The $150 million Rivergate & Marina Shipyard destination has announced the implementation of the world’s leading, marina-based water recycling plan.

Rivergate is taking shape on the Brisbane River at Murarrie and is due to open its first marina berths next month.

Rivergate Director, Mr Stephen Gosling said that the Rivergate water recycling system for the wash down area and site runoff was one of the most sophisticated systems ever installed in Queensland by a private organisation.

“The Marina Hardstand and Refit Complex is due to open in April and we wanted to ensure that the highest quality water treatment systems are in place from day one.

“It’s been implemented at a cost of over $400,000 which is very significant for a project of this size.

“In doing so, we wanted to not just meet the law. We were determined to surpass current requirements in order to set the standard for all river and ocean-based commercial operations in Australia.

“As a result, the Rivergate system goes above and beyond the stringent EPA requirements applied to rain and pollutant harvesting.

“We have installed two central drains on the wash down slab, where boats will be blasted for anti-fouling and four drains on the hardstand area, which is connected to the system.

“They will empty into a 5,000 litre concrete tank located underground so that no ‘dirty’ water flows back to the Brisbane River,” he said.

Mr Gosling said that Rivergate had also invested in a Clearmake machine, which separated clean water from “sludge”.

“The clean water is placed in a ”good water” holding tank and the sludge into another separate tank.

“Additionally, a first flush system has been installed so that the first 12mm of runoff from the hardstand will run into a weir system.

“ A 300,000 litre good water underground tank will also harvest roof rainwater.

“The rainwater will be recycled and used to feed the water blasting system on the wash down slab,” he said.

Mr Gosling said that the water recycling and harvesting system would allow Rivergate to be self sufficient for water for up to three months should it need to be.

“The Rivergate team are environmentally committed and this approach will be reflected in all activities within the development,” he said.