Sharman Stone MP

Flood affects locals

January 17, 2011

After a traumatic week of rain, many residents in the Loddon and Campaspe shires have been evacuated from their homes, or had their businesses and farms inundated by flood water.

“Water has swept through the Rochester, Serpentine, Bridgewater, Dingee and Echuca areas and has affected hundreds of family homes, road networks, farms and businesses,” Dr Sharman Stone, Federal Member for Murray said.

“My most sincere sympathies are with all those affected by floods over the past 3 days. It is devastating to watch our rural communities get inundated by water.

Sharman Stone said she had spent a significant amount of time on the phone over the weekend trying to get information to residents, who had no idea what was going on, as well as to those trying to get access to up to date information. 

“The greatest concern is that people on farms, who are isolated are not getting any indication that they need to evacuate, or how high the water levels might be.

 “People on the eastern side of Loddon Shire had very little warning as there are a limited number of creek gauging stations to provide any information on the flow or height of the water.

Sharman Stone said the flooding has been traumatic for farmers who have not had a chance to move livestock to higher ground.

“There has been a significant loss of livestock and damage to fencing is causing the immediate problem of not being able to contain the animals that people have been lucky enough to save.

“Crops, as well as homes and possessions have been devastated.

“Once the flood crisis is over an urgent review of the communications strategy for rural and regional areas need to be undertaken to make sure systems are in place to provide accurate and up to date information to people living in isolated rural areas.

Sharman Stone said many townships are still on high alert, so it’s important that people fully understand how they will be affected personally and the need to take appropriate steps to evacuate their homes.

“In many cases power and phones are the first things to stop workings so it is particularly important that neighbours keep in touch with each other and always keep listening to your local radio station. The Flood and Storm Information Line can provide updates on 1300 842 737.

“If you are concerned for your home contact the SES on 132500 or in a life threatening emergency call 000,” Sharman Stone said. 

“The recovery process will begin immediately and I will be calling on the Federal and State governments to urgently ensure there is funding available for locals whose homes and livelihoods have been affected.

“We are a strong community. 10 years of drought, fires and now flooding rains have made us resilient. We know how to stick together and help each other through the tough times,” Sharman Stone said.