22 January 2021
More than 130,000 Fijians were left without potable water after being hit by one of the strongest cyclones recorded in the Pacific.
Engineers from Army’s 6th Engineer Support Battalion, deployed with HMAS Adelaide, used Army’s only heavy-water production plant.
The desalination system was also used during Operation Bushfire Assist on Kangaroo Island.
Lance Corporal Brogan Cowie said island communities such as Vanua Levu used rainwater tanks for their potable water supply.
“With the devastation that occurred, locals have had their rainwater tanks destroyed, or their water contaminated by chemicals and debris,” Lance Corporal Cowie said.
“Our water production plant can provide fresh drinking water from multiple sources. We are using the ocean to produce upwards of 100,000 litres in 24 hours.”
Lance Corporal Brogan Cowie said the team of engineers produced more than 900,000 litres.
Once the water was produced it was held in 22,500-litre staging bladders, then tested before being delivered to the communities.
2nd General Health Battalion Environmental Health Officer Captain Nicole Eltringham said she tested the water and was the only person authorised to release it.
“We conducted the test to the same standard as back in Australia,” she said.
“The testing process involved looking at physical, chemical and biological parameters that let me know if the water was safe.
“We won’t release any water that is not classified potable and safe to drink.”
Captain Eltringham said it was satisfying to help.
“Helping people to have access to secure drinking water is rewarding,” she said.
“To be able to provide this and make a difference really is a wonderful feeling.”
