Celebrating women in science and the water industry

As part of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Melbourne Water is proud to shine a light on the innovative contributions women continue to make across the water industry.

We are honoured to share some of their stories and showcase the achievements they continue to make in the day-to-day management of the water cycle we manage.

Amanda Gunawardena – Principal Engineer 

Amanda has worked on water projects in some of the fastest growing areas of Melbourne.

Her diverse role sees her working on wetland protection as well as waterway and retarding basin design, ensuring that wetlands for example meet strategic objections and environmental expectations.

Amanda said she enjoys the challenging nature and complexity of her role, sensitive to the importance of balancing the needs of the environment and development.

“My passion for water sensitive urban design drives me to always seek the best possible outcomes for the environment and our communities,” Amanda said.

“Having grown up in a developing country experiencing the social and environmental consequences of poor drainage for both the community and environment, I found an early passion for water sensitive urban design and the intersection of social and engineering challenges.”

Amanda also enjoys taking time to mentor and support her colleagues in the management of projects. 

“I am passionate about upskilling women in science and engineering. Within my day-to-day role, I enjoy being able to mentor and coach my team members and support them to improve their technical and leadership skills,” she said.

“Importantly, I also get to influence positive outcomes to protect the environment and community.”

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science resonates clearly with Amanda.

“It’s important that all of the voices and perspectives are included in addressing the challenges of the future. Encouraging women to engage with, participate in and develop careers in engineering and science is critical to achieving this outcome and will only serve to benefit our community.”

Wira Yan – Integrated Water Management Engineer 

Wira works on integrated water management projects in new growth areas, with a focus on unlocking the full potential of water to benefit the community and the environment.

Her role sees her working on projects to protect our precious waterways by preventing excess urban stormwater from impacting creeks through regional-scale stormwater harvesting, in turn creating alternative water sources to reduce supply shortfalls. These projects are both challenging and exciting as they are relatively new.

Wira’s passion for her role at Melbourne Water stems from her longstanding interest in working in a field that contributes to environmental protection.

“I have always been drawn towards the beauty of the natural environment and the biodiversity it supports,” Wira said.

“As a result, I've always wanted to work in environmental protection, so I decided to do a double degree in environmental engineering and science. 

“My favourite course was on integrated water management because I was excited by the complexity and the potential of it all, and I recognised how important it was because water supports all life. That's why I decided to go into the water industry.”

Wira says she is fortunate to work at Melbourne Water with so many people passionate about the projects they are involved in and striving to create a better world for all.

Wira strongly encourages women to consider a career in science.

“There's a lot of different fields you can go into. Science is for those who love to be curious.”

Media contact:
0419 090 458