Science in the Pub: What’s in Our Water? Enterococci & Health
Description
Science in the Pub: What's in Our Water? Enterococci & Health
Wednesday 2 December 2026 | 6:30–8:00 pm
Madocke Beer Brewing Company, Ashmore | FREE ENTRY
The Gold Coast is renowned for its beautiful beaches, creeks, rivers and Broadwater. These waterways are fundamental to the region's environmental health, social wellbeing and economic prosperity. They support marine ecosystems, recreational activities, tourism, commercial fisheries and aquaculture industries.
How much do we truly understand about the quality of the water upon which we depend?
Recent water-quality monitoring across the southern Gold Coast and the Broadwater, together with significant sewage pollution incidents throughout South East Queensland, has raised important questions concerning public health, environmental protection, wastewater infrastructure and the broader consequences of waterway contamination.
What are enterococci bacteria, and why are they measured? What do elevated bacterial readings indicate about water quality and potential health risks? How might pollution affect marine ecosystems, seafood production, tourism and the livelihoods of those who depend upon healthy waterways?
Hooked on Water Inc. invites members of the public to an informative evening of scientific discussion, local research and community engagement, examining the condition of our waterways and the measures required to safeguard them.
Community Discussion and Questions
Are water-quality monitoring programmes adequately assessing our waterways, from upstream catchments to coastal environments? Are existing wastewater and stormwater systems sufficient to protect public health and aquatic ecosystems? How might pollution sources be more effectively identified, contamination prevented and communities provided with timely, reliable information?
The evening will conclude with an open audience question-and-answer session, providing an opportunity to engage directly with the speakers and discuss the scientific evidence, environmental concerns, public health implications and economic consequences of waterway pollution.
Art Meets Science
Local artist Mireille Pizzo will exhibit her artwork, contributing a creative perspective to an evening dedicated to environmental science, education and community discussion.
Featured Artist — Mireille Pizzo
Fine-Art Photographer | Mireille Art Gallery, Gold Coast
Hooked on Water is delighted to feature the work of internationally exhibited fine-art photographer Mireille Pizzo at Science in the Pub.
Originally from Romania, Mireille has made Australia her home and draws inspiration from the extraordinary beauty and diversity of the natural world. Her photography explores wildlife, landscapes, people and the intricate details of nature, encouraging audiences to see familiar environments from a fresh perspective.
Her work has been exhibited internationally, including in New York, and has received recognition through Australian photography competitions. Since establishing Mireille Art Gallery on the Gold Coast in 2018, she has continued to combine her artistic practice with a commitment to wildlife conservation, including support for Currumbin Wildlife Hospital.
Through her photography, Mireille reminds us of the beauty, fragility and interconnectedness of our natural environment.
Explore her work: https://mireilleartgallery.com/
Free Entry | All Welcome
Join us for an evening of informed discussion and public engagement, exploring the importance of protecting the waterways upon which our environment, economy and communities depend.
Photography and filming may take place during this event for educational, reporting and promotional purposes. Information about filming will be displayed at the venue. Attendees who prefer not to be photographed or filmed are encouraged to notify the organisers so that appropriate arrangements can be made
Lineup
Mr. Alex Kenins, Griffith University and TAFE Queensland - Water Quality Researcher
Alex is a PhD candidate at Griffith University and science educator across the university and TAFE sectors. With more than 10 years of experience in NATA-accredited water testing laboratories, Alex has held a range of senior technical and leadership roles, bringing extensive expertise in water quality science, laboratory operations, and applied research. He will provide an insight into enterococci bacteria, the interpretation of water-quality monitoring results and their potential implications for public health.
Harry Gordon — Surfrider Foundation Blue Water Taskforce Coordinator
Harry Gordon is an experienced environmental engineer with over 25 years of professional experience in environmental monitoring. Harry has extensive experience in the design, coordination, technical review and interpretation of environmental monitoring programmes, including groundwater, surface water, marine water quality, soil, air and noise monitoring. Harry has been working with the Gold Coast/Tweed branch of the Surfrider foundation for the past four years and has assisted the team in developing and undertaking the Blue Water Taskforce recreational water quality monitoring program. Harry will provide an overview of community water-quality monitoring through the Blue Water Task Force, including concerning results recorded across Gold Coast waterways, particularly along the southern coastline.
Sonya Underdahl — Chair, Hooked on Water Inc
An examination of Marine Stadium as a local water-quality management case study, significant sewage pollution incidents and the broader challenges associated with wastewater infrastructure, pollution prevention, environmental monitoring and public health notifications. Particular consideration will be given to the environmental, social and economic implications for commercial fisheries, aquaculture, tourism and coastal communities.
FAQs
- Is there a cost to attend?
No. Science in the Pub is a free community education event presented by Hooked on Water Inc.
Food and beverages are available for purchase separately.
- Where will the event be held?
Science in the Pub will be held at Madocke Beer Brewing Company, 286 Southport Nerang Road, Ashmore, Queensland 4214, on Wednesday 2 December 2026, from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm.
- What time does the event start?
Science in the Pub takes place on Wednesday, 2 December 2026, from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm.
Guests are encouraged to arrive from 6:00 pm to find a seat, purchase refreshments and meet other attendees before the presentations begin.
- Is parking available?
Yes. Free parking is available on-site at Madocke Beer Brewing Company and at neighbouring tenancies. Additional free street parking is available along Lau Place and Hinde Street.
- Do I need a science background to attend?
No scientific knowledge or previous experience is required. The evening is intended for members of the general public, including residents, recreational waterway users, environmental organisations and anyone interested in the health of our waterways. Presentations will be accessible to a general audience.
- Will there be an opportunity to ask questions?
Absolutely! A facilitated question-and-answer session is planned following the presentations, giving attendees the opportunity to engage with our speakers and discuss local water-quality concerns
- Will food and drinks be available to purchase?
Yes. Food and drinks will be available to purchase at the venue. There is no requirement to order food in advance.
The kitchen normally operates until 7:00 pm, although service may be extended depending on guest numbers and demand.
We recommend arriving early if you would like to enjoy a meal before the presentations begin.
- Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Science in the Pub will be held in the downstairs main taproom at Madocke Beer Brewing Company. The venue has confirmed that the event space is fully wheelchair accessible.
- Is the event suitable for children and families?
Yes. Madocke Beer Brewing Company is a family-friendly venue, and families are welcome to attend.
All minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
- Do I need to register?
We encourage attendees to register through Humanitix to help organisers plan seating and event arrangements.
- What will the evening involve?
Join Hooked on Water Inc. for an informative and engaging evening exploring enterococci, recreational water quality and the potential implications for public health.
The evening will feature presentations, community discussion and an opportunity to ask questions about water quality in our local waterways.
- Will the event be photographed or filmed?
Photography and filming may take place during this event for educational, reporting and promotional purposes.
Information about filming will be displayed at the venue.
Attendees who prefer not to be photographed or filmed are encouraged to notify the organisers so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
