Pyrenees flood clean up progresses despite ongoing wet conditions

Published on 30 November 2022

Council staff and volunteers from BlazeAid have been working steadily this past fortnight, getting to more than 25 flood affected properties and providing support and clean up in rural parts of the Shire.

Pyrenees Shire staff have been doorknocking residents in affected streets, while 15 BlazeAid volunteers have been working to clear debris from fencing and assess repairs to properties in Barkly, Moonanmbel and Lillicur.  

As farms and homes in the Shire continue to recover from the October and November flood events, volunteers from BlazeAid along with Pyrenees Council staff, are encouraging residents to get in touch with them to seek clean up support, even if you’re not ready to begin for a few weeks.

A basecamp has been established for BlazeAid at Moonambel Recreation to accommodate their volunteers working with community to clean up, repair and replace flood damaged fencing.

Following the recent downpours, ground conditions are still sodden, making it difficult for many farmers and croppers to get machinery back on their land.  

Many properties in Natte Yallock have been too wet to begin fencing clean up and repair. Instead, BlazeAid volunteers have helped clear debris from fencing around the Natte Yallock Recreation Reserve so the community can continue to enjoy the grounds.

At recent Drop-In information sessions at Natte Yallock, a number of landholders have reported that while they’re not yet ready for clean-up assistance, they may need to seek help for fencing repair when conditions dry up further.

“As soon as croppers can get in to clear their crops, they’ll be able to make a better assessment of what they need to get their land back on track,” said Ray Davies, Pyrenees Shire Council Manager Economic Development.

“We have support from the wonderful volunteers at BlazeAid here until mid-December and back again in January. Even if you’re not ready to begin clean up or fence repair, we strongly recommend getting in contact to set up a chat with the team, so they can get a sense of what’s needed on properties to begin helping again from January 4.”

Rural landholders are encouraged to get in touch about fencing repair and clean up in the coming months, as soon as possible by calling Council on 1300 797 363.

After a short break between 17 December to 3 January, BlazeAid will return to help Pyrenees landholders clear debris, restring fencing and replace or repair fence posts damaged by flooding.  

All landholders who have had damage, no matter how big or small their property, are eligible for BlazeAid help.

Visiting homes and businesses in Beaufort to offer assistance and check in on the November 14 flood impacts, council staff have offered information about safe clean up and financial support available through government grants and other non-profit groups.

“The beginning of summer fire season is almost upon us, but we also remain aware of the potential for future flooding events with wet conditions,” said Mr Davies. “I’d particularly urge our rural community who have not sought support for clean up or financial assistance to reach out. You don’t need to take care of this alone.”

Call Council on 1300 797 363 to organise the collection of flood-damaged carpet and household furniture. Skip bins for larger clean-up efforts may also be arranged by contacting Council. 

Stay up to date on the latest road closures, financial and clean up assistance in response to flood events at www.pyrenees.vic.gov.au/flood-updates

Photo caption: Pyrenees Shire Council Manager Economic Development, Ray Davies, speaks to local resident Bill Godfrey following another major flooding event in Beaufort