Murrindindi Shire Council is continuing disaster recovery works across the Shire, following several declared natural disaster events in recent years. A number of major road and infrastructure projects have now been completed, with others close to finishing. These works form part of Council's ongoing effort to repair damaged assets, improve safety and strengthen infrastructure to better cope with future weather events where possible.
Council is working closely with state and federal agencies to secure funding and deliver repairs in line with prescribed Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) conditions and approval timelines. Council has supplemented DRFA funding with significant contributions from our Capital Budget to improve resilience to future disaster events.
One of the most significant projects recently completed is the Snobs Creek landslip repair, with the road now reopened to full traffic after being partially closed for more than two years. The project involved major strengthening and reconstruction of the road pavement and layers underneath the surface to ensure long-term stability and safety for all road users. While the road is now open, some works on the road shoulder are still underway and expected to finish soon.
Works at Coonan's Culvert are now complete, with the full rebuild replacing temporary flood repairs and removing previous load restrictions. The upgraded culvert eliminates a high-risk crossing, improves safety for all vehicles and reduces the likelihood of future flood-related disruptions. The upgrade has enhanced load capacity, enabling access for CFA, Forest Fire Management and heavy vehicles in the event of fire and other emergencies.
Rehabilitation works have also been completed at the wo cemeteries in Yea, which were impacted by floodwaters flowing through the sites, restoring safe access for families and visitors, while protecting important community and heritage assets.
Council has now completed approximately $4 million worth of disaster recovery works across more than 180 individual sites, with a further $18 million in recovery projects planned or underway, subject to State funding approvals and timelines.
Murrindindi Shire Council Sustainability and Assets portfolio Councillor Paul Hildebrand said disaster recovery was a complex, long-term process requiring sustained effort and advocacy.
"Council recognises the significant and ongoing impacts of repeated disaster events on our communities and infrastructure. While some locations have experienced significant disruption, reopening key roads and upgrading critical assets like bridges and culverts is a major step forward for safety, access and community confidence."
"Council is committed to making the most of DRFA funding and, wherever possible, rebuilding infrastructure that is stronger and more resilient than what existed before. We continue to advocate for additional state and federal support to help reduce the risk of repeated damage and costly repairs into the future." Cr Hildebrand said.
