To our presenters, participants, volunteers, sponsors, and exhibitors – thank you for supporting and attending the 2026 VIC Water Industry Operations Conference and Exhibition, held on 25-26 March in Bendigo.
Together, we made a meaningful impact on the water operations community. Your involvement reflects the strong spirit of connection and leadership that continues to drive our industry forward, a true celebration of talent, innovation, and operational excellence.
With over 1,490 attendees, a 9.5% increase on 2025, this year’s event marks our largest and most successful Victorian Conference to date.
The continued growth and momentum are a testament to the strength of our industry, and we’re excited to confirm we’ll be returning to Bendigo in 2027, watch this space!
This year’s program showcased practical, real insights from across the water operations sector, including:
- North East Water – Clear Water Storages: Critical Learnings for the Application of Protective Coatings
- SA Water & SUEZ – Sludgy Solutions: Managing Excessive Sludge at Barossa WTP
- Greater Western Water – Re-Purposing Soil Hydro Project
The annual competitions and activities from the Reece Civil + Viadux Main Tapping Competition delivered another high-energy showcase of skill and teamwork, to our first Trans-Tasman Main Tapping Competition, strengthening industry ties across Australia and New Zealand and our IXOM Best Tasting Tap Water Contest, featuring seven impressive entries and three outstanding finalists, this year’s event showcased success.
Our fully booked Women in Water Operations Breakfast welcomed over 40 attendees for an engaging and meaningful start to the conference. This session focused on fostering connection, supporting inclusion, and working together to reduce barriers, helping position water operations as an attractive, viable, and visible career path for all.
We extend our sincere thanks to all our sponsors. Your support and partnership play a vital role in making events like this possible and in strengthening the water operations sector.
2026 VIC Conference Award Winners & Recognitions
Congratulations to all our award winners, your achievements are a true reflection of the dedication, effort, and hard work that goes into delivering essential water supply across Australia! View full gallery here.
