Smarter wastewater treatment innovation
An innovative odour control solution is being rolled out by a Sunshine Coast business to tackle one of the most unpleasant challenges in wastewater treatment – odour control!
Through a new partnership, Sunshine Coast wastewater innovator Calix and the region’s water and sewerage treatment provider Unitywater are rolling out a magnesium hydroxide liquid (MHL) dosing program at 55 of Unitywater’s pump stations across Moreton Bay, the Sunshine Coast and Noosa.
MHL is an everyday mineral that is making a big impact. Best known as an ingredient in over-the-counter antacids, this safe and sustainable solution neutralises hydrogen sulphide gas, the source of that dreadful “rotten egg” smell, while also preventing pipe blockages and corrosion. This application enhances liveability for local communities while showcasing the Sunshine Coast as a destination for smart businesses delivering sustainable infrastructure investment.
Local supply, lower emissions
To support the rollout of the odour control solution, Calix has recently opened a new facility in Caloundra West to supply MHL locally for Unitywater’s network.
The rollout involves installing MHL dosing systems at the wastewater pump stations, sites that temporarily store and then pump sewage and wastewater onward to treatment plants, as part of its journey through the extensive sewerage network.
By dosing MHL at each of these pump stations, hydrogen sulphide odour is controlled before it can impact local communities.
The new Caloundra West facility ensures MHL can be delivered efficiently and locally, reducing the need for long-haul trucking and improving operational efficiencies for Unitywater.
In addition, Calix has created a system that is integrated with Unitywater’s Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) technical platform, used to remotely monitor and control water and sewerage infrastructure.
This means tank levels at each pump station can be tracked in real time and refills are despatched only as necessary, minimising truck movements and further cutting emissions.
This combination of tech automation, local supply and integration with Unitywater’s monitoring system demonstrates how partnerships between forward-thinking businesses can deliver both sustainability benefits and operational efficiencies across the region.
Part of a bigger vision and backed by Council
Calix is an Australian environmental technology company and global innovator specialising in advanced solutions for wastewater treatment, carbon capture and industrial decarbonisation. They use patented mineral processing technology that supports sustainability and operational efficiency for industries and communities.
Calix chose to expand to the Sunshine Coast due to its rapidly growing smart city infrastructure, which presents significant demand for innovative water and wastewater solutions.
Sunshine Coast Council’s Investment Attraction Team were instrumental in welcoming Calix to the region, providing site search assistance and development support, as well as regulatory and approvals guidance.
The new Caloundra facility might be one of several Calix sites across Australia but its operations are delivering real local benefits. For Sunshine Coast residents, it means fewer odours, more reliable wastewater treatment services and longer-lasting infrastructure. For the Sunshine Coast region, the establishment of Calix as a local business means new investment, new jobs and a strengthening of the region’s reputation as a hub for smart and sustainable solutions.
According to Sunshine Coast Council, the project not only addresses a community infrastructure need but also delivers tangible economic returns.
Council’s economic modelling indicates the project will generate an economic impact of $7.14 million, supporting 23 jobs across the waste collection, treatment and disposal services sector.
Delivering for the region
For Calix, the new Caloundra facility is part of a broader growth story, adding to a global operational network spanning Australia, Europe, Asia and the United States.
“Our partnership with Unitywater demonstrates how Australian innovation, local service delivery and local government support can deliver both environmental and economic benefits,” said Greg Holmes, Calix General Manager, Magnesia.
The Sunshine Coast now has another globally connected company turning innovation into commercial, sustainable outcomes, reinforcing the region’s position as one of Australia’s most future-focused investment destinations.
Why it matters for investors
The Calix and Unitywater partnership highlights why the Sunshine Coast is attracting innovative businesses from around the world.
- Access to a fast-growing $26.33 billion economy
- Supportive local government with tailored investment programs
- A master-planned infrastructure pipeline worth $19.5 billion
- A lifestyle and location that help attract and retain top talent
For forward-thinking companies seeking a business destination where innovation and sustainability drive growth, the Sunshine Coast offers a unique advantage.
Interested in joining the region’s ideas, innovation and investment opportunities? Contact the Invest Sunshine Coast team to discover opportunities for your business.
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