Major flood events impact the Pyrenees Shire

Published on 19 October 2022

Major flood events impact the Pyrenees Shire

Pyrenees Shire Council has welcomed the Victorian Government’s multi-million dollar funding announcement to kickstart the recovery of flood affected municipalities.

Council will work with the Government and agencies to determine what Pyrenees is eligible for under the funding for municipalities, including the $500,000 in immediate support.

Pyrenees Shire residents have been affected by two rain events, the first rain storm on October 6, exacerbated by the second rain event on October 14.

The rain and flood impacts have been felt across the Pyrenees Shire, the communities primarily affected are Avoca, Amphitheatre, Beaufort, Lexton and Natte Yallock.

Council staff are out in the community gathering information and making contact with affected residents.

Council has been working with emergency services to determine the extent of the damage to residential properties, roads, council and community infrastructure across the Shire.

Early estimates have the damage in the multi-million dollar space (upwards of $15 million).

It is estimated that at least 30 properties have had some above floor flood impacts, but that number is still being verified. Agricultural impacts like cropping and fencing are still being assessed but are believed to be substantial.

The Lake Goldsmith Steam Rally site, Avoca Recreation Reserve and pavilion, and a number of playgrounds including the Avoca Lions Park playground are among facilities known to be impacted.

Two of the municipality’s major events for the year, the Avoca Races and the Lake Goldsmith Steam Rally, have had to be cancelled, which will have a flow on economic impact into the municipality.

Council is operating two relief centres at the Beaufort Resource Centre and Avoca Information Centre, where staff are providing information and support.

Additionally, Council is bringing a municipality Recovery Team together to begin the planning for the short- and long-term recovery needs for the municipality.

“It has been a difficult time for many of our residents and community groups and I’d like to recognise the work of our local emergency services, our council teams and community members in all working together,” said Pyrenees Shire CEO, Jim Nolan.

“Council has been working to determine the impact of the flood inundation, and to support community members by providing information and practical help.

“The roads crews have been out clearing debris, repairing where they can and re-opening roads. It’s a big job, and there’s a lot more work to be done on Pyrenees Shire roads by government agencies.

“The true impacts are still coming to light. The focus has been on making roads and Council properties safe and resuming normal council services including waste pick up.

“Due to the impacts on a number of council and community infrastructure, the real clean-up work and repair work may take some time.

“With the potential for further rain, it’s important for community members to understand what they’ll do in the event of more flooding.”

Initial financial support is available for impacted residents through the Victorian Emergency Relief Assistance Payment. Those without internet access can attend the Avoca or Beaufort relief centres, or call Council on 1300 797 363 to register details.

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