Project Leaders: Dr. Belinda Ferrari (Macquarie) and Dr. Simon Reid(Murdoch)

Project Advisors: Prof. Peter Bergquist (Macquarie) and Prof. Goen Ho(Murdoch)

Researchers: Dr. Anwar Sunna, Dr. Niina Tujula (Macquarie); Dr. Lucy Skillman, Dr. Simon Reid, Dr. Will Ditcham (Murdoch)

PhD Students: Mr. Quach Truong, Ms. Anitha Alagappan, Mr. Jamal al Tebrineh, Ms Iris Huelshoff, Ms Raliza Alexova (Macquarie); Mr. Michael Banazis, Mr. Rob Steuart (Murdoch)

Linkages: Macquarie University; University of Queensland, Murdoch University, Meat and Livestock Australia, Ecowise Environmental

The project will develop a simple, rapid (less than six hours) system to detect microbial pathogens in the environment wihin regulated specifications. The prototype system will be able to detect e.coli in water in the first instance followed by Cyanobacterial toxins and Legionella.

The aim is to produce a cost effective test that can provide a qualitative output for non-trained workers in the field. In the first instance the technology will detect multiple target micro-organisms from large volumes of recreational, drinking and industrial water. Future applications will allow access to other markets such as the food industry.

Researchers: Dr. Belinda Ferrari, Dr. Anwar Sunna (Macquarie)

This innovative project will develop a novel approach to managing odours which is a problem faced by many industries including agricultural as well as waste and wastewater indutries.

The project aims to use enzyme systems or cells which will degrade the specific odour molecules of concern using advanced techniques for both absorption and degradation. The reserach will benefit EBCRC core participants and the technology has the potential to be broady applicable to many industries.