The search is on to find SA’s finest drop (of water)

South Australian water treatment plants will soon go head-to-head for the title of best tasting tap water in the state, with the annual competition being held in-person for the first time since 2019 with COVID-19 restrictions limiting the event to online in recent years.

From reservoirs to rivers, South Australia’s drinking water comes from a variety of sources, with expert treatment plant operators working every day to make sure this water is safe and clean.

The event is organised by the Water Industry Operators Association of Australia (WIOA), with an independent judging panel of water industry experts assessing colour, clarity, odour and mouthfeel during blind taste tests.

SA Water's Water Production Engineer Liam Tothill said the competition recognises the efforts of local operational teams in delivering essential water services to their communities.

“It’s an opportunity to celebrate being able to access a reliable and safe supply of water at the turn of a tap, and the event is a fantastic way to raise awareness of the high quality of our drinking water,” Liam said.

“Among this year’s entries competing for top drop is Morgan Water Treatment Plant, which is a two-time state winner that supplies more than 130,000 homes and businesses from the state’s mid north all the way to central Eyre Peninsula.

“What makes Morgan’s entry extra special this year, is the additional work of local treatment plant operators in recent months to manage challenges brought on by the River Murray floods, where the plant sources water from.

“Throughout this flood event, local teams have helped maintain a safe, clean supply of drinking water to our customers, with no service disruptions.”

Other contenders for next week's event include our Leigh Creek Water Treatment Plant, as well as facilities at Hope Valley, Anstey Hill and Barossa, which are operated together with our metropolitan production and treatment alliance partner SUEZ.

TRILITY, who operate several of SA Water's treatment plants will submit samples from their water treatment plants at Renmark, Berri, Loxton, Barmera, Waikerie, Swan Reach, Mannum, Murray Bridge, Summit Storage and Tailem Bend.

The award for best tasting tap water will be judged and presented at the Murray Bridge Racing Club on Wednesday 1 March, as part of WIOA’s South Australia Conference and Exhibition. The winner of the state event will then go on to compete in the national competition.

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