Mitchell, Murrundindi and Strathbogie shire councillors provided evidence at the public hearing of the 2022 Flood Inquiry on Thursday, September 14. The councillors spoke on the need for comprehensive flood management strategies and investment in vital infrastructure across the region. Some key points the councillors raised are outlined below.
Inconsistent warnings and predictions at irregular intervals
Seymour and its surroundings received unprecedented rainfall that exceeded modelling data. In addition, the influx from unmetered tributaries meant the town was caught off-guard.
Although warnings were issued based on available information, they could have been more reliable and timely, said the councillors.
Councillors asked for improvements in modelling and warnings, including using the standard emergency warning signal siren.
The lack of a Seymour-based Incident Control Centre (ICC)
Council highlighted that the District 12 CFA headquarters ICC was not used during the event, resulting in poor information flow to the council and the broader community.
Councillors said the ICC established in Shepparton focused on flooding that had yet to occur downstream of Seymour.
The Shepparton ICC’s limited remote connectivity made communication difficult, failing to get timely information and responses, adding to confusion, delays and anxiety.
A lack of housing support
Over 150 homes were inundated by floodwater, of which around 75 remain vacant.
Although Seymour was the first major town in Victoria impacted, Mitchell Shire was not included in the $16 million Housing Taskforce, established just days after the flood.
The Homes at Home program implemented in Rochester and Shepparton was not offered to Mitchell Shire until almost 12 months later.
Community members were forced to seek temporary accommodation away from their community and support networks, creating additional stress.
For future events, the council recommended a system for ensuring a place-based response to housing demand should be implemented.
Underinvestment in volunteer services
During the October Flood event, the two SES units in Mitchell Shire received more than 515 requests for assistance, far exceeding the capacity of local volunteer emergency services.
The council said this highlighted underfunding and that more support should be provided, including equipment and recruitment.
A lack of local services, including mental health and wellbeing
Flood impacts are exacerbated by the pre-existing challenges facing the Seymour community.
Despite Seymour’s position as a town that faces persistent social disadvantage, there was a lack of locally based services, particularly those for mental health and other wellbeing challenges.
The council said the community was complimentary and appreciative of the temporary Recovery Hub. However, urgent funding is needed to help council deliver infrastructure like the Seymour Community Wellbeing Hub.
A full transcript of the hearing will be made available to the public soon.