Oaky Creek Coal
Cost-effective wastewater solution for Bowen Basin resources operation
PROJECT DETAILS
Location:
Bowen Basin, QLD
Product:
100kL Kubota MBBR
Capability:
Consult, design, and construct STP
True Water has provided a cost-effective wastewater solution to a major mining operation in Queensland’s Bowen Basin. By utilising advanced Kubota wastewater technology, we ensured full compliance with environmental regulations while significantly reducing operational costs. This solution demonstrates superior performance and delivers long-term efficiency and sustainability.
When Oaky Creek Coal invited tenders for the design, supply, and installation of an upgraded Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), True Water stepped in to deliver a cost-effective wastewater solution. The existing plant, designed for 160 equivalent people (EP), was serving over 300 persons per day and failing to meet the water quality standards set by the mine’s Environmental Authority.
True Water’s task was to upgrade the aging wastewater treatment plant that servcied the site’s infrastructure area. We implemented a 100kL Kubota Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR), designed to serve up to 400 EP. To increase efficiency, we retained essential infrastructure, such as the concrete storage tank, electrical systems, sewer connections, and the treated wastewater irrigation system. This approach allowed us to deliver a cost-effective wastewater solution that met stakeholder requirements and allowed for future expansion.
True Water managed the decommissioning of the existing system, removing 40,000L of liquid waste.
By utilising advanced Kubota wastewater technology, we ensured full compliance with environmental regulations while significantly reducing operational costs
True Water installed a 100kL Kubota Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR), designed to serve up to 400 EP.
Scalable by design, the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) enables the client to control capital investment while minimising ongoing operational and management expenses.
The project was completed as a Supported Installation with the client completing all civil works and True Water providing a certified wastewater technician to supervise and complete commissioning.
The powder-coated aluminium control enclosure is prefabricated in True Water's workshops to ensure quality and ease of installation.
The installation process is completed efficiently and with precision, ensuring reduced time and cost constraints.
Our highly trained technicians continue to play a key role in ensuring long-term compliance and low-cost operation of the WWTP.
The modular wastewater treatment tanks are installed below ground with the control systems housed above ground in powder coated aluminum and stainless steel enclosures.
ISO-certified wastewater treatment infrastructure
Our industry-leading infrastructure is lightweight, easy to install, and manufactured to ISO standards. As a result, the system guarantees high water quality, low operational costs, and minimal environmental impact. Additionally, its below-ground installation reduces both land use and freight costs. Scalable by design, the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) enables the client to control capital investment while minimising ongoing operational and management expenses.
The design included internal buffer storage and a gravity flow system, ensuring continued operation during power outages. Backed by a robust warranty, we guaranteed the plant’s reliable performance. Moreover, we used standardised components and ISO-accredited Japanese technology to ensure maximum efficiency and performance.
True Water’s STP components were manufactured to ISO-certification and design specifications, and all essential components were assembled and tested before delivery to ensure quick installation. This included the fabrication of an advanced STP controller with audio/visual alarms, telemetry monitoring, and a durable, powder-coated aluminium control enclosure.
Superior project delivery secures compliance
Throughout the project, True Water maintained open communication with the client, meeting regularly to review progress and align on upcoming activities. Our Integrated Environmental Management System guided all project activities, ensuring both regulatory compliance and environmental protection.
We developed a detailed Works Execution Plan (WEP) that outlined a structured approach to managing the construction of the WWTP. This plan ensured compliance with contractual obligations, work health and safety requirements, environmental regulations, and industry standards. During installation, True Water managed the decommissioning of the existing system, removing 40,000L of liquid waste, and thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the STP’s internal components.
The fast and efficient installation process involved retrofitting the in-ground concrete tank for sludge storage, connecting hydraulic pipework, and managing all civil works and excavations. In addition, the installation of the new STP controller and switchboard ensured smooth operation and continuous monitoring of the system.
Commissioning, asset management, and remote monitoring
Following the installation, True Water comissioned and tested the STP, provided detailed reporting, and conducted effluent testing to confirm compliance with environmental standards. We also provided training to onsite staff for day to day operations, ensuring they were fully prepared to manage the system between service visits.
Moreover, True Water implemented a robust asset management plan ensure the consistent operation and maintenance of the Oaky Creek North Coal Mine WWTP. Our highly trained technicians continue to play a key role in ensuring long-term compliance and low-cost operation of the WWTP, making asset management an integral part of their responsibilities.
True Water has also developed an affordable and quality remote-monitoring platform. Our advanced telemetry software enables our operators to make informed decisions regarding scheduled and proactive maintenance. This system is supported by an online portal that provides day-to-day asset management and monitoring. As a result, it offers accurate, immediate, real-time data.
