Mitchell Shire Council has completed a project to provide updated land elevation (contour) data for towns across the municipality.
The project, funded through the Victorian Government's Council Support Fund, has delivered updated 1m contour data using surveys from 2022, 2023 and 2025.
Previous contour information was patchy and relied on older datasets from 2011 or 2019. The new data provides broader coverage and will be a valuable tool for residents, businesses and developers.
Contour data shows the shape and elevation of the land. It can be used to better understand drainage patterns, identify low points, and support enquiries relating to flooding, land grades and environmental management.
Seymour was hit hard by floods in 2022 and again in 2024. Since then, Council has been working to strengthen local flood preparation and resilience.
Council is progressing a Planning Scheme Amendment to implement the findings of the Whiteheads Creek Flood Study into the Mitchell Planning Scheme and investigating local measures in Seymour such as a backflow valve for Wallis Street and drainage solutions in Kings Park to help relieve flooding after an event.
Council is also continuing to advocate to all levels of government for funding to deliver flood studies across Mitchell Shire.
Flood studies are detailed investigations that use mapping, modelling and historical data to show how water behaves during heavy rainfall and flood events.
By providing this evidence base, flood studies play an essential role in reducing future flood impacts and building community resilience.
Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall said having up-to-date land elevation data is an important tool for the community.
"It gives residents, businesses and Council a clearer picture of how the land is shaped, where water might flow, and how we can plan more effectively for the future," he said.
"We thank the Victorian Government for supporting this project through the Council Support Fund.
"This investment means our community now has access to more accurate and useful information than ever before.
"At the same time, Council is taking practical steps to improve local flood resilience. We're working hard to make sure our community is better informed, better prepared and better protected."
The updated contour data is now publicly available here.
