Shire of Buloke residents are this month remembering the devastating floods of a year ago. As we approach this anniversary it is important to recognise the resilience and commitment of the townships in rebuilding their communities and mitigating against the potential effects of future flooding. 

Integral to the rebuilding and future flood mitigation are the Charlton and Donald Flood and Drainage Management Plans. In 2011 the State Government provided the North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) with funding to lead the development of the plans in partnership with the Shire of Buloke.

The North Central CMA appointed BMT WBM Pty Ltd to develop the Charlton Flood and Drainage Management Plan, and GHD Pty Ltd to develop the Donald Flood and Drainage Management Plan. North Central CMA Floodplain Manager, Ms Camille White who is managing the plans, is very pleased with the progress and confident that planning timelines are being met.

“The development of these plans will take up to 12 months. BMT WGM has been working on the Charlton Plan for six months and is half way through to completion. GHD has begun the planning process for Donald. The plans are determining the potential impact of a range of flood events on the towns of Charlton and Donald.  This will equip us with the right information to improve flood warnings and emergency response, as well as assess potential mitigation options. 

Both companies value the community input we have received to date and have commended the enthusiasm and contribution from the townships in the process,” said Ms White.

A second community meeting will be held in Charlton on Wednesday 29 February to present the results of the flood modelling and to discuss potential mitigation options. A community meeting is also planned for Donald in late February with a focus on gathering valuable information from the community and to start discussion on the potential mitigation options available. All community members are encouraged to attend. 

A community based Steering Committee has been overseeing the development of the Charlton plan with members including Cr David Pollard, Cr Stuart McLean, Kaye Cossar, John Harley and Charlie Gillingham as the independent Chair. 



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