Henry St, near Deniliquin High School, resembled a lake after the rain event.
Photo by
Rebecca Flisher
“We want people to know we hear them, and we are committed to finding solutions.”
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That is the message from Edward River Mayor Ashley Hall as frustrations regarding last week’s flash flooding event continued to be expressed on social media late last week and throughout the weekend.
Cr Hall said council recognises the impact on residents following the intense, short-burst rainfall on Wednesday night.
He also said council is right now working through a flood study, which will aim to investigate constraints and future solutions.
“We know how disruptive and distressing (last) week’s flash flooding has been for many residents,” he said.
“Unofficial reports show some parts of town received far more rain than the Bureau of Meteorology readings, and when that amount falls so quickly, it can overwhelm even well‑maintained drainage systems.”
Council crews responded throughout the night, managing road closures, monitoring high‑risk areas and installing ‘water over road’ signage at key locations around Wood, Napier and Slaone Sts, and a number of other affected areas.
Council CEO Jack Bond also acknowledged both the community’s concerns and the efforts of staff.
“Our teams were on the ground quickly and worked through challenging conditions to keep roads as safe as possible,” he said.
“At the same time, we recognise that events like this highlight areas where improvement is needed.
“We are focused on understanding the full picture so we can plan smarter and strengthen our overall resilience.”
Council is exploring immediate short-term projects that could be implemented to help alleviate flooding while a longer term, comprehensive drainage review is being undertaken.
This includes the detailed Overland Flood Flow Study - which recently opened for public consultation - to better understand how storm water moves across Deniliquin during heavy rainfall.
Wood St residents, particularly those between Napier St and Junction St, were inundated. Photo by Carrie Haig.
Photo by
Carrie Haig
The findings will guide future drainage planning and identify key infrastructure actions, including exploring options to increase drainage pit capacity to help reduce blockages in future events.
Cr Hall emphasised that community input is critical to ensuring the study reflects real‑world conditions.
“Your lived experience - whether from this week or previous rain events - is essential,” he said.
“The more people who share their observations, the more accurate and effective our long‑term strategy will be.”
A community survey is now open. Flyers and emails were sent to residents earlier this month, and the survey can also be accessed at https://www.haveyoursay.edwardriver.nsw.gov.au/deniliquin-major-overland-flow-flood-study-consultation.
A community drop‑in session on the flood study will also be held next Monday, March 30 at the Edward River Library in Deniliquin.
Residents can speak directly with staff and consultants between 2pm and 5pm, and Mr Bond encouraged community participation.
“This is an opportunity for residents to tell us exactly what they saw and experienced,” he said.
“The study must be informed by accurate data and broad community insight.
“That will give us the blueprint for the infrastructure and planning actions required to better manage future flood risk.”
Cr Hall said council is committed to continuous improvement.
“This study will help pinpoint the most effective actions and ensure we invest in the right solutions.
“Thank you to everyone for your patience, and for working with us as we move towards stronger long‑term outcomes for Deniliquin.”
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