The removal of flood debris accumulated in waterways is continuing in the towns of Castlemaine, Newstead and Carisbrook.

Mr Damian Wells, Chief Executive Officer for the North Central CMA said the works are part of an emergency response under the direction of the State government who are funding the flood recovery program.

In Castlemaine, the North Central CMA is working closely with the Mount Alexander Shire and Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) with works underway in Forest Creek, near Gaulton Street.  Works are being undertaken along Campbells Creek (downstream of the footbridge near Winter Avenue) and from the Pyrenees Highway to Cemetery Road, Campbells Creek.

Flood debris removal is also planned for Barkers Creek between Walker and Forest streets pending drier conditions to allow machinery access.

Works in Newstead upstream of the Newstead-Maryborough Road, are also being coordinated by the North Central CMA with the cooperation of Mount Alexander Shire and DSE.. This work is expected to continue for a further two weeks.

Flood debris removal in Carisbrook between the Pyrenees Highway and Railway Bridge is progressing well with the support of the Central Goldfields Shire and DSE.  These works are also expected to continue for a further two weeks.

“The North Central CMA has responded to over 60 reports of flood debris blockages throughout the region with staff inspecting sites to determine whether backed up or diverted water could potentially damage critical public infrastructure in the event of future high flows and coordinating removal where necessary.

"While instream wood contributes to river health outcomes such as providing habitat for aquatic species, in some circumstances where public infrastructure is present, a balance needs to be struck between the environmental, social and economic values,” concluded Mr Wells.

For further information regarding the works or to report additional flood debris blockages, please contact the North Central CMA on (03) 5448 7124.

For further information please contact: 

Communications Officer, North Central CMA
PO Box 18, Huntly VIC 3551
t: 03 5448 7124
e: info@nccma.vic.gov.au