Frequently the Australian media carry stories of floods occurring without warning at any time of year, effecting small country towns and major cities alike. Floods can cost the community dearly in terms of soil damage, stock and crop losses, property damage and human life. Flow on costs can last for years.
In the Queensland Shire of Murweh, a study is currently being conducted by the Department of Emergency Services, Consultants Geo-Eng Australia and other State and Commonwealth bodies. It aims to provide a blueprint for improved flood risk management applicable to Councils across the country.
The Study compares the flooding which occurred in the Western Queensland towns of Charleville and Augathella in 1990 and 1997 and relies heavily on information provided by Murweh Shire Council.
Information gathered is vital for planning at a local level in order to mitigate the losses and reduce community costs. The Study aims to find ways to prevent the disastrous consequences of floods occurring in the first place.
“This research will help improve planning to limit the danger to the community and damage to property posed by flooding,” said Emergency Services Executive Director, Jack Noye. “This is expected to provide valuable guidelines for other Councils interested in examining mitigation strategies more closely.”
He said studies like this are needed to identify and classify the risks faced by communities. Traditional responses and recovery management methods and techniques will also be examined. Information arising from the Study, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year, will be made available to Councils across Australia. It includes feedback on the project’s methodology allowing Councils to adapt it to their own particular circumstances.
For further information contact Murweh’s Mayor Graham Andrews, telephone (076) 541 449.
