Project and Engagement Planning
June 2020
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Biosolids Strategy
Project Overview
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Biosolids Strategy – Stage 2
Fraser Coast Regional Council (Council) is currently reviewing its Biosolids Strategy to identify potential alternative reuse options and take into account emerging trends, recent changes to legislation and the work being done at treatment plants. The strategy will guide future biosolids management and infrastructure investment in the region.
Council and WBW, operate four major sewage treatment plants. These are located at Eli Creek, Pulgul, Nikenbah and Aubinville. There are four minor treatment plants located at Toogoom, Burrum Heads, Torbanlea and Howard, with their biosolids directed to one of the major treatment plants for further processing/transport.
Download the Stage 2 Factsheet here.
How can I be involved?
Council committed to listening to the community in developing the strategy. The online survey has recently closed (20 Nov 2020) - this survey was to capture the communities feedback about the project and potential reuse options. Council and the consultants are now reviewing this information in preparation for developing the strategy. Please see the Have Your Say section if you would like to contact us about this project.
Timeline
Next Steps
Feedback from the community will be assessed and considered to inform the development of the Biosolids Strategy. Council will continue to keep the community informed of the outcome of the project.
Options
How are we managing odour?
Odour is a significant issue when producing and managing biosolids. As part of the strategy WBW are reviewing the management of their biosolids with a view to reducing odour issues. We are doing this by:
- Assessing our Plant capacities to ensure biosolids are treated for as long as possible
- Optimizing Plant processes to best manage the biosolids
- Investigating additional treatment processes for biosolids
Council is working hard to minimise potential odour concerns for each option.
No Survey Found.
What are biosolids?
Biosolids are treated sewrage sludge that consist of mainly water and organic compounds. They are an unavoidable by-product in the wastewater treatment process.
Biosolids are collected from the wastewater treatment process and undergo further treatment, prior to re-use. The use of biosolids can depend on the quality and the grade. These uses include application to agricultural land, sporting fields and event community gardens or residential properties.
Click on the image to view the diagram in full resolution.
How are biosolids currently used in the region?
The Australian Water Association highlights that biosolids are often applied as fertiliser or soil conditioner due to their high nutrient value to improve soil structure and water retention capabilities.
The Fraser Coast region currently uses biosolids in the agriculture sector for:
- Pasture (cattle)
- Sugar cane
- Cotton
- Turf farm
- Legumes
- Tree plantations
What are future possible uses for biosolids?
Additional uses aligning with industry, such as co-composting, may be available. Industry groups, research institutes and farmers associations may have a need for this product.
Biosolids can also be used as a source of fuel or energy.
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Initial Community Consultation
June - July 2020
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Review initial findings
July - September 2020
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Options identification and assessment
August - September 2020
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Community survey on proposed re-use options
October- November 2020
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Review community survey results and options analysisNovember 2020
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Reporting / Project CompletionDecember 2020 - January 2021
