecology at La Trobe University, Associate Professor Phil Suter, said the award was a great opportunity for Heidi to develop her practical skills and knowledge in the waste water management field.

“The award provides a ten-week work-placement with EGL, annual membership of the Water Industry Operators Association (WIOA) and an all expenses paid trip to attend the WIOA Annual Conference to be held in Bendigo from 4th to the 6th of September.

The EGL award is an example of the industry support for students studying environmental management and the broad career opportunities open to graduates to work in areas such as the management of water resources, waste management, environmental protection and pollution control, catchment management, education and research.”

For more information on the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management and Ecology at La Trobe University phone 02 6024 9885 or visit: www.latrobe.edu.au/deme/aw

Media inquiries:
Associate Professor Phil Suter 02 6024 9885
www.latrobe.edu.au/deme/aw

EGL Manager Plant Operations Peter Tolsher 02 6059 3726
www.egl.com.au

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