Following the successful completion of last week's flood barrier installation exercise in Rochester, Campaspe Shire Council is reinforcing the importance of maintaining strong flood preparedness measures to protect critical community assets in the town's civic precinct.
The exercise, carried out on 4-5 March, involved the full deployment and pack‑down of the AquaFence flood barrier system around the Town Hall, Community House, Council service centre and library. A 10‑person crew completed the operation safely and efficiently, with only minimal disruption to local traffic, pedestrian access and parking.
Campaspe Shire Council Mayor, Cr Daniel Mackrell, said the successful exercise was an essential step in ensuring that key community facilities can continue operating-and continue supporting residents-during a future flood emergency.
"Protecting our community assets is about more than safeguarding buildings," Cr Mackrell said. "It's about ensuring continuity of vital services, and making sure that in a time of need, our community still has access to help, information and emergency support. These facilities play a critical role during an emergency, and practising the barrier deployment now ensures we're ready when it matters most."
The AquaFence system will continue to be stored at Council's Rochester depot, enabling rapid deployment ahead of any future flood event.
During the recent exercise, temporary footpath closures and machinery movements were safely managed, and Council appreciated the cooperation of nearby businesses and residents throughout the process.
Later this year further works are planned to resurface the rear carpark to provide a better seal for the barriers, along with building works to prevent the ingress of water through existing stormwater pipes and other openings.
"This is an important investment in our community's resilience," Cr Mackrell said. "Thank you to everyone for your patience and support as we continue strengthening our emergency preparedness."
The purchase of the flood barrier system was primarily funded by the Commonwealth and Victorian governments under the Disaster Ready Fund and the Regional Flood Risk Reduction program, with Council co-contribution and in-kind support from NCCMA and Water Technology.
