Eversons Food Processors wins 2012 Prime Minister’s Water Wise Award

Senator Don Farrell, Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and Urban Water, has congratulated Macleay River Meats - trading as Eversons Food Processors - on winning the 2012 Prime Minister’s Water Wise Award.

Senator for Victoria Jacinta Collins presented the award on behalf of Prime Minister Julia Gillard at the savewater! awards gala dinner in Melbourne on 26 October.

The prestigious Prime Minister’s Water Wise Award showcases commercial and industrial innovation in water efficiency. It is open to all commercial and industrial water users.

Senator Farrell said Eversons Food Processors, of Frederickton, NSW, received the award due to its strong commitment to water efficiency and sustainability.

“I congratulate Eversons Food Processors for recognising the need to minimise its impact on the environment and for taking action to reduce both its water usage and disposal of waste to landfill,” Senator Farrell said.

“The company has reduced its water usage by close to 95%, which is an amazing achievement.

“Eversons’ water savings were particularly commendable, given the need to use drinking-quality water in the food production process for health and safety reasons.

“A major focus of Eversons’ water-saving strategy was the construction of three on-site wastewater ponds - two aerobic and one anaerobic - and the commissioning of a wastewater treatment system.”

The other finalists in the Prime Minister’s Water Wise Award were Serco Australia - which was highly commended - Cameron’s Nursery and Sakata Rice Snacks.

Outstanding achievements in water efficiency by business, schools, individuals, government and community sectors were also recognised at the event.