Flood mitigation in Rochester was discussed at Campapse Shire Council’s March meeting.
The council took the opportunity to launch the review of the Rochester Flood Study and Mitigation Plan.
The project, funded with $895,000 from the Department of Energy Environment and Climate Action, aims to update and extend 2013 flood modelling to better understand and mitigate flood risks.
It will include modelling the Campaspe River and breakout flows downstream of Lake Eppalock to the Murray River and assessing existing and proposed mitigation works.
The study will also incorporate findings from the Victorian Government’s Lake Eppalock Technical Assessment Report to explore additional protective measures for Rochester.
Campaspe Shire Mayor Rob Amos said the community would be glad to hear this step has been taken.
“This project represents a significant step forward in enhancing Rochester’s resilience to future flood events,” he said.
“We will be undertaking significant community and stakeholder engagement, both internal and external and this will play a crucial role in shaping the study’s outcomes.
“Community input will be sought through various channels, ensuring that local knowledge and concerns are thoroughly considered.”
During the meeting, Rochester Ward Councillor Paul Jarman said this was the path towards mitigation.
“This is another cornerstone document for the Rochester community to start moving forward,” he said.
“This flood study is now a key part, in correlation with the Lake Eppolock study, for us to work forward for that magic word called mitigation.
“This data is crucial for us to have mitigation discussions in the future.”
This includes establishing a Project Control Group made up of stakeholders such as the North Central Catchment Management Authority, Victorian SES, and Goulburn Murray Water.
A Flood Study Reference Committee will also be created to provide local input and guidance throughout the study process.
“The Flood Study Reference Committee will act as a sounding board to ensure all important aspects of the study are considered,” Cr Amos said.
“It will provide a focus for discussion of technical, social, cultural, economic and environmental issues and a link to the community in relation to flood risk and management issues.
Expressions of Interest will shortly open to establish the Flood Study Reference Committee.
“We encourage involvement by community representatives including representatives from commerce and industry, flood affected landowners, community organisations and anyone else with relevant local knowledge,” Cr Amos said.