Flood Study Review supports future flood planning in Thurgoona and Wirlinga

The study assesses flood behaviour and risk across the Eight Mile Creek catchment, covering approximately 65km2 within Albury’s primary growth area. It uses sophisticated computer modelling to show flooding behaviour for a range of flood events, from frequent floods to the most extreme, rare floods.

Albury Mayor Kevin Mack said the review gives Council critical information to better plan for future flood events as the area continues to grow.

“This updated flood study allows Council to plan more effectively for future flooding by using the best available data and modelling,” Mayor Mack said.

“It helps us understand where flood risks exist now and into the future, so we can make informed decisions about future land use planning, infrastructure delivery and emergency management, as well as help raise community awareness and preparedness for flood events.”

The review was undertaken in response to significant changes since the previous Eight Mile Creek Flood Study was completed in 2012, including advances in flood modelling technology and substantial urban growth across the catchment.

Council engaged Lyall & Associates Consulting Engineers in July 2024 to undertake the review, with the first stage of community consultation held in September 2024 to identify key flooding issues. A total of 531 responses were received, including 112 from residents who had experienced flooding. Most submissions reported impacts during flood events in September 2021, January 2022 and November 2022.

Community feedback identified flooding locations, water depth and flow velocity, and issues with drainage infrastructure, including road inundation. This information has been used to inform and calibrate the flood modelling underpinning the review.

Once the study is finalised and adopted, Council will use the updated flooding information to identify what changes to emergency management responses might be needed to reduce the impact of flooding events on the community. This will include separate processes such as preparing new planning controls, updating the Thurgoona Wirlinga Drainage Strategy and updating asset maintenance and renewal plans.

The draft Eight Mile Creek Flood Study Review is available on Council’s Engaging Albury platform, with submissions open until Thursday 2 April.