Rochester and district community members are invited to attend a series of information sessions as a comprehensive review of the Rochester Flood Study is launched.
Following the significant flooding events in 2011, 2022, and most recently in 2024, this updated study aims to reassess and enhance flood mitigation strategies to better protect the community.
The updated flood study will also consider the Lake Eppalock technical assessment and the potential benefits for Rochester and surrounding areas.
Campaspe Shire is partnering with City of Greater Bendigo, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, North Central Catchment Management Authority, Coliban Water, Goulburn-Murray Water and Victorian State Emergency Service to undertake the updated study.
Funding for the study was secured through a Victorian Government initiative to support councils to fast-track more flood studies so that communities are best prepared for future floods.
Infrastructure director Kate Lemon emphasised that community input was crucial to the process.
“We encourage all residents, business owners and stakeholders to participate in these sessions,’’ she said.
The community information sessions will provide an overview of the study's objectives, methodologies and desired outcomes.
Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, provide feedback, and discuss their knowledge and experiences of past flood events.
A Flood Study Reference Committee has also been established as a local level advisory committee to act as a sounding board supporting the flood study and development of the associated floodplain risk management plan.
The project manager and the appointed consultants will meet with the FSRC at key stages of the project.
“One of the roles of the FSRC is to provide a link to the community in relation to flood study,’’ Ms Lemon said.
“Your experiences, insights, and evidence are invaluable in shaping a resilient future for Rochester and surrounding districts.’’
Community information session will be held on Tuesday, July 16, at 10.30am to noon, 1pm to 4.30pm or 6pm to 8pm, and Wednesday, July 17, from 9.30am to noon or 1pm to 4pm at Rochester Flood Recovery Hub, 48 Mackay St, Rochester.
Interested parties can contact council on 1300 666 535 to book a time or drop in during any of the sessions.
Residents can stay up-to-date on the project via council’s website and the webpage, www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/rochesterfloodstudy has a subscribe option to receive notification of updates as they occur.