Delivering safe and reliable sewage treatment
Treatment Plant Operations team
Behind the scenes, our Treatment Plant Operations team works every day to safely treat sewage, protect our environment and produce recycled water for future use. Working across 8 treatment plants, the team plays an important role in keeping our communities healthy and our services reliable. Sewerage is easy to overlook, but it matters every day.
Meet the team
Our Treatment Plant Operations team brings together operators, engineers and project representatives who work together to manage complex treatment processes and deliver reliable services for our customers.
Operators manage the day-to-day operation of our treatment plants. Engineers provide technical expertise and take a longer-term view of plant performance. Project representatives support new construction and improvements, making sure operational needs are considered along the way.
Manager Keith McCarthy says, “We have a big team of people who bring different skills and experiences. Everyone has something to contribute, and we’re always learning from each other.”
Behind the work
Once sewage leaves homes and businesses, our Treatment Plant Operations team works behind the scenes to safely treat it before it's returned to the environment or reused.
It’s complex work that requires technical knowledge, careful monitoring and teamwork.
"There’s a lot happening behind the scenes to make sure our plants operate safely," says Treatment Plant Operations Optimiser David Gavin. "We monitor what’s happening across the treatment process, respond to changes and use our experience to make decisions every day."
Using technology and real-time monitoring, the team keeps a close eye on plant performance and responds quickly whenever needed.
The team also works closely with colleagues across the business, including Network Sites, Reactive Maintenance and Sewer Operations, to keep services running safely and efficiently.
"Keeping our plants running safely isn’t something we do alone," says Keith. "We work closely with other teams across the business because everyone brings different knowledge and skills. Working together helps us solve problems and keep services running reliably."
Making an impact
The work of Treatment Plant Operations helps protect public health, support our communities and care for the environment. One of the ways the team creates value is through recycled water.
"We produce Class A recycled water that is supplied to customers through recycled water networks, and Class B recycled water for councils, farmers and industry - helping reduce demand on our precious drinking water supplies," says Tiffany Goncalves, Treatment Plant Operator.
Treatment plants also play an important role in supporting local environments.
Our Lilydale Sewage Treatment Plant is a known hotspot for birdwatchers. Associate Professor Rohan Clarke from Monash University’s School of Biological Sciences followed up a sighting at the site and confirmed a minimum of 5 Tawny Grassbirds were present.
"Sewage treatment plants provide important refuges for wetland species, attracting water birds to the treatment ponds and various reed-loving songbirds to the wetland fringes," said Dr Clarke.
The team sees the impact of their work every day – from protecting our waterways to creating recycled water that can be used again in our communities.
Life in the team
Working across 8 treatment plants means collaboration and trust are essential.
They support each other by sharing knowledge, solving problems together and helping colleagues when challenges arise.
"People are always willing to help each other," David says. "Whether it’s sharing knowledge, working through a problem or supporting someone at another site, there’s a strong sense of teamwork."
The mix of expertise, teamwork and the right tools help the team keep our plants operating safely, efficiently and in line with environmental standards – supporting healthier communities and environmental outcomes.
"There’s always an opportunity to learn something new," says Tiffany. "We’re encouraged to share ideas, build our skills and look for better ways to do things."
Looking ahead
The Treatment Plant Operations team continues to invest in capability and improve the way it works. A development program for operators and engineers is helping strengthen skills, support knowledge sharing and create stronger connections between day-to-day operations and continuous improvement.
"Developing our people helps us keep improving. Building capability means we can continue delivering great outcomes for our customers, our communities and the environment," Keith says.
Start your journey at Yarra Valley Water
Read more stories about life at Yarra Valley Water or click on the link below to find your next role with us.