The North Central Catchment Management Authority and Mount Alexander Shire Council are developing a flood study for the town and want to draw on local knowledge of past floods to better inform how they manage and mitigate the impacts of flooding into the future.
Barkers Creek runs through the town and North Central CMA’s Nick Butler said Harcourt flooded in 2007, 2010, 2011 and 2016.
“From previous flood events we know there is little information available on record to create a full picture of what happens when Harcourt experiences a large-scale flood event,” Mr Butler said.
“We have contracted Venant Solutions to help pull the study together, but locals know the area better than anyone. We’re wanting to hear from the community to tell us what happens on the ground when the area floods.
“We’re also keen to hear community ideas about what could be done to protect the area. The more we hear from the community, the stronger our flood planning is.”
Mr Butler said the flood study would identify the potential impacts of future flooding and, more importantly, help the community prepare.
The study will include flood modelling scenarios to identify areas that are at risk of flooding.
“With up-to-date information, Mount Alexander Shire will be in a good position to update planning schemes for future development as well as build community education,” Mr Butler said.
A project steering committee with local representatives will provide input and feedback to North Central CMA during the development of the study. And the broader community will also have opportunities to offer more feedback.
The project is expected to be completed by the end of April, 2023.
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