Tablelands councils to share in $270,000 to manage flood risks

Councils working on projects to mitigate risks from flooding are to receive funding support, Member for Northern Tablelands Richard Torbay said recently.
Mr Torbay welcomed a funding commitment by the Minister for Environment Robyn Parker to provide $270,133 to be shared between six councils in the Northern Tablelands – Armidale Dumaresq, Glen Innes Severn, Guyra, Gwydir, Uralla and Tenterfield.
Funding has been allocated under the State Floodplain Management Program and the Floodplain Risk Management Grants Scheme.
“Devastating floods earlier this year in the northern-most communities of this electorate and southern Queensland demonstrate the importance of effective floodplain management,” Mr Torbay said.
“With proper planning in place, the risks to the community can be reduced and this funding program allows councils to carry out that work,” he said.
“Projects supported by this funding can include the construction of flood mitigation works such as levee banks and diversion ponds, educating the public about risks and river gauging systems.
“I welcome this funding and commend the councils involved for their ongoing commitment to community safety.”
The funding allocation for each council is:
■ Armidale Dumaresq Council – $60,133 for a flood study update;
■ Glen Innes Severn Council – $10,000 for the Glen Innes flood study;
■ Guyra Shire Council – $30,000 for the Tingha Township flood study;
■ Gwydir Shire Council – $90,000 to review the existing Gwydir flood study;
■ Tenterfield Shire Council – $40,000 for the Tenterfield flood study; and
■ Uralla Shire Council – $20,000 for the Uralla flood study.