Wangaratta, a town nestled along the Ovens River, is bracing for the potential onslaught of flooding as the river swells following recent rainfall. The local community, in a proactive display of preparedness, has embarked on a mission to fortify the Painters Island Caravan Park, a popular tourist destination, against the impending floodwaters. The SES unit, led by controller Jess Zuber, has been instrumental in this endeavor, mobilizing 10 dedicated volunteers to fill approximately 100 sandbags. This strategic move is a testament to the community's commitment to safeguarding their beloved park, which has endured three floods in the last nine years.
The urgency of the situation is underscored by the river's current height of 9.29 meters, with the peak expected to reach 12.5 meters, a level that has been recorded before during previous flooding events. The Ovens River, a lifeline for the region, is not alone in its impending surge; the Kiewa, Upper Murray, Mitta, and Broken rivers are also under the watchful eye of VicEmergency, which has issued flood warnings for the entire North East region. The recent rainfall has not been without its consequences, with reports of minor storm damage, including fallen trees blocking roads, further highlighting the challenges faced by the community.
The caravan park, strategically located near the Ovens River, serves as a vital tourist hub, attracting visitors to the region. The use of sand from the park itself for the sandbags is a practical and efficient approach to flood management, ensuring that the necessary resources are readily available. The dedicated volunteers, spending their Sunday morning filling the bags, embody the spirit of community resilience and preparedness.
As the floodwaters rise, the impact on the region's infrastructure and residents is a pressing concern. The potential for properties on the Ovens and King river flood plains to be cut off by heightened water levels underscores the gravity of the situation. The recent rainfall has brought a total of 27.2 millimeters of precipitation to Wangaratta, with similar amounts recorded in nearby towns like Albury, Rutherglen, Yarrawonga, Falls Creek, Deniliquin, and Wagga.
In the face of these challenges, the community's proactive measures and the support of the SES unit provide a glimmer of hope. The filled sandbags, a symbol of resilience, stand as a testament to the town's determination to protect its beloved caravan park and the surrounding areas from the devastating effects of flooding. As the Ovens River continues its ascent, the town of Wangaratta remains vigilant, ready to face the challenges that lie ahead with unwavering resolve.
