Civiq’s innovative water stations have given Rosebank College’s environmental student leaders an opportunity to challenge traditional approaches to school water consumption.
In the heart of Sydney’s inner west, Rosebank College is rewriting the narrative of environmental responsibility, one water bottle at a time.
The school’s journey began with a clear vision: eliminate single-use plastics and inspire a generation of eco-conscious students.
“We want all students and staff using reusable water bottles, thus reducing single-use plastic within our community,” explains the school’s Principal Ms Iris Nastasi.
The transformation started with a critical assessment of the school’s existing infrastructure.
“We had a look at our current bubblers and knew we needed to improve the function and aesthetics of our current system to achieve our goal,” Ms Nastasi says.
The school reached out to Civiq, a Sydney-based manufacturer of Australian-made drinking water fountains and refill stations for schools and local councils, for a solution.
“When it comes to bubbler options for schools, we think Civiq leads the way in terms of design and flexible solutions. Other suppliers did not have the solution that works for Rosebank,” she says.
The family-owned company originally designed wayfinding signage until a council on Sydney’s Northern Beaches enquired about adding a tap to its wayfinding signage, simultaneously providing directions while reducing plastic waste in public spaces.
The request sparked the first Civiq-designed water station – the Aquafil FlexiFountain – which has now evolved to an extensive range of products.
“After seeing the success of drinking water stations in parks, schools wanted to install highly visible bottle refill stations on their campuses,” the company said.
Its range of robust, low-maintenance hydration solutions designed specifically for schools are also helping to foster student ownership as schools can personalise their drinking station with artwork.
Rosebank College turned to its Year 12 environmental leaders to take ownership of its new water stations.
“These students selected the designs and introduced the newly installed bubblers to the college community at a whole school assembly, challenging every student to bring their own reusable water bottle to school.”
The impact was immediate and profound, indelibly changing the school water culture. Single-use water bottles disappeared from the cafeteria and school events. The message was clear: sustainability isn’t just a policy, it’s a collective commitment.
A recent Open Day demonstrated the school’s new approach.
“All students and staff brought their own reusable water bottle, rather than the college providing them each with a single-use bottle of water,” Ms Nastasi says.
The Civiq water stations have become more than infrastructure at Rosebank College – they are not only reducing plastic waste, they are cultivating a culture of environmental responsibility.
“They have changed the way we provide water to our school community,” Ms Nastasi says.
To enquire about Civiq’s range of indoor and outdoor drinking water stations designed for schools, visit civiq.com.au, email sales@civiq.com.au or call 1300 600 300.
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