05 Dec 2024
The Water Guardians: protecting our precious resource for future generations
TasWater is enlisting the help of native Tasmanian animal characters to engage and educate Tasmanians on the importance of protecting and conserving our precious Tasmanian water.
Today, the water utility unveiled six Water Guardians - Winnie the wombat, Laurel the platypus, Jasper the eastern quoll, Dan the caddisfly larva, Flynn the wedge-tailed eagle, and Paddy the pademelon – who will help to inspire the next generation of water guardians.
The new water literacy program is designed to engage primary school children by introducing them to some of Tasmania’s native animals, each of which relies on a secure water supply.
TasWater General Manager of Customer and Community Matt Balfe said the release of The Water Guardians will include three children’s storybooks, covering everything from drinking water for health, to the importance of looking after our sewers.
“Our new Water Guardians program has been developed in collaboration with education specialists Kimberlin Education to enhance Tasmanians' understanding of our precious water from sky, to tap, to sea,” Mr Balfe said.
“The launch of our curriculum aligned Water Guardians program signifies a step change in our approach to water literacy by starting with our children. We hope our Water Guardians can inspire the next generation to take the lead in looking after our waterways, starting today.”
‘’There’s a common misconception in Tasmania that conserving water isn’t necessary. Research shows that there is a disconnect for people between the water coming from their taps, and the Tassie environment that we love so much.
“When asked what comes to mind when they think of water in the environment, people generally say ‘beautiful, must be protected.’ When asked the same about tap water, people tend to think ‘plumbing’.
“While some parts of Tasmania do have relatively high rainfall, factors like climate change and population growth mean we need to conserve and manage our water resources more carefully.”
The storybooks contain some recognisable Tasmanian scenes, as well as a few other relatable Tasmanian characteristics to look out for.
The characters have all been designed by Tasmanian artist Rachel Tribout, known for such titles as The Monsters of Tasmania, and Hold On! Saving the Spotted Handfish.
Illustrator Rachel Tribout said working with TasWater and Kimberlin Education had been a rewarding experience.
‘’Not only have I gained valuable insights into water literacy, but I’ve also had the pleasure of working in new and exciting ways with the knowledgeable and skilled team at Kimberlin,’’ Ms Tribout said.
‘’Caring for Tasmania's beautiful environment is a cause close to my heart, so contributing to this meaningful initiative is an honour. I’ve always loved illustrating Tasmania's stunning landscapes and unique wildlife, and I am grateful to be combining my passion for this place with my creative work.‘’
Mr Balfe said around three percent of the world’s water is freshwater, and even less is drinkable.
“Increasing water literacy within the community helps residents make informed decisions about water conservation and how their water use impacts the environment,” he said.
“Water literacy goes beyond understanding the water cycle — it includes the ability to make informed decisions about water use, conservation, environmental health, and sustainability.
“Each of us has a role to play in ensuring that our water systems thrive now and into the future.”
Mr Balfe said that all schools in Tasmania would have access to TasWater’s online water literacy resources by Term Two, 2025, which will include TasWater’s Water Guardians children’s books.