Water

Water is an essential resource and, in order to lead healthy lives, people need a reliable supply of clean drinking water. Water is also used in the industrial processes we depend on for food, energy and the production of many of the products we use daily. Water is vital for human development.

Remote areas of Cape York rely largely on groundwater for domestic use and for cattle stations. Rainwater tanks are also commonly used to supply drinking water at the individual dwelling level. Efforts to establish and maintain supplies are constrained by funding and supply chain challenges, and must also consider the cultural significance of the land and water. Climate resilient infrastructure is needed to combat monsoon flooding and cyclones.

What ideas can you come up with, in partnership with the community, to improve the resilience and availability of the water supply to meet current and future needs ?

1. Water management

The wet and dry seasons in Cape York are challenging for water supply, from flooding damage to significant shortages of water. What innovative ideas can you come up with for reliable and climate resilient water access?

2. Water safety

Surface water access and supplies in cattle station areas are prone to contamination. What solutions can you come up with for monitoring water quality and treatment on homelands and Ranger bases?

3. Mobile water supplies

Many water supplies do not need to be operating year-round, as Rangers and other people working on Country may only be on site for the dry season. Can you think of any ideas for mobile water supplies?

[*1] This project spans several design areas

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