The Clarence Regional Aquatic Centre has been recognised as an Outstanding Nominee in the Project of the Year category at the 2026 Engineers Australia Excellence Awards.
The aquatic centre received the Outstanding Nominee recognition for its engineering excellence, innovation and benefits to the Clarence Valley community.
Two other major Clarence Valley Council projects, Bluff Bridge Replacement and Rushforth Road Water Treatment Plant Reservoir Upgrade, were also recognised as finalists in the category.
Clarence Valley Council’s Acting General Manager, Adam Cameron, said these three important projects continue to make a significant difference to the community.
“The Clarence Regional Aquatic Centre, Bluff Bridge Replacement and Rushforth Road Water Treatment Plant Reservoir Upgrade each demonstrate how quality infrastructure can make a lasting difference to our community.
“Being recognised at the Engineers Australia Excellence Awards is a wonderful acknowledgement of the planning, expertise and collaboration that went into bringing each project to life.”
The Bluff Bridge Replacement delivered a safer and more resilient crossing of the Orara River, replacing the flood-prone timber bridge that had served the community since 1954. The new bridge provides improved flood immunity and greater reliability for local communities and freight movements, while its innovative design will help reduce ongoing maintenance requirements and long-term costs. Despite construction taking place through multiple flood events, the project was completed safely, on time and under budget.
The Clarence Regional Aquatic Centre transformed the ageing Grafton Olympic Pool into a modern, accessible and sustainable aquatic facility for the Clarence Valley community. The centre includes indoor and outdoor pools, a 600-seat grandstand, an all-abilities splashpad, waterslides and accessible community facilities, supported by innovative sustainability measures including solar power, rainwater harvesting and advanced water filtration. Delivered below budget, the facility provides improved opportunities for recreation, competition and regional events.
The Rushforth Road Water Treatment Plant Reservoir Upgrade has strengthened the security and reliability of drinking water services for approximately 50,000 residents. The project replaced ageing infrastructure with a new chlorine contact tank and treated water reservoir, incorporating improved disinfection, monitoring and mixing systems to enhance water quality and reduce contamination risks. The upgrade will support the continued delivery of safe and reliable drinking water to the Clarence Valley community for years to come.
Together, the three projects represent significant investment in the future of the Clarence Valley, improving essential infrastructure, community facilities and services for residents now and into the future.
Council congratulates everyone involved in delivering the projects and acknowledges the valuable contribution of its funding partners, project teams, contractors and consultants.
The $835 million John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct was announced as the winner at a gala night on Wednesday, 16 September.
