Mark Reid, Hopetoun Water Treatment Plant Operator
Hopetoun’s tap water has been named amongst Victoria’s best.
A sample from Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water (GWMWater’s) Hopetoun Water Treatment Plant was named as one of three grand finalists at the Best Tasting Tap Water Competition in Bendigo.
Water suppliers from across Victoria went head-to-head, submitting samples of their finest drinking water for blind testing as part of the Water Industry Operations Association of Australia (WIOA) conference.
The 2026 title went to Coliban Water’s Bendigo Water Treatment Plant, which will represent Victoria at the national competition later this year, ahead of fellow finalists GWMWater and Barwon Water.
Judging criteria included the outcome of treatment processes, network management and operational discipline. While light-hearted in nature, the competition is regarded within the industry as a serious benchmark for drinking water quality across Victoria.
Adding to GWMWater’s success, Hopetoun Water Treatment Plant Operator Mark Reid was named WIOA Operator of the Year, recognising his outstanding contribution to water treatment operations and service continuity.
With more than 25 years’ experience in water treatment, Mark was recognised for his innovation, leadership and commitment to delivering safe drinking water to customers, particularly through his work on the Hopetoun tank renewal project. Mark led the installation of an above-ground pipeline and carried out critical system improvements that allowed water storage tanks to be reconfigured, ensuring uninterrupted water supply to the town and surrounding network during construction works.
Beyond technical expertise, Mark is widely respected for his calm approach, attention to detail and strong focus on safety. He has developed safer methods for plant maintenance, mentored other operators, and completed additional leadership training to support and strengthen the water treatment team.
The Hopetoun Water Treatment Plant plays a vital role in supplying drinking water to the local community. Its strong performance in the competition highlights the effectiveness of GWMWater’s treatment processes and the organisation’s ongoing focus on water quality.
GWMWater congratulates all Victorian water corporations and operators involved in the competition and is proud to see both Mark Reid and water from the Hopetoun Water Treatment Plant recognised among Victoria’s best.
Quote attributable to Mark Williams, Managing Director, GWMWater
“Being recognised at a state level in this competition is a fantastic achievement for our people.”
“Mark’s award reflects the skill, innovation and dedication our operators bring to their work every day, and our ongoing commitment to delivering safe, high-quality drinking water to the communities we serve.”
