Protecting their homes, businesses and families from flood waters is the main priority of residents living near the Maribyrnong River according to feedback provided to Melbourne Water as part of efforts to prevent a repeat of the 2022 floods.
The feedback is detailed in a report released by Melbourne Water this week as part of its Maribyrnong River Catchment Flood Mitigation Study.
The phase one feedback report is based on community engagement conducted from May to June which included more than 500 responses to an online interactive map, more than 100 attendees at in person events and 51 members of community partnership panels.
Whether they were impacted by the 2022 Maribyrnong River floods or concerned about future flood events, personal safety and the safeguarding of property were the most important issues for respondents, with many willing to have parks, playgrounds and other public spaces temporarily closed to reduce flood risk.
The importance of keeping roads, bridges, public transport routes and health services functional during emergencies was also highlighted, with respondents wanting mitigation measures to help ensure this happens.
“Phase 1 has given us clear guidance: protect homes, enhance emergency facilities and respect the river and the surrounding environment,” said Melbourne Water executive general manager of service futures Chris Brace.
“These findings will shape the assessment of potential mitigation approaches.”
The importance of health and wellbeing was also emphasised, with many community members wanting mental health support, social cohesion initiatives, and resilience-building programs to be included in any future flood mitigation programs.
Some respondents took the opportunity to share their personal stories of the Maribyrnong River, recalling childhood fishing trips, family gatherings and cultural ceremonies, while others said protecting the local environment had to be part of any flood risk reduction efforts.
Phase 2 of the study will commence towards the end of this year and will feature more community engagement as well as the release of a list of flood mitigation options for public review.
Feedback will then be used to identify the solutions to be advanced for further development.
For more information, visit: letstalk.melbournewater.com.au/maribyrnong-mitigation
To read the report: https://letstalk.melbournewater.com.au/maribyrnong-river-flood-model/phase-1-engagement-summary
