Extreme flood study: Kangaroo Flat and Golden Square residents weigh in with options

Clearing weeds and debris along the creek was a popular option with members of the public gathering for Thursday's consultation session on ways to tackle the kind of floods likely in the area once in 100 years.

There is a risk in clearing too much vegetation from creeks, even if it helps avoid some damage during smaller floods, Water Modelling Solution's Julian Skipworth told residents.

"When it gets to the big floods ... the water is spread out over a larger area so the impact is less."

Removing too much vegetation could be hard to get ongoing funding for and increase erosion, Mr Skipton told residents.

"It can (also) make flooding worse downstream. If you're in a town with nothing but paddocks down creek that's not an issue," he said.

"Obviously, here, we have central Bendigo downstream."

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Yet, flood engineers do want to know if there were specific areas that are particularly choked with weeds.

Mr Skipton also encouraged people to think about options like levies, larger drains and culverts and drainage works.

"The study is on what the flood risk is and, then, what we are going to do about it. We are going to look at a whole range of mitigation options put forward by yourselves (the public), the council and other stakeholders," he said.

Computer modelling will be used to work out what options might help reduce risks to properties during extreme floods, Mr Skipton said.

A second consultation session on ideas water engineers have tested is being scheduled for early 2020, with more opportunities for public feedback, he said.

Ninety five properties would have a higher risk of damage during extreme flooding, 81 of which would be homes, according to the latest modelling.

To have your say, visit the City of Greater Bendigo's website.

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