A University of the Sunshine Coast Civil Engineering student whose thesis is focused on data from digital water meters has won the Michael Woodhouse Engineers Australia undergraduate award.
Oskar Hill, a vacation student at Unitywater who has also secured a spot in the utility’s graduate program in 2025, said his study analysed data from 22 residential meters over a 12-month period.
“The aim was to improve water management and conservation strategies,” Oskar said.
“The analysis focused on identifying water consumption patterns across seasons, weekdays versus weekends, and time of day, along with developing thresholds for detecting excessive consumption and potential leaks.”
Oskar, an Aroona resident, said his study investigated leak detection by identifying periods of continuous water consumption that exceeded 48 hours.
“Identified leaks were classified as either minor or major based on their flow rates,” he said.
Oskar was elated to receive his award as a promising future water engineer.
“I am honoured and grateful to receive this award,” Oskar said.
“It inspires me to keep striving for innovation and to make a meaningful difference in sustainable water practices.”
Unitywater Executive Manager People Culture and Safety Kenan Hibberd said the organisation was committed to nurturing local talent to continue building its future workforce.
“We’re fortunate to offer a wide range of careers in the water industry,” Mr Hibberd said.
“As one of the largest employers and service providers in the Sunshine Coast, Noosa and Moreton Bay, we are proud to offer opportunities like our Vacation Student Program and Graduate Program to our region’s brightest students.
“We’re very proud of Oskar’s achievements and are keenly watching how he’ll develop here at Unitywater.”
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