Chapter Newsletters

IECA Australasia Chapter Newsletter - Issue #2 - 2026

  
Australasia Newsletter headerIssue #2 2026

IECA AUSTRALASIA PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

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The Australasian IECA Chapter has continued to grow in strength throughout 2026, driven by the commitment of our members, volunteers, directors, sponsors, government partners, and supporters. Growth in membership, training programs, and RSP-ESC accreditation demonstrates the value our industry places on professionalism, education, and continuous improvement.

A key focus this year has been the advancement of sustainable erosion and sediment control (ESC). Across Australia and New Zealand, we are seeing greater adoption of practices, technologies, and products that not only achieve compliance but deliver lasting environmental outcomes. Innovation continues to play a critical role in this journey, with industry leaders developing smarter approaches to site management, rehabilitation, stormwater treatment, and environmental protection. It is particularly encouraging to see Australian and New Zealand-made products leading the way, providing locally designed solutions that address the unique challenges of our landscapes and climate.

Industry events remain one of the most important ways we share knowledge, strengthen professional relationships, and showcase innovation. Conferences, field days, and training events provide opportunities for regulators, consultants, contractors, suppliers, researchers, and asset owners to learn from one another and collectively improve industry outcomes. These events are where our community thrive and where ideas become solutions, partnerships are formed, and best practice continues to evolve.

We are particularly excited for the upcoming IECA Australasia Conference in Sydney. I encourage everyone across our industry to get involved, attend, present, sponsor, and participate. The future of sustainable ESC depends on active industry engagement, and these conferences provide a unique opportunity for all sectors to contribute to the conversations shaping policy, innovation, education, and environmental stewardship across our region.

Thank you for your continued support, passion, and commitment to our industry. I look forward to seeing many of you in Sydney as we continue to build a stronger and more sustainable future together.

Kind regards
Dallas Frazier
President
IECA Australasia

NZ update - by Chris Wilcox

Welcome El Nino!

We've had some significant differences in weather for the two motu, with majority of the north island getting a little reprieve from the rain with some nice periods of blue sky, while the south island unfortunately bears the brunt of some gnarly lows. El Nino has officially been declared and this El Nino is expected to intensify over the coming months into one of the strongest on record.

In the previous IECA Australasia newsletter I took the opportunity to highlight a passion project, a brain child of ESC extraordinaire Hannah Giess (who a lot of people will know from her fantastic and energetic conference presentations) and several other respected members of this community, the Mud Matters newsletter. Mud Matters issue #2 recently released and in it you can find some fascinating articles focussing on ESC from the SOHO basin (an earthworks project at the Cadrona Alpine Resort), ESC tips and tricks, and a thought provoking opinion piece from an underwater photographer whose work is heavily impacted by the sediment we seek to limit discharging. If any of the above sounds like a little bit of you, use the QR code below to sign up. 

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There is a lot happening in NZ ESC-wise for the rest of the year which is exciting! Some of the events coming up (stay up to date on the IECA website).

  • Civil Contractors Conference - Wellington - 12-14 August
  • Northland Earthworks Field Day - Whangarei - 16 September
  • IECA Australasia Conference - Sydney - 21-23 October

I'm looking forward to catch up with people at all of the above events so if you see me there come and say hello.

Chris

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Mud Matters ESC Newsletter Registration: 

Mud Matters ESC Newsletter Second edition: 

Conference KEYNOTE: People Like Us Do Things Like This - Barry Fagan

This keynote is about the people who make dents — the troublemakers, truth-tellers, and quiet disruptors who shape how our profession actually works, often without ever knowing the scale of their influence. Drawing on stories from a career spent in stormwater management and erosion control this session explores what it takes to be the person who speaks up, takes the risk, and holds the line on principle when it would be easier not to. It's about friendship as the backbone of a profession that asks a lot of the people in it, and about the colleagues, mentors, and even strangers met once at a conference who leave a mark that outlasts the moment. Expect humor, a few hard truths, and an honest look at why this work — and the people who do it — matters more than the job description suggests.

About the speaker:

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Barry Fagan, PE/PLS, ENV SP, CPMSM, CPESC

Owner/Vice President | Fagan Consulting LLC

Barry Fagan works at the intersection of built and natural environments, helping others get better at managing stormwater using his hard-earned experience, expertise, and trusted voice. For more than 30 years, Barry has studied how stormwater is managed at the project, program, community, and national levels. He views “the way we’ve always done it” as one of the greatest barriers to achieving our common water quality goals. Barry leads others to think differently, talk differently, and act differently - to develop and communicate innovative approaches that not only meet regulatory requirements but also deliver economic, social, and environmental value.

Conference Day 2 KEYNOTE - Bridging Perspectives: How to Get Them to See What You See

Why do some people immediately understand the importance of erosion and sediment control while others see the world through a completely different lens? In this thought-provoking and highly engaging keynote, you'll be taken on a fascinating journey that begins with a familiar scene of erosion and earthworks before exploring the surprising ways our minds shape what we see, hear, and believe. Discover how perception, language, framing, trust, and persuasion influence every conversation we have—whether in the field, the boardroom, or with clients and stakeholders. Packed with practical insights and real-world examples, this session will equip you with powerful tools to communicate more effectively, build trust, and inspire action. You'll leave with a fresh perspective on how to bridge divides, gain buy-in and help others see the value of what matters most. This is a keynote you won't want to miss.

About the speaker:

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Ned Stephenson, BSc MSc MBA MBusPsych

Principal | Behavioural Blueprint

Ned Stephenson is the founder of Behavioural Blueprint, a leadership consultancy that brings applied psychology to the workplace. For the thirty years prior to starting Behavioural Blueprint in 2025, Ned worked in a variety of fields, from mineral exploration in the Northern Territory, agriculture and catchment management in Western Australia, land use remote sensing across various states, and colliery environmental management in NSW and Qld. He has postgraduate qualifications in earth science, business administration, and workplace psychology.

Join Us in Sydney for the 2026 IECA Australasia Conference & Expo.

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"From Catchment to Coast, Erosioneers Unite for a Sustainable Future"

The countdown is on for the 2026 IECA Australasia Conference & Expo, taking place from 21-23 October 2026 at the iconic Shangri-La Sydney in The Rocks. This premier industry event will bring together professionals from across Australasia who are committed to protecting and restoring our soil and water resources.

Under the theme "From Catchment to Coast, Erosioneers Unite for a Sustainable Future," the conference will provide an unparalleled opportunity to connect with scientists, engineers, consultants, contractors, academics, suppliers, regulators, and practitioners who are shaping the future of erosion and sediment control. 

This year's program is designed to inspire, educate, and connect. Attendees will gain valuable insights from industry-leading speakers, explore emerging research and innovations, learn from practical case studies, and discover new approaches to effective land and water management. The conference will also feature a dedicated exhibition hall, networking events, technical sessions, field day opportunities, and professional development activities designed to strengthen industry capability and foster meaningful connections.

Whether you are looking to expand your technical knowledge, build your professional network, discover innovative products and services, or contribute to advancing best practice across the industry, the IECA Australasia Conference & Expo is an event not to be missed.

Why Attend?

  • Learn from leading experts and practitioners.
  • Explore the latest industry research, technology, and innovations.
  • Connect with colleagues and decision-makers from across Australasia.
  • Participate in networking events, including the conference dinner and social activities.
  • Earn valuable professional development opportunities.
  • Gain practical insights you can immediately apply in your projects and workplace. [Home | 202...nce & Expo]

Register Today

With strong interest already building, now is the time to secure your place and be part of the region's premier erosion and sediment control event.

👉 Register now and join your peers in Sydney from 21-23 October 2026.

Conference Website: 2026 IECA Australasia Conference & Expo 

We look forward to welcoming you to Sydney as we come together to share knowledge, strengthen our profession, and help shape a more sustainable future for our landscapes and waterways. 

Understanding the RSP-ESC Application Review Process

The Registered Soil Practitioner – Erosion and Sediment Control (RSP-ESC) certification represents a significant step forward for the erosion and sediment control profession. Jointly managed by IECA Australasia and Soil Science Australia, the program has been established to recognise practitioners who can demonstrate the knowledge, skills and experience required to deliver high-quality erosion and sediment control outcomes.

Since the program launched in late 2024, industry interest has been strong. While this level of engagement is encouraging, it has reinforced the importance of maintaining a robust and defensible assessment process. As one of Australasia's newest professional certification programs, the RSP-ESC framework continues to evolve, with ongoing refinements aimed at ensuring consistency, fairness and quality in every application review.

A Thorough Review Process

Applications are assessed by a Certification Review Committee comprising dedicated industry volunteers. The review process is comprehensive and intentionally rigorous, requiring detailed examination of an applicant's qualifications, professional experience, project examples and supporting documentation against the RSP-ESC certification standards.

Maintaining this level of scrutiny is essential to preserving the integrity and credibility of the certification. Every application is assessed on the evidence provided, ensuring certification decisions are based on demonstrated competency and experience rather than assumptions.

Common Reasons for Delays

While the  Certification Review Committee is committed to progressing applications as efficiently as possible, delays can occur when additional information or clarification is required.

A common issue identified during application reviews is that evidence demonstrating achievement of the individual RSP-ESC Standards is not always clearly presented. Applicants are responsible for carefully reviewing the certification standards, understanding the requirements, and providing all necessary supporting documentation.

Common causes of delays include:

  • Missing supporting reports or project documentation.
  • Incomplete application information.
  • Documentation submitted for projects where the applicant was not the primary author without sufficient explanation of their role and contribution.
  • Insufficient evidence demonstrating how the applicant meets specific certification standards.
  • Multiple requests for clarification of application information during the review process.


When additional information is required, the Certification Review Committee must follow up with applicants before an assessment can be completed. While this extends the review timeframe, it ensures all applications are assessed fairly, consistently and against the same standards.

Using the Application Evidence Form

To assist applicants and streamline the assessment process, an Evidence Form has been developed. The form enables applicants to clearly cross-reference their supporting documentation against the relevant RSP-ESC Standards, making it easier for reviewers to verify that the required evidence has been provided.

Applicants must complete and submit the Evidence Form with their application. The form has been designed to:

  • Help applicants demonstrate how they meet each certification standard.
  • Ensure supporting documentation is clearly linked to the relevant criteria.
  • Reduce requests for additional information and clarification.
  • Improve assessment efficiency and minimise review delays.

The Evidence Form is available through the Registered Soil Practitioner – Erosion and Sediment Control Accreditation page on the Soil Science Australia website.

Protecting the Value of Certification

A key objective of the RSP-ESC program is to ensure certification remains meaningful, respected and trusted across the industry. Achieving this requires a review process that is thorough, transparent and evidence-based.

While applicants may be eager to receive an outcome, maintaining high assessment standards protects the value of the certification for all practitioners. By continuing to apply robust review processes, the program helps ensure that certified practitioners have demonstrated the qualifications, experience and competency expected by employers, clients, regulators and industry peers.

We appreciate the patience and understanding of applicants as the program continues to evolve. The time invested in a careful assessment process today will help ensure that the RSP-ESC designation remains a trusted benchmark of professional excellence in erosion and sediment control for years to come.

Upcoming Events

We have an exciting year ahead with a number of great events planned, see below and make sure you visit our events page to get the latest information and updates.
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Event Date Location
Soil Management Training May - Nov various More information - Register

Rethinking Rubbish: Innovation on the Frontlines of Pollution - WEBINAR

 5 Aug eHub More information - Register

Coomera River foreshore stabilisation project - Workshop & Field Day

 26 Aug Qld More information - Register

Living with erosion: new approaches to managing erosion of rivers and coasts - WEBINAR

 1 September eHub More Information - Register
FREE Earthworks Field Day - Northland, NZ 16 September Northland, NZ More information - Register

ESC Demonstrations and Discussion, Redlands, Qld. | 7th October

 7 October Qld More information - Register
ESC Workshop and Field Day | WA September WA Save the date
ESC Workshop and Field Day | Tasmania TBA Tas
2026 IECA AUSTRALASIA CONFERENCE & EXPO 21 - 23 Oct Sydney, NSW More information

Dispersive Soils: Processes, Impact, and Management (Rengasamy and Tavakkoli, 2026) - reviewed by A. Macleod

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Most erosion control professionals appreciate the challenges presented by dispersive soils. However, many practitioners don’t fully understand the detailed science behind why some soils are dispersive, and how soil properties can, and should, inform decision-making regarding erosion control. Dispersive Soils (Rengasamy and Tavakkoli, 2026) is a new text that is available now. It aims to redefine the general understanding of soil stability and dispersion, beyond the typical emphasis on sodicity.

On the inside front cover, the authors Dr Pichu Rengasamy and Dr Ehsan Tavakkoli have dedicated the book to Dr W.W. Emerson, who lent his surname to the ubiquitous laboratory test that many of us use to determine soil dispersion. It is a fitting tribute and provides an insight into the direction of this new book. The book has a distinct focus on what dispersive soils are, how they form, their chemical and physical properties, and their identification – the gritty, nerdy, sciencey stuff! If you want to gain a better scientific understanding of dispersive soil formation, chemistry and stability, or you want to impress the lawyers as an expert witness in Court, you’ve found your next bedtime read. 

For most erosion control professionals, it’s the practical management of dispersive soils that would be the most relevant. And while this book does include discussion regarding management options for dispersive soils, it’s a little light-on. Plus, the focus is mainly on agricultural lands and management techniques for urban construction are not specifically covered.

If you’re looking for definitive gypsum application rates, sediment basin flocculant requirements, or similar prescriptive management tools, this is not the reference you might be hoping for.

However, an academic understanding of dispersive soils is important for erosion control practitioners, and this book delivers on that front. With a focus on understanding the properties and processes of dispersive soils, practitioners can better develop and implement their own management techniques. 

Dispersive Soils: Processes, Impact, and Management (Rengasamy and Tavakkoli, 2026) is available from CSIRO Publishing.

Step Up and Help Shape the Future of IECA Australasia

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Nominations are now open for the IECA Australasia Board of Directors, with three positions available for a three-year term commencing at the AGM in October.

If you're passionate about erosion and sediment control and want to make a meaningful contribution to the industry, this is your opportunity to get involved. As a Director, you'll help guide the strategic direction of the Association, represent members, support key initiatives such as the RSP-ESC certification program, and contribute to the continued growth of IECA across Australia and New Zealand.

Board service is a rewarding volunteer opportunity that requires approximately one hour per week on average, plus participation in online meetings and the annual conference.

Nominations Close 28 August 2026

We encourage members from all sectors of the industry to apply and bring their skills, experience, and ideas to the Board.

Ready to make a difference? Submit your nomination today and help shape the future of our profession.

For more information about the nomination process or the role of a Director, contact Sandra at sandra@ieca.org or 02 4977 0901.

IECA Aust Committees

Did you know that IECA Australasia is led by a dedicated team of volunteers, supported by just one paid staff member? Our active committees play a vital role in delivering education, recognition, accreditation, advocacy, and much more for the erosion control community across Australia and New Zealand.

Below is a list of our current active committees and the important work they undertake. If you’d like to be involved in this incredible community or to learn more, please contact the IECA Australasia office:

E: admin@austieca.com.au  P: +61 2 4677 0901

  • Board (elected by the membership)
  • Awards
  • Conference
    • Sponsorship & Expo sub-committee
  • Events/Education
  • Newsletter
  • Young Professionals (35yrs and under)
  • Certification Liaison
  • Sustainability Innovation
  • Women in ERSED
  • Hydromulch (by invitation)

Apply for the 2026 IECA Australasia - Vital Young Professional Scholarship

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The IECA Australasia - Vital Young Professional Scholarship is now open for applications, offering one young professional or student from Australia or New Zealand the opportunity to attend both the 2026 and 2027 IECA Australasia Conferences at no cost. 

The scholarship package includes conference registration, accommodation, networking events, field tour participation, travel assistance, and IECA membership benefits. The successful recipient will also have the opportunity to share their conference experience through the IECA newsletter, present at the 2027 Conference, and gain valuable exposure to industry leaders and peers. 

Apply Now

Applications close at 5:00 pm on Friday, 28 August 2026, with the successful applicant notified by 14 September 2026. 

If you're an emerging professional looking to grow your network, expand your knowledge, and accelerate your career in erosion and sediment control, don't miss this opportunity. Apply today or encourage a deserving young professional to apply. 

Not a member? Join here

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    		 We invite you to discover how membership of the International Erosion Control Association (IECA) can further your professional career. IECA membership will connect you to a diverse group of individuals from 30 countries who share your concerns and professional challenges. IECA also connects you with local events and information, conferences and field days, networking, education, publications, members-only website, cost savings and more.

    CLICK HERE to see benefits included and pricing.

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    Disclaimer

    Statements made in the IECA Australasia Newsletter do not necessarily represent the views of IECA Australasia. IECA Australasia cannot accept responsibility for the accuracy of any information supplied or for any loss or damage which may arise from errors or omissions.

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