The Fitzgibbon Chase project is recognised internationally as a new model for hybrid centralised/decentralised water supply systems. Bligh Tanner has created an innovative new water management model for the 114-hectare housing community in Brisbane that allows its water supply to grow as its population increases.

Fitzgibbon Chase features a non-potable stormwater harvesting system (FiSH) and potable roofwater harvesting system (PotaRoo). FiSH diverts, filters and disinfects urban stormwater runoff to supply non-potable water that is suitable for irrigation, toilet flushing, laundry and outdoor uses. PotaRoo harvests roofwater from approximately 500 homes in Fitzgibbon Chase, which is pumped to a central water treatment plant to produce water of potable quality. When operating, FiSH and PotaRoo are estimated to achieve a 60% savings on normal mains water use.

Both plants were successfully commissioned in 2013-14, but they have not been used for their intended purpose due to a range of factors including the relative abundance of water in South East Queensland and governance/ownership issues.

In 2020, Bligh Tanner was engaged by the asset owner to lead the recommissioning and 12-month operation of the FiSH and PotaRoo schemes, to demonstrate their value, and to assist with finding a long-term owner/operator for the schemes.