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THE CHALLENGE:
Brisbane City Council faced a complex water management challenge at Nudgee Waterhole Reserve, a site of exceptional Aboriginal cultural significance containing archaeological relics and one of only two remaining intact Aboriginal Bora Rings in Brisbane.
The approximately 20,000 m² waterbody exhibited water quality issues:
- Dissolved oxygen levels below 40% saturation (3.75 mg/L in upper layers, 3.62 mg/L near bottom)
- Water stagnation and poor circulation
- Accumulation of organic matter
- Conditions favourable for algal blooms
Traditional water treatment methods were unsuitable due to the site’s cultural heritage status, which required a non-invasive approach that would preserve archaeological features while effectively addressing water quality concerns.
OUR SOLUTION:
BioRemedy designed and implemented an innovative solar-powered aeration system specifically engineered to respect the site’s cultural significance while dramatically improving water quality:
- Twin Splash 2001 Surface Aerators: Selected for their naturalistic fountain effect, efficient oxygen transfer, and ability to promote circulation without disturbing the waterbody floor
- Single Solar Array Power System: Featuring photovoltaic panels and battery storage to ensure consistent operation without requiring grid connection
- Strategic Positioning: Aerators placed to maximise water movement while minimising visual impact and avoiding interference with heritage features
This solution eliminated the need for chemical treatments, extensive infrastructure development, or ongoing electricity costs—perfectly aligning with both environmental sustainability goals and cultural heritage preservation requirements.
THE RESULTS:
Post-implementation measurements revealed remarkable improvements in water quality:
Dissolved Oxygen Levels
- Before: <40% saturation (3.75 mg/L upper layer, 3.62 mg/L bottom)
- After: ~80% saturation (7.75 mg/L upper layer, 6.62 mg/L bottom)
This represents an increase of 106% in the upper water layer and 83% near the bottom—achieving levels optimal for supporting diverse aquatic life.
Additional Benefits:
- Elimination of water stratification
- Improved water clarity
- Reduced surface scum and floating debris
- Enhanced aesthetic appeal of the waterbody
- Zero ongoing energy costs
- Minimal maintenance requirements
WHY THIS MATTERS:
This project demonstrates how innovative, sustainable technology can successfully address urban water quality challenges while respecting cultural heritage values. For water managers facing similar challenges with stagnant waterbodies in sensitive locations, this approach offers several advantages:
1. Cultural Respect: The non-invasive, low-impact installation preserves site integrity
2. Sustainability: Zero emissions operation with no chemical inputs
3. Cost-Effectiveness: Elimination of ongoing energy costs and minimal maintenance requirements
4. Effectiveness: Dramatic improvement in key water quality parameters
5. Aesthetic Integration: Natural fountain effect enhances rather than detracts from the site
ABOUT THE TECHNOLOGY:
The Splash 2001 surface aerators featured in this installation offer:
- 0.75 kW nominal power
- Maximum turnover capacity of 3,200 L/min each
- Operational depth requirement of at least 1 metre
- Naturalistic plume size of approximately 0.5m × 1.0m
- Powered by solar energy, the system operates reliably year-round with minimal intervention required.
PROJECT TEAM:
The success of this project reflects the expertise and collaboration of:
Ben Walsh, Manager BioRemedy: Led the design and implementation with his background in Fisheries and Aquaculture Management
Brisbane City Council: Provided crucial guidance on cultural heritage considerations
BioRemedy Installation Team: Executed the installation with careful attention to site sensitivity
For more information on how solar-powered aeration might benefit your water management challenges, contact our team today.