Flood damage assessments continue
Published on 07 December 2022
Gannawarra Shire Council is working to assess the damage across the municipality as floodwaters start to recede in some communities.
Using initial impact data provided by Agriculture Victoria and emergency services, Council is progressively undertaking secondary impact assessments to houses, businesses, farms, roads and bridges, council and community facilities.
“For some residents in the Gannawarra, cleanup efforts are underway, whilst for others, especially those around Benjeroop and Murrabit West, floodwaters are yet to recede,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said.
“It is important that Council has a full understanding regarding damage caused by these floods as it will assist when seeking support to help the Gannawarra’s flood recovery.”
One major issue impacting communities is standing water left behind as floodwater has receded.
“Standing water is an issue as not only does it prohibit residents wanting to clean up their properties, it also is dangerous to humans due to the many kinds of bacteria and can support increased breeding areas for mosquitoes,” Mr O’Reilly said.
“Council staff flew over flood-impacted areas last week to determine where major stagnant water locations are, with a working group developed to investigate how to remove water from these areas.”
Residents who have been impacted by the floods are encouraged to visit the “Have you been impacted by the floods” section at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/floods or drop into Council’s Community Emergency Relief Hubs, located at the Cohuna Customer Service Centre (open 10am-4pm weekdays) and Kerang Customer Service Centre (open 8.30am-5pm weekdays).
“Residents who register their details will be contacted by a representative from Windermere Services, whose friendly and experienced staff are helping to determine what assistance each resident needs and then working with other agencies, including Council, to provide that support,” Mr O’Reilly said.
“This data will also assist Council in advocating to all levels of government for what support our communities need. This includes repairs to infrastructure, such as roads and bridges; but importantly ongoing physical wellbeing and mental health support.
“Council is also continuing to investigate what specific relief it can directly provide and we will communicate this information once confirmed.”
For more information regarding support available, please visit Council’s online flood emergency portal, located at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/floods. This page includes fact sheets outlining what assistance is available, links to relief payments and grants, and information that may assist during recovery and cleaning up efforts.