How Do Operators Keep Recycled Water Flowing in Regional Communities?

SEASON 02 | EPISODE 37

Listen below:

How does wastewater become a resource for farms, parks, and industry? And who makes it happen?

In this episode of Our Water Connection, we shine a spotlight on water operators, the unsung heroes who, in this case, turn wastewater into a valuable resource for parks, farms, and industries.

We are joined by Ben Evans, Lead Operator at South East Water and 2025 WIOA Victorian Operator of the Year. With over 37 years of hands-on experience across regional Victoria, Ben shares how recycled water is produced, why it matters for local communities, and what life is really like behind the scenes at a wastewater treatment plant.

From technical challenges to community impact, this episode celebrates the essential role of operators in regional water resilience.

Go behind the scenes of wastewater operations

Learn how recycled water is safely produced and reused

Hear why it’s a game-changer for regional communities

This episode was recorded in Kaurna Country and the Kulin Nation.

Guest: Ben Evans

Ben is a seasoned water industry professional with over three decades of hands-on experience in water and wastewater operations across Victoria. Ben began his career as a trainee with the Pakenham (PAKEN-NAM) Water Board in the late 90s and has since held multiple operator roles at several key sites across regional Victoria. Ben has seen first-hand the transformation of the Victorian water sector. He is currently based in the coastal town of Port Fairy and works as a Lead Operator for South East Water, overseeing six wastewater treatment plants. Ben brings not only deep operational knowledge but also a passion for the people and places that make up our sector. Earlier this year, Ben was recognised as the 2025 Water Industry Operations Association (WIOA) Victorian Operator of the Year, in recognition of his outstanding service, leadership and dedication to the water industry across an impressive 37-year career.