Published on 01 September 2020
Thanks to the Resilient Rochester project, local residents now have more tools to help them better prepare and carry out flood plans.
Campaspe Shire General Manager Community, Mr Keith Oberin, said the essential tools provided will assist residents in better understanding flood risk.
“The tools will support residents in planning for future flood events as well as provide an understanding of the necessary steps to take to stay safe and reduce undue stress in emergency situations,” Mr Oberin said.
Tools include improvements to the Rochester Flood Management Plan, and enhancements to warning and messaging systems that emergency services agencies use.
Rochester SES Unit Controller Judith Gledhill said when there is a flood warning, you have anywhere between six and 24 hours to activate your plan before the flood water arrives.
“It’s no different to having a fire plan. You need to think about where your family will go, what you will take and how you will manage your pets and animals,” Ms Gledhill said.
Should a flood warning be issued, sandbag collection points will be set up by the SES. The location of the collection point will depend on where the flood is coming from and how quickly it might be impacted.
Sandbag collection locations will be announced over official warning channels such as the VicEmergency app and emergency radio broadcasters such as ABC radio.
“Not all properties can be protected with sandbags. Weatherboard houses are a good example of this as there would only be enough sandbags to protect external doorways, and water may come up through the floorboards,” Ms Gledhill said.
“If you live in a weatherboard house, your time and effort may be better spent lifting furniture and valuables off the floor before going to a family or friend’s house outside the flood area,” She added.
An emergency relief centre may also be opened, located away from the flood zone. The location of any relief centre will also be relayed on the VicEmergency app and ABC radio.
All properties in Rochester have now received a location specific information pack containing details on how to prepare a flood plan.
Long-time Rochester resident Bob Knight has seen his share of floods in the 79 years he has lived in the town. Although his own home wasn’t affected by the 2011 flood, he helped prepare the bowling club by laying sandbags, along with other community members. Bob also helped the Lions Club with supervising a drinking water pick up point.
“The Resilient Rochester project will benefit everyone in town,” Mr Knight said.
“If everyone is aware of their flood risk and what they can do to prepare, they can reduce the impact on themselves and their family. We are safe if we are prepared and all work together,” he added.
