Ghow (Kow) Swamp, Pyramid Creek flood risk being monitored
Published on 12 January 2024
Emergency management authorities are monitoring increased flows into Ghow (Kow) Swamp following flooding that impacted Central Victoria on 7-8 January 2024.
Significant rainfall occurred within the Bendigo Creek catchment, with moderate flooding occurring along Bendigo Creek downstream of Minto, affecting communities upstream of Ghow (Kow) Swamp.
“Water levels and increased flows along Bendigo and Bullock creeks have been monitored this week and Council is working closely with emergency management authorities to ensure measures are in place to reduce risks and protect properties,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.
“It is expected that water levels that may flow through Pyramid Creek and on to the Murray River at Benjeroop will be lower than what we saw during the 2022 floods and largely remain within the creek banks.”
As part of flood mitigation efforts, Goulburn-Murray Water has increased flows from Ghow (Kow) Swamp over the Box Creek Regulator and into the Pyramid Creek to 1,500 megalitres per day. This increased flow commenced on Wednesday, 10 January 2024.
In preparation for the Bendigo catchment floodwater to arrive, work has also occurred by the relevant authorities to repair levees that were damaged during the 2022 floods, with Council advised that repairs to nine levees located along Pyramid Creek will be completed by Saturday, 13 January. Repairs to two breached levees in the Benjeroop area have also been approved to be repaired and it is expected that this work will be undertaken next week.
“As with any emergency situation, including floods, responsible authorities such as the Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) and Victoria Police may approach Council for assistance if required, be it equipment or personnel,” Mr Rollinson said.
“Residents are encouraged to remain calm and informed, and to reach out for accurate information and assistance from the relevant authorities as required.”
Residents can stay up to date with emergency warnings and road closures by relying on these trusted sources. These include:
Council will also seek to provide updated warnings and information via its Facebook page (www.facebook.com/Gannawarra).
“Motorists are reminded not to drive through floodwater. Vehicles can lose traction in as little as 15 centimetres of water, whilst the wake from vehicles driving through flash flooding in towns can inundate businesses and houses,” Mr Rollinson said.
Should residents be seeking assistance, sandbags or other resources in relation to flood protection, residents are encouraged to contact VICSES on 132 500 as the lead agency for floods and storms. If you are in immediate danger phone Triple Zero (000).
Residents whose home, infrastructure or business was damaged by recent storm or flooding are encouraged to advise Council of this damage by phoning Council’s Flood Recovery Support Team on (03) 5450 9333 during business hours, visiting Council's Customer Service Centres at Cohuna and Kerang, or completing the form available under the "Have you been impacted by the floods/storms" heading at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/floods