PROJECT DETAILS
Location:
Mingo, QLD
Product:
Kubota MBBR Biological Nutrient Reduction
Capability:
Design, construct, and install WWTP
True Water delivers wastewater project management in demanding environments. Likewise, our commitment to regulatory excellence and cutting-edge treatment methods enables us to meet the most challenging scenarios. Recently, our team installed a Wastewater Treatment System (WTTS) at Mingo Crossing Caravan and Recreation Park (MCCRP).
Situated 125 kilometres west of Bundaberg along the Burnett River, this popular tourist destination is owned and operated by North Burnett Regional Council. Additionally, this waterbody and its surrounding areas are vital for various ecosystems, including wetlands, riparian zones, and floodplains. Moreover, the river is crucial for maintaining regional water quality, providing drinking water, and supporting agricultural irrigation.
In early 2013, Tropical Cyclone Oswald brought 400 millimetres (16 inches) of rain to Queensland in four days, overwhelming the area. Consequently, the overflow from the full Paradise Dam pushed the Burnett River to record levels, causing $2.4 billion in damages to homes, businesses, farmland, and infrastructure.
Effective wastewater treatment project management
True Water’s effective wastewater treatment project management helped rebuild this camping and fishing hotspot. Specifically, we specialise in sewage management for challenging sites with strict regulatory requirements. Our experience includes designing, supplying, and installing systems in flood-prone areas, near drinking water catchments, and sites with high groundwater levels, bores, and proximity to rivers, lakes, dams, and beaches.
In response to the flooding, NBRC enlisted a principal contractor, utilising state government flood relief funds. As a result, True Water secured the contract through competitive tendering. We designed, constructed, and installed an on-site Sewage Treatment Plant (STP). Our expertise was crucial in obtaining an approved Environmental Relevant Activity.
To address varying flow rates in accommodation settings, we incorporated a 10,000 L/day Kubota MBBR Biological Nutrient Reduction Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) into the design. This setup ensured consistent effluent quality at specified flow rates. Furthermore, we integrated a 1,700 square metre Subsurface Drip Irrigation (SDI) system into the design and obtained necessary statutory approvals, including detailed drawings and specifications, workplace health and safety certification, and building approval for the STP and control shed.
Swift installation of Kubota WWTP
We achieved fast and efficient installation through comprehensive manufacture, assembly, and testing before delivery. Additionally, we manufactured the Kubota STP modules and essential components under ISO:14001 and ISO:9001 certification. This standardised production ensures operational surety and guarantees a strong performance-specific warranty.
During installation, testing, and commissioning of the STP, we coordinated the rising main connection from the amenities block pump well, installed inlet screenings, grit and gross pollutant removal systems, and chlorine disinfection. Moreover, we also installed instrumentation, control systems, site safety facilities, and all process piping and valves.
We prepared an operation and maintenance manual, obtained all required authority certificates, and tested the plant to confirm it was operating according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Consequently, this process included quality assurance tests and checks of electrical, communications, and hydraulic services. We cleaned up the site before system commissioning. Finally, we undertook an extensive asset management services contract for a 12-month period.
Expanding STP capacity for future growth
In 2017, NBRC approached True Water again with expansion plans. This included adding powered caravan sites, new “glamping” cabins, more grassed campsites, and a proposed new amenity building. Our assessment of the existing STP found it functioning well, yet daily hydraulic flows were exceeding capacity. Although we deemed the existing Environmental Development Approval sufficient to handle the increased demand, we advised increasing the Kubota WWTP to 42kL/day, an additional 20kL above the existing plant. Similarly, we added a 25kL reinforced concrete sewage pump well, which increased daily treatment capacity and buffer storage, reducing the volume required for wet weather storage.
Furthermore, our team recommended redesigning the Effluent Dispersal Area (EDA) to accommodate the increased demand for treated wastewater. This scope of work included supplying and installing all internal pipework, fittings, and connections for an Engineered Dispersal System (EDS). We freighted sand and gravel to the site and supplied labor for the construction process. To limit civil and fencing costs, we also utilised the existing EDA infrastructure.
Our detailed wastewater project management resulted in a robust and efficient solution for the client. The expanded infrastructure met all project requirements for environmental sustainability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. True Water oversaw every step of the commissioning process, ensuring quality assurance, testing, operational training, and warranty implementation. During client handover, we provided operational training and implemented a robust asset maintenance strategy.