NSW flood crisis – Keep informed, don’t panic, and stay safe
The communities of Walgett, Brewarrina, Bourke, Louth, and Tilpa are all at risk of flooding during November, but river levels are expected to stay at manageable heights.
The latest advice from the Bureau of Meteorology has predicted major flooding along the Barwon and Darling Rivers until well into December.
Flows in the Barwon River combined with flows from the Border Rivers, Gwydir, Namoi, Macquarie, Culgoa, and Bogan Rivers have combined to bring major flooding right along the Barwon-Darling river system.
The Barwon River at Walgett peaked at 13.37 metres around 8am on Sunday 6, with major flooding. The Barwon River at Walgett was expected to remain around 13 metres for a few days, and further rises are possible at Walgett where the river level may remain above the major flood level of 12.5m until mid to late November.
This week, Walgett Shire Council took a positive step of writing to all residents of the shire to notify them of the current situation.
In the letter, General Manager of Walgett Council Mike Urquhart said that the SES, Council, and other agencies were working tirelessly with the community to fill sandbags, protect infrastructure, rescue residents and stock from flooded areas, monitor flooding, ferry residents from isolated towns and resupply isolated farmers.
Mr Urquhart also outlined road conditions for residents and described the various services being provided by council and other agencies and the new Air Link flights being provided for Walgett and Lightning Ridge.
“Council would like to assure the Walgett community that while the levee around town remains extremely sound and flood height predictions do not indicate a breach of the levee, the levee continues to be patrolled 24/7 to ensure that if any issues arise, they can be resolved quickly,” Mr Urquhart said.
He also commended the Walgett business, emergency services and volunteers for their efforts in keeping the community safe.
“A big shout out must be given to local businesses who have been assisting with resupply to isolated communities. The local IGA team, pharmacies and petrol stations have done a tremendous job, and our community appreciates your commitment.
“To the amazing emergency services and their volunteers, your presence and assistance in our townships has been reassuring. We thank you for your efforts in keeping our communities safe,” he said.
“The people of Walgett Shire are resilient, and its pleasing to see the community coming together to help and support one another. We will get through this and come out the other side stronger, as we have done so many times before.”
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