What we heard from our community

We invited feedback on the draft FRMSP and received 211 submissions, including 95 hardcopy surveys, 19 online submissions, five emails, and meetings with 15 Aboriginal Traditional Custodians and knowledge holders. Some provided photos with their submissions. We had conversations with 77 attendees at the community information session. The project webpage had 298 unique views and three questions were submitted to the online Q&A.

What we heard

Survey

Respondents were asked to indicate their level of support for the following options for managing flood risk in the Allans Creek Catchment. Debris control structures were supported by most. While some expressed support for options that were not recommended in the report, there were similar numbers of respondents who objected to them or indicated a response was not applicable. Most were supportive of all the other options for managing flood risk.

Residents highlighted key concerns in their feedback, emphasising the need for proactive measures in creek maintenance. Debris control, erosion prevention, and dredging to deepen creeks were proposed, with accountability urged for the developer of an estate in Figtree regarding American Creek. Vegetation management suggestions included removing invasive plants and planting water-loving trees. Infrastructure improvement requests covered drainage upgrades, culvert maintenance, and solutions like raised levy banks. Criticism arose over stormwater infrastructure, and residents called for transparent communication, extended community input time, and SMS notifications for flood warnings. Climate change considerations, consistent development controls, flood mapping access, and careful planning were also stressed, along with concerns about insurance premiums, emergency response collaboration, and pet evacuation during floods. Several provided photos or videos with their submissions, to share their observations and experiences of flooding.

Meetings with Aboriginal stakeholders

The Aboriginal Traditional Custodians and knowledge holders we spoke to indicated a preference for debris control structures if placed over existing culverts and concreted areas. There were concerns about impacting natural creek areas and questions about the installation process and appropriate structure heights. A request was made for Council to explore natural systems like reeds and vegetation as a strategy to mitigate water flow speed. Elders were concerned about hard infrastructure impacting biodiversity, with consideration for environmental impacts urged. The proposed widening of Byarong Creek caused alarm due to its connection to sacred sites and potential consequences for water flow and flooding. A site review and on-site monitoring were requested should this option be pursued.

Open submissions

We received five open, written submissions from local resident/s and property owners, an operator of an electrical distribution network and a government organisation that manages emergency response and preparedness. Lengthy and/or technical submissions were provided in full to the team working on the FRMSP.

Residents in areas like Figtree and Unanderra have voiced concerns over persistent flooding issues, perceiving the need for proactive measures, accurate flood modeling, and clear communication from Council. Specific issues include creek maintenance, debris build-up, and vegetation causing flooding, impacting properties and insurance costs. Some criticised Council's responsiveness, calling for practical solutions like stabilising creek banks and installing drainage structures. Concerns about specific locations like Figtree Gardens Caravan Park and Unanderra Pool were highlighted. Residents proposed solutions, including infrastructure improvements, zoning accuracy, and private landowner education.

The State government organisation prioritises evacuation as the primary response to flooding. They noted the likelihood of flash flooding within 180 minutes and proposing a potential flash flood warning system pilot study. They requested updated flood plan documents in electronic form.

The representative of the electrical distribution network operator provided advice regarding their flood response plan and impacts of floods on the network.

Information session

Seventy-seven people attended the information session at Figtree Community Hall.

The discussions focused on:

• Creek maintenance and erosion concerns.
• Development Application (DA) issues.
• Flood insurance premiums.
• Complaints regarding Council responsiveness to reported issues.
• Specific location issues, e.g. flooding on Arrow Ave, flood and safety risks to residents of Figtree Caravan Park, and the M1 culverts.
• Concerns including blocked drains and inadequate infrastructure.
• Detailed concerns about specific properties.
• Community education.
• Infrastructure and environmental considerations.
• Widening of Byarong Creek.
  
  

Next steps

We will use this feedback to further refine the draft Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan. These are preliminary discussions about the recommended options. They will each require further investigation, consultation and approvals before going ahead. We will continue sharing information with the community and key stakeholders and seek input as we progress.

Read the full Engagement Report