Building water security in remote communities

Tropical North Queensland Drought Hub's Tony Matchett is the Agricultural Innovation and Commercialisation Program Lead. Tony is supporting water security initiatives across remote regions of Tropical North Queensland (TNQ) by connecting with organisations that develop atmospheric water generators. He is working to ensure that isolated communities have access to reliable water sources.

Atmospheric water generators are innovative machines that extract humidity from the air and convert it into water. Tony has been able to access several types of these generators; both solar and electric-powered, some of which are mounted on portable trailers for easy demonstration across the TNQ region. 

Tony said, “These generators offer adaptable solutions for water security. This can include creating additional water points for livestock to help with managing feed across a paddock which supports sustainable grazing practices. As well as being a source of water during emergencies, like we saw at the start of the year with Tropical Cyclone Jasper and other disaster-stricken areas.”

Recently, Tony showcased this technology at the Cooktown Discovery Festival, where a Sustainable Food and Water generator served as a hydration station. This event was a great opportunity to demonstrate the technology to a broad audience and spark conversations about the importance of water security.

Following the festival, a generator was set up at the Hope Vale Foundation, where the collaboration with Farmers2Founders to deliver TEKFARM trials occurred. These trials highlight how food and water security can be enhanced through agtech-enabled research, with support from companies like Rainstick, N-Drip, and the atmospheric water generator technology.

The journey continued as the generator was later featured at the Cairns Show, driving awareness and discussions around water security. It then moved onto Airlie Beach to further explore the opportunities for portable water generators.

Tony remains committed to working with various organisations to demonstrate the potential of this technology and its diverse applications in building resilience across our region. Water security is vital for the future of our communities, and many are excited to see these advancements in action.

For more information: contact tony.matchett@jcu.edu.au