Written by Stephen Maxwell (Ramboll Australia) (SuRF ANZ Chair)
What has been the highlight of your Branch/SIG this year?
The Sustainable Remediation Forum (SuRF) ANZ has witnessed a meaningful shift in the uptake of sustainable remediation principles. Of particular note is the integration of sustainability requirements into local government regulations, exemplified by Sutherland Shire Council’s amendments to their Development Control Plan (DCP) for contaminated land. This initiative sets a precedent for other councils to follow, ensuring that sustainability is a core consideration in remediation projects.
SuRF ANZ has also observed large corporate entities leading industry application of sustainable remediation. We’ve seen this through increased requests for our advocacy, through the staffing restructures and through the delivery of sustainable remediation projects.
SuRF ANZ has continued over the past 12 months to foster international collaboration through regular communication particularly with our counterparts in the US and UK.
What are you most excited about in the new financial year (1 July 2025 – 30 June 2026)
SuRF ANZ is excited to welcome new members, to continuing its advocacy for sustainable remediation across our region and to maintaining a conduit to international colleagues who share our drive to realise sustainable change.
We look forward to fresh perspectives in our SIG and to expanding industry engagement. The year gone has been positive and we look forward to building on that in the year ahead.
Stephen Maxwell
Ramboll Australia
SuRF ANZ Chair