Let’s face it, we all get obsessed by weather every now and then. Who doesn’t have a weather app on their phone? We all know the BoM is the go to place! Given their expertise in all things weather, what else is on offer from the BOM and how are water utilities involved? WSAA and the BoM recently hosted an information forum in Melbourne to allow water utilities the opportunity to understand what’s on offer and have input as the BoM further develops water climate tools. The upshot was an unparalleled national networking opportunity with 25 WSAA members and over 40 people involved.
Specific topics included; an overview of national water information, new technologies associated with climate and water insights, stream flow and flood forecasting, water resource assessments and rainfall intensity- frequency duration information, the national water account and national performance reporting.
We also heard from WSAA members with Jarrah O’Shea (Coliban Water) outlining ‘water trading data gaps’ and Ian Monks (City West Water) talking on why the industry needs a ‘water weather portal.’
The hands on nature of the day meant people could test out the tools available and see what could be useful in their own utility context. With such a variable climate in Australia there is an increasing need for the information and tools available from the BoM. WSAA looks forward to working closely with the BoM and to helping them shape future products and services that will ultimately benefit our members’ customers.
Interested in more? Members can access the presentations on the WSAA Member Portal.
21 Sep 2015
