The North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) is seeking images to commemorate the centenary of the 1909 floods throughout this region.

In August 1909, widespread flooding occurred throughout Victoria. Some waterways experienced their largest flood ever recorded. It had a significant impact on the burgeoning transport networks, farming systems and early townships of North Central Victoria.

“During the current extended drought, it is important to remember times of flood and the impacts – both negative and positive – they have on our environment and community,” said North Central CMA Chief Executive Officer, Damian Wells.

“Flooding is a natural part of our catchment processes,” said Mr Wells. “We are aware of the economic and social damage that floods can bring. They also bring water to floodplains, wetlands and billabongs. In doing this, floods trigger an important cycle of ecological events, replenishing life, moisture and soil nutrients in the floodplain and improving the quality of water and the health of aquatic life in our rivers. This also improves farm productivity.

“The North Central CMA is responsible for planning to minimise the negative impact of floods when they occur. It is important to continue this work, even when floods are not at the forefront of our mind,” Mr Wells said.

To mark the centenary of the 1909 floods, the North Central CMA is collecting copies of images depicting the 1909 floods for a commemorative publication and display.

“We would like people to share images from the 1909 floods in this region that remind us of this significant event. We will make these available for the broader community as part of the commemoration,” said Mr Wells.

Copes of images from the 1909 floods in North Central Victoria must be provided to the North Central CMA by 31 August 2009. For details about submitting images, visit www.nccma.vic.gov.au or contact Sonia Robinson on 5440 1859 / email sonia.robinson@nccma.vic.gov.au.

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