Flood clean-up demonstration of community unity

Published on 17 October 2022

Cleaning up after the flood

Council is acknowledging the support of the community, neighbouring councils and State Government in the massive clean-up job following one of the worst flood events in the City’s history after the Maribyrnong River burst its banks early on Friday morning.

Heavy rain combined with a saturated catchment saw the River peak at 4.18 metres sending floodwaters into over a hundred properties in the low lying tidal area of the municipality, forcing residents to flee their homes. The worst flood on record in 1906 saw the River peak at 4.5metres. 

After floodwaters receded, and evacuated residents began returning home, Council clean-up crews hit the streets with sweepers, bobcats, and back hoes and have been working their way through flood impacted streets to clear debris, sweep roads and pressure wash footpaths.

Mayor, Cr Anthony Tran, said while this is clearly a testing time for many, one of the positives to come from this event is the way we are seeing our community coming together.

“It is at times like this,” he said, “when we see the best of people – and we’re seeing that demonstrated now in our City with many businesses, organisations and individuals putting their hands up to help.”

Mayor Tran says Council has been grateful also for the support from local and State Government.

“Moonee Valley helped with accommodation, and Port Philip, Brimbank and Wyndham councils have sent their street sweepers to help with the clean-up.

“We also welcome the half a million dollars in funding from governments Council Flood Support Fund announced yesterday to help cover the cost of clean-up efforts, including the collection and removal of debris on our parks, reserves and community assets, and help restore local facilities and services,” he said.

Supporting returning residents remains Council’s priority. The hard waste collection will continue throughout the week of 17-21 October, recognising more than one visit may be required as debris is cleared from flood impacted properties.

Council-owned buildings, parks and sports fields, and associated infrastructure, will also be assessed and cleaned where necessary to return them to the community for their use as soon as possible.

Anyone involved in the clean-up is reminded to wear the appropriate footwear and gloves, drink only bottled, boiled or disinfected water, wash your hands after handling any articles contaminated with floodwater, and not to let children play in the silt or water that may be lying around.

The Relief Centre at the Maribyrnong Community Centre remains open – from 9:00am to 5:00pm to provide support to impacted residents. This includes helping complete applications to access the government payment.

Maribyrnong News Stay up-to-date with the latest news by subscribing to our eNews.