The Coleraine community will be better prepared for flooding thanks to a $170,000 funding boost from the Andrews Government to help complete a detailed flood study.
The study will use local knowledge and data collected by the Coleraine community to update flood maps, and other flood emergency planning and education material. The community’s recommendations for upgrading flood warning services for the area and constructing flood mitigation works will also be assessed.
According to local residents, the magnitude of flooding Coleraine experienced in September last year was the worst since a major flood event in March 1946.
The event saw homes, businesses and most of the town’s sports facilities and roads left damaged by flood water.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney said the Andrews Government was chipping in to support the Southern Grampians Shire Council prepare the flood study, who were also contributing $30,000.
Southern Grampians Shire Council will manage the flood study, with the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority providing technical advice and input.
The Victorian Floodplain Management Strategy acknowledges that flood damages and trauma can be reduced by using credible data about flood behaviour, such as flood heights, flood extents and flood probabilities.
Detailed risk evaluations, in the form of flood studies, fill gaps in knowledge and help communities consider flood management options.
The Victorian Government’s contribution is from the 2016 – 2017 Victorian Budget commitment to provide $25 million funding to support implementation of the Victorian Floodplain Management Strategy.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“We understand that flood damages and trauma can be reduced when reliable data about flood heights and extents is readily available.”
“It’s clear the local community will play a critical role in shaping this study, with their knowledge and lived experience of flooding in the region a valuable asset to tap into.”
“We’re working with the Southern Grampians Shire and the community to deliver this study to ensure the township of Coleraine is better protected from flood events.”