Published on 25 August 2020
The Rochester community is being encouraged to develop a flood plan as part of the Resilient Rochester project.
Campaspe Shire Council General Manager Community, Keith Oberin said everyone has a role to play before, during and after a flood event and people with a flood plan cope much better.
"It is a proven fact that residents who are equipped with a flood plan are better prepared for an event with improved recovery from such events," Mr Oberin said.
The SES has prepared a Local Flood Guide for Rochester which includes important information on preparing for flood which is specific to their area. Information contained includes flood risks and warnings, where to find real time flood information, and checklists to help make a personalised flood plan.
Rochester SES controller, Judith Gledhill said the Unit reviews its flood arrangements annually to ensure details are up-to-date and ready for action, much like the fire season plans prepared by the CFA.
"In the event of a flood warning, it's important to understand what action needs to be taken to protect your family and we are looking forward to working with residents and business owners to prepare their flood plans," Ms Gledhill said.
Rochester resident of 15 years, Alana Godden had an infant and was nine months pregnant when her property by the river was impacted by the 2011 flood event.
"I speak from experience when I say that it's essential for residents to recognise what they need to do, act early and protect themselves and their families from flood. A prepared flood plan put in place early is the key," Ms Godden said.
"The SES came to my door and told me to evacuate but I thought I knew better and decided to stay. My husband had taken our vehicles to a friend's house a few streets away. Around 9pm I heard water running under the house and agreed it was time to go. We got in my husband's tip truck and I could not believe how hard it was to drive out of our driveway. The water current was really strong, it was very frightening."
"Now I have a flood plan which includes a written list of things I need to pack so that I don't forget to grab something important, or waste time thinking. I would definitely leave as soon as I was told to do so, well before the evacuation route is flooded," Ms Godden said.
Through the Resilient Rochester Project, homes and businesses in Rochester will receive a pack including a personalised magnet showing properties risk linked to automated Rochester Town Gauge on the Campaspe River, and a copy of the Rochester Local Flood Guide.
The project is implementing the final recommendations of the Rochester Flood Management Plan. Campaspe Shire is leading the community project in partnership with local and regional SES and North Central CMA.
The Rochester Local Flood Guide can be found on the SES website by typing 'Rochester flood' into the search field https://www.ses.vic.gov.au/
