At Tuesday night's meeting Campaspe Shire Council officially adopted the Echuca Flood Risk Management Plan (EFRMP), marking a major milestone in flood preparedness and community safety.
The Echuca Moama Flood Study (EMFS) was completed in partnership with Murray River Council in March 2024, and documents the flooding behaviour of the Murray, Campaspe, and Goulburn Rivers under current conditions. It includes detailed assessments of flood extents, depths, and associated risks for Echuca and Moama.
The Echuca Flood Risk Management Plan builds on this foundation by recommending targeted flood mitigation works and development controls for future planning scheme reviews. It also includes benefit-cost assessments and enhancements to flood warning systems, providing vital intelligence for emergency response agencies.
Campaspe Shire Mayor, Cr Daniel Mackrell emphasised this as a significant step forward in protecting our community from future flood events.
"The Echuca Flood Risk Management Plan provides a clear roadmap for mitigation and preparedness, and we are proud to have worked closely with our residents to shape these recommendations," he said.
Key recommendations include the construction of levees at strategic locations such as:
- Campaspe Esplanade at Murray Valley Highway
- Eastern side of Campaspe River near Hicks Crescent and surrounding streets
- Echuca Holiday Park and Watson Street
- Echuca East from Sturt Street to Snowden Street
- Bynan / Crescent Streets residences
The plan also supports easing planning controls to allow small ring levees around dwellings and key business infrastructure in Echuca Village, and a review of drainage outlets to prevent floodwater ingress.
Community consultation played a central role in shaping the EFRMP, with drop-in sessions, media outreach, and online engagement ensuring broad participation.
"The final plan reflects community feedback and includes responses to all submissions received during the public exhibition period.
"This plan is more than infrastructure—it's about protecting lives, homes, and livelihoods. We've listened to our community and now we're acting," Cr Mackrell added.
