Since the first European settlers arrived in South Australia in the 1830s the growth and success of the State can be traced directly to the introduction and growth of reliable water supplies.

 

The formation of the Waterworks and Drainage Commission (later the Engineering and Water Supply Department, now SA Water) 150 years ago set the stage for the creation of a unique water supply system to quench the thirst of a growing colony.

 

In the early days of the colony, Adelaide relied on the River Torrens for its water supply. However, variable rainfall, inconsistent flows and poor sewerage leading to the pollution of the waterway meant the availability of quality water could not be guaranteed.

 

The water supply issue for Adelaide was partly resolved with the construction of the now decommissioned Thorndon Park Reservoir in 1860, followed by a series of reservoirs and water filtration plants over the next 120 years to boost the supply of quality water.

 

Providing water to regional South Australia presented particular challenges, given the vast distances involved and the extremely limited number and nature of natural water sources.

 

With almost visionary forethought, the early engineers conceived, planned and built a series of smaller dams and a number of massive pipelines to transport water from the River Murray to Adelaide and remote regions of the State, opening up the way for the growth of industry and settlement.

 

As important as supplying water but often overlooked has been SA Water’s program of improving wastewater systems.

 

For over 70 years we have been treating wastewater, pioneering the recycling of this resource and improving the treatment process to create a better environment for all South Australians.

 

This century we're introducting  more innovative methods of supplying water - such as desalination - and reducing reliance on water supplies through even greater treated wastewater recycling.

 

SA Water is heavily involved in Water for Good, which identifies sustainable sources of water for the future, and is encouraging water conservation and the responsible use of our water supplies.

 

Over the past 150 years, SA Water and its predecessors have employed tens of thousands of South Australians in operations across the State.

 

We have held a proud place in the history of South Australia - and our commitment will continue to grow for many years to come.