Winners of the Infrastructure Project Innovation Award (Regional) - photo credit - AWA Vic Awards
Greener schools, community recreation spaces and playing surfaces across Beaufort took out the top prize at the 2025 Australian Water Association (Vic) Awards on Thursday 16 October at Melbourne Town Hall.
The Beaufort Reuse for Recreation project, which developed infrastructure to create safe and sustainable local reuse wastewater, and deliver long-term environmental benefits, was announced as the winner of the Infrastructure Project Innovation Award (Regional).
The project was the result of a $3 million investment focused on integrated water management with the benefits extending to the Beaufort secondary and primary school, Goldfields Recreation Reserve, and the local golf course and croquet club.
Quotes attributable to Central Highlands Water Managing Director, Jeff Haydon:
“The AWA Awards provide an excellent opportunity to recognise the many achievements of individuals and organisations across the water industry.
“The water industry collectively strives to improve outcomes for communities and the environment. These awards showcase the critical and creative thinking of the experts in their field, to achieve positive results for all.
“Beaufort Reuse for Recreation is a wonderful example of sustainability focused solutions, climate adaptation and community wellbeing focused actions.”
The AWA awards showcase innovation, leadership, infrastructure and inspiring positive change to drive a sustainable water future.
Winners from the 62nd Annual Victorian Water Awards will now head to the Australian Water Awards at OzWater’26 in May 2026 in Brisbane.
