Dear Community members

With the recent wet weather, Council has been monitoring Painkalac Creek water levels. River levels have risen to 1.89 metres which results in minor drain flooding along roadsides in specific low lying areas. The reservoir is currently full and is therefore not able to hold back any upstream inflows. The sand berm at the river mouth is blocking the river flows and is approximately 0.65 metres above the estuary water levels.

With a further significant rainfall event due and without removal of the sand berm, it is likely water levels will rise enough to cause flooding to houses. Council is therefore proposing to open the estuary mouth today with the support of CCMA, Barwon Water and DELWP.

Sharna Whiteheasd
Coordinator Community Emergency Management
Surf Coast Shire Council

P.S. the opening was only partial and closed over in a few days.