A stormwater investigation for the mitigation of local flooding in Heathcote, commissioned by the City of Greater Bendigo, seeks to determine the needs of infrastructure to reduce the potential impacts of flooding in the township.
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The investigation will focus on understanding the impact of stormwater on the town and reducing local flood risk from streams along McIvor Creek, such as Caledonia Gully, Possum Gully, Long Gully and Golden Gully.
City of Greater Bendigo engineering manager Brett Martini said several locations within Heathcote can experience flooding following major rainfall.
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"The purpose of the investigation is to reduce the risk and impact of flash flooding by providing a holistic approach in line with future planning for the township," Mr Martini said.
"We are interested in gathering information and ideas from local residents, who have a wealth of wisdom, knowledge and skill in the community and we are keen to hear interesting stories from past floods and any ideas people may have."
In July 2014, the North Central Catchment Management Authority received funding to lead the development of the Heathcote Flood Study.
In 2016, the study's report recommended the implementation of numerous planning scheme and building controls, which was brought before Bendigo councillors in November 2019 and put forward to the Planning Minister in December 2020.
The amendment remains under the Minister's consideration.
The proposed amendment would only affect new land uses and development proposals and not existing buildings or structures.
In November 2019, director strategy and growth Bernie O'Sullivan said no changes had been made to flood mapping and flood-related planning controls since the late 1990s and early 2000s.
"The proposed changes to the amendment seek to protect life and property in areas that are at risk of flooding in Heathcote and to ensure that up-to-date information on flooding is taken into consideration with dealing with future development," Mr O'Sullivan said.
Heathcote has experienced a number of major flood events since settlement, with the most notable events occurring in September 1870, September 1906, April 1939 and May 1974.
Although not significantly impacted by the January 2011 floods, the study was funded to provide updated flood information, prepare for increased development pressure and offer flood intelligence information.
Residents can have their say on the stormwater investigation by email at HFMS@bendigo.vic.gov.au and can visit bendigo.vic.gov.au/HFMS by March 8, 2021.
