The not-to-be-missed 2026 Victorian Water Industry Operations Conference & Exhibition brings together hundreds of water professionals from across Victoria.
The Water Industry Operations Association of Australia (WIOA) will once again return to Bendigo for the 2026 Victorian Water Industry Operations Conference & Exhibition – its premier and largest event for operational professionals, innovators, and leaders shaping the future of the water industry.
Taking place on March 25–26 at the Bendigo Exhibition Centre, this annual gathering is more than a conference, it’s a celebration of the people behind the water pipes, pumps and processes in our communities.
The event will once again bring together hundreds of water professionals from across Victoria and beyond for two days of learning, networking, and solution-driven knowledge sharing. Delegates can expect a strong technical program featuring practical case studies, real-world challenges, and the latest advances in water and wastewater operations, in an effort to ‘bridging the knowledge gap in water operations’ – the theme for next year’s edition.
Honouring excellence
The event will recognise and reward excellence in operations through WIOA’s nationally respected awards program, which highlights the dedication, advancement and hard work of the operators who ensure water quality, reliability, and efficiency across the country.
The Operator of the Year Award celebrates an individual who consistently demonstrates exceptional technical skill, leadership, and commitment to their role. This prestigious award acknowledges those who not only perform at the highest level but also mentor and inspire their peers to do the same.
The Team of the Year Award recognises collaboration at its best, highlighting groups that have achieved outstanding results through innovation, communication, and teamwork. Whether it is tackling complex operational challenges or implementing creative efficiency improvements, these teams embody the power of collective expertise.
The PASS (Problem Accepted, Solution Supplied) Award encourages creative thinking by honouring individuals or teams who have identified an operational issue and developed a clever, practical solution to improve performance, safety, or sustainability.
The New Operator of the Year Award shines a light on the next generation of water professionals – those who are bringing fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and dedication to the sector. It’ s an opportunity to celebrate emerging talent and support the future of the industry.
Recognising excellence in knowledge sharing, the Best Paper by an Operator Award honours an operator who delivers the most outstanding technical presentation at the conference. This highlights the importance of communicating challenges and real-world insights to strengthen the water industry.
By championing these awards, WIOA continues to advocate for the water industry operations sector – ensuring that those on the frontline of water and wastewater management receive the recognition they deserve. Mark your calendar and join WIOA in Bendigo this March. Whether you’re presenting, networking, exhibiting, or cheering on your peers, the 2026 Victorian Water Industry Operations Conference & Exhibition is your chance to connect, celebrate, and shape the next wave of operational excellence in Australia’s water industry.
