At its meeting last night, Campaspe Shire Council endorsed the functional design plans for the proposed Echuca East Levee, marking a significant step toward improving flood protection for the Echuca East community.
The levee project aims to safeguard approximately 275 properties currently exposed to flooding during a 1% Annual Exceedance Probability (AEP) event. The design includes a 2.6 km levee system, stormwater retarding basins, and permanent pump stations to manage rainfall during flood events. Stage 1 of construction will focus on the most vulnerable area between Mitchell Street and the water treatment plant.
Campaspe Shire Mayor Cr Daniel Mackrell said the endorsement reflects Council's commitment to building a safe and resilient community.
"This project is about protecting homes, reducing economic and social impacts, and ensuring Echuca East is prepared for future flood events and the challenges of climate change," Cr Mackrell said.
Council's Director Infrastructure Kate Lemon said the endorsement enables the project team to progress detailed approvals and prepare the works for delivery as funding opportunities arise.
"The functional design strikes the right balance between robust flood protection and environmental stewardship. It integrates retarding basins and permanent pump stations to manage local stormwater when river outlets are closed, and sequences construction, starting between Mitchell Street and the water treatment plant, to reduce risk for the most vulnerable households first," Ms Lemon said.
Council will now proceed with securing necessary approvals, negotiating land access, and investigating funding opportunities, including federal and state grants and contributions from beneficiaries.
The functional design was developed by Dryside Engineering in close consultation with the Echuca East community and key stakeholders. Extensive engagement has demonstrated strong community support for the proposal.
"Council's endorsement ensures the project will be 'shovel-ready' when funding opportunities arise, positioning Echuca East for a safer future, Cr Mackrell added.
