Photo: Damage to Wingham Brush pontoon after the March 2021 floods
MidCoast Council continues to repair a long list of flood-damaged public facilities as funding becomes available and resources are able to be committed.
The March 2021 floods damaged many places that are important to our community. With a total repair bill of $20 million, Council has been working through the backlog of repairs across the Manning. While some repairs have been completed, others require State Government funding to achieve.
Council continues to work with the State to secure funding to repair the riverbank wall in central Taree. Repairs are also required to every floating pontoon along the Manning River, including the pontoon at the Wingham boat ramp and car park. The barbecues, picnic area and toilets along with the boat ramp at the Wingham Riverside Reserve, have been cleared of debris and are ready for use.
At Wingham Tennis Courts, the floods caused a substantial land slip resulting in a subsidence issue next to the courts.
"We are working hard to secure funding to restore the tennis courts and we're very hopeful of receiving assistance," said Executive Manager of Community Spaces, Dan Aldridge.
The Wingham Riverside Reserve car park and the camping area remain closed.
Mr Aldridge explained "we've been delayed from undertaking repair works due to an endangered flying fox colony that lives in the Brush."
NSW Government guidelines for protecting flying fox colonies advise that sudden movement and loud noises can disturb the flying foxes and cause females to drop their young. From September to February absolutely no work can be conducted in close proximity to the colony.
"We'll get underway once that season concludes."
Chrissy Gollan Park at the entrance to Wingham is also in need of repairs to damaged infrastructure, but Council is unable to start works until additional resources and funding are made available.
"We are working with the State Government to obtain the funds we need to complete the flood repairs. Our aim is to get our public facilities back in working order as soon as we can."
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