We’ve been shortlisted! Celebrating a nomination for some of our most meaningful work – bringing reliable drinking water to the remote Indigenous community of Cherbourg.
IPS is proud to announce that we have been named a finalist in the Australian Water Association’s (AWA) Innovation Award for 2025 – 2026. The recognition highlights our role in the Cherbourg Water Infrastructure Project, an initiative addressing longstanding water security challenges in one of Queensland’s most disadvantaged and remote Aboriginal communities.
Working in partnership with the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers, Queensland Health, and the Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council, IPS led a multi-stage technical investigation and delivered a prioritised action plan.
This work identified urgent risks, provided practical upgrade pathways and ultimately helped secure $26 million in matched state and federal funding for critical infrastructure improvements – including treatment plant upgrades, replacement of trunk mains and a new reservoir to ensure reliable supply for higher elevation homes.
Founder and Managing Director Sascha Kurz said being recognised by the AWA was a proud moment for the IPS team.
“For the Cherbourg community, this project will mean the end of boil water notices and the assurance of having access to safe, reliable drinking water, which is a fundamental human right,” she said.
“Our goal with this project was to help develop infrastructure solutions that are not only innovative, but also sustainable and designed to create lasting value for the community. It’s important to get it right, because the benefits of this work will be felt for generations.
“To have our contribution acknowledged at a state level is incredibly meaningful. Regardless of whether we take home the award, being named a finalist is recognition of the dedication and collaboration that went into this project – from our team, partners and the Cherbourg community itself.”
Congratulations to the entire project team on this nomination and to the other deserving finalists. The winner of the Infrastructure Project Innovation Award will be announced at the QLD Gala Dinner & Awards Night event in Brisbane on 2 October 2025.
We hope to see you there!
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