One of the most urgent challenges facing our State - securing a sustainable water source - will be debated at The University of Western Australia on March 18.

Organised by the Conservation Council of WA, with the support of the Water Corporation, it will examine one divisive solution, used elsewhere in Australia, of recycling waste-water.

Key speakers include the Hon John Kobelke, Minister for the Environment;  controversial Toowoomba mayor Di Thorley, whose push for waste-water was defeated in a referendum;  and Steven McKiernan, Water Policy Officer, Conservation Council of WA.

Questions addressed will include:

• Is waste-water recycling the answer?
• What targets should the Western Australian community be looking to reach in the next 20 years in relation to using treated waste-water?
• How do we reach these targets?

Speakers will consider the complexities, strengths and weaknesses associated with waste-water recycling, with all participants given the opportunity to engage with critical ideas and seek solutions to influence the direction of sustainable outcomes for water, for the environment and for human use.

The event will be held at UWA's University Club from 9am to 5pm on Tuesday, March 18.

Media references

Jessie Cochrane (Conservation Council of WA)  61 8  9420 7266  /  0439 928 674
Janine MacDonald (UWA Public Affairs)  61 8  6488 5563  /  0432 637 716