COVID-19 pandemic arrived on our shores more than a year ago. Allow me to reflect on the way the Victorian water industry has reacted and played its part. I focus here on Victorian water industry as I have not been following developments in other states. So Victoria it is, my home state. I’ll break up this post in three part: impact on water industry services, supply chain, and its contribution in the fight against COVID-19.
The water industry has been surprisingly resilient in maintaining its core operation of water supply and sewerage treatment. Understanding its position and the critical nature of its work, Melbourne Water and other water authorities were quick enough to create safe bubbles for operational staff. All non-operational staff quickly found themselves glued to their work screens in a different environment: their homes.
The economy has been impacted in ways it’s never before. While other industries laid employees off and reduced the size of their operation, those businesses working in the water industry were generally unaffected. With strict COVID-19 rules, the industry perhaps was still one of the major contributors to the economy in the country. This to me was another sign that not only the industry is resilient in providing its core services but it also has a resilient and reliable supply chain.
Melbourne Water and other authorities are still in the fight! They are now actively engaged in sewerage testing to identify potential COVID-19 hotspots. This has helped the state government to get on the front foot in its fight against this “invisible” enemy. They have also introduced programs to boost employment and training in the industry such as Working For Victoria Waterway Blitz. Those looking for work can’t go wrong by looking into some of these opportunities.
COVID-19 vaccination is now in full swing and the future while uncertain is very promising for the industry. It is reassuring that such important institutions have proven to be resilient despite very difficult odds!
Stay well and stay safe!
QANAT 