A former chief executive officer (CEO) of a well respected Australian water organisation has won one of the water association’s highest accolades.
The 2017 Premier’s Water Medal for Water Professional of the Year was presented to Richard Hopkins, former CEO of the International Centre of Excellence in Water Resources Management (ICE WaRM) at the 2017 Australian Water Association’s South Australian Water Awards, held in Adelaide.
The awards recognise the outstanding contribution of individuals and organisations in the South Australian water industry across innovation, research, infrastructure and water projects.
Mr Hopkins has had a 40-year career in water management and is recognised as an international expert in his field, having worked in more than 20 countries.
In recent years, his leadership has led to the recognition of ICE WaRM as the premier water training centre in Australia, which has been a critical factor in establishing SA’’s reputation as a world leader in water resources management.
Through his leadership, strong links have been developed between ICE WaRM, the Water Industry Alliance, Goyder Institute for Water Research, SA Water and the three main South Australian universities, ensuring a concerted and consistent promotion of the water resources management expertise in the state.
ICE WaRM’s managing director, Darryl Day, congratulated Mr Hopkins on his achievement.
“ICE WaRM congratulates Richard in winning this prestigious award which highlights the outstanding work he has accomplished in Australia and internationally,” Mr Day said.
A number of other water awards were also presented on the night, with SA Water Minister, Ian Hunter, and a record number of guests and finalists attending the water awards.
Australian Water Association Chief Executive, Jonathan McKeown, said 2017 saw a range of award submissions from a number of water utilities, universities, research institutes and councils, with projects ranging from urban and regional utilities infrastructure, to agricultural enterprises and public health studies.
“This is testament to the great work being carried out across all areas of the water sector in South Australia,” Mr McKeown said.
