WIMWA leads the way with Smart Sewer and AI Innovation

The Whitsunday Isaac Mackay Water Alliance (WIMWA) is preparing to launch a groundbreaking three-year project that could redefine how regional councils manage sewer networks. With funding secured through QWRAP, WIMWA will trial a cutting-edge Smart Sewer and Artificial Intelligence (AI) initiative.

This collaborative project will combine real-time data collection with advanced AI analytics to improve sewer network performance and reduce environmental and public health risks. The initiative includes:

Deployment of Smart Sewer Sensors
Continuous level sensors will be installed in key sewer manholes across the three council areas. These sensors will provide real-time data on sewer levels, enabling early detection of inflow and infiltration issues, particularly during wet weather events.
AI and Machine Learning via Stormharvester
The project will leverage Stormharvester’s AI platform, which integrates data from sewer sensors, network monitoring systems, and external sources such as hyperlocal rainfall and groundwater levels. This powerful tool will:
o Establish baseline sewer network performance
o Detect anomalies and predict potential overflows
o Inform operational planning and guide future capital investment.

A Smarter, Safer Future for Wastewater Management

The primary goals of the project are to:

Proactively manage environmental and public health risks associated with sewer overflows during storm events
Optimise capital investment in wastewater infrastructure by using predictive insights to guide decision-making and direct active programs which manage inflow and infiltration in sewers.

Participating Councils are facing large capital upgrades for trunk infrastructure and treatment plants and it is expected that the information from this trial will help optimise capital investment and contribute to keeping downward pressure on customer costs.

By working together, with the support of QWRAP Partners the WIM Councils can share the innovation risk and reduce costs. The regional scale of the project also enhances the effectiveness of the AI analytics, allowing the Stormharvester tool to be developed and refined using a broader dataset.

A Long-Term Vision with Statewide Benefits

Running over three years, the project will allow for comprehensive evaluation of the AI system’s performance across varying weather conditions. This extended timeframe is essential to fully understand the benefits and limitations of the technology.

Importantly, WIMWA is committed to sharing the outcomes and learnings from this project with other QWRAP regions. The insights gained could pave the way for broader adoption of smart sewer and AI technologies across Queensland, helping more councils to improve service delivery, reduce risks, and make smarter infrastructure investments.