Calling on residents to share flooding experiences

Published on 13 June 2023

Rockhampton Regional Council is calling on residents in Frenchville and South Rockhampton to make a difference in their neighbourhoods by sharing their experience of past flooding events.  

Flood Risk Modelling Studies are currently being undertaken for three catchment areas - South Rockhampton, Moores Creek, and Frenchman and Thozet Creeks. These studies will inform a Floodplain Risk Management Plan for each area.

The studies have been made possible thanks to $350,000 in funding from the Queensland Government’s North Queensland Natural Disaster Mitigation Program administered by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority.

Rockhampton Region Mayor and LDMG Chair Tony Williams said the feedback will help Council identify, assess and develop options for managing flood risk across three catchment areas.

“The planning that we’re undertaking will mean improved emergency response planning and management,” Mayor Williams said.

“While our technical specialists can provide modelling and data, we need to make sure we’re incorporating community experiences to ensure we get the planning right.   

“I encourage past and current residents within Frenchmans and Thozets Creeks, Moores Creek and South Rockhampton catchments to complete the short survey and share personal insights and experience of past flood events.

“The survey is open now and can be completed via EngageHQ. Residents have until 2 July 2023 to share their insights.”

Infrastructure Councillor Ellen Smith said these studies will provide a better understanding of the historical context of flooding experienced, as well as provide valuable information and insights into how we can improve flood resilience in the future.

“As weather patterns change, these studies become more vital in helping us to track these changes and keep in touch with potential increases in flood risk,” Cr Smith said.

“These catchment areas were selected as they have experienced population growth, urbanisation, and development.

“Over time, the changes made to the environment – including land clearing and new infrastructure – has led to changes in flooding behaviour.

“While these local catchments are the focal point for these studies, Council is concurrently completing several other projects in relation to the flooding experienced in other areas.

“To make informed decisions, it is critical that residents share their insights.

“The community will have additional opportunities to provide feedback later in the year as our planning progresses.

"We will keep the community informed about the progress of the studies and where you can share additional feedback."

For enquiries, please contact Council on 07 4932 9000.

To find out more about the study and to complete the survey visit: https://engage.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/flood-risk-management-studies