The Gwabegar community is invited to share their local knowledge and experiences of flooding as part of the Gwabegar Flood Study, funded through the New South Wales Government’s 2024–25 Floodplain Management Program.
Narrabri Shire Council has engaged specialist consultants WRM Water to deliver the study, which will improve the understanding of flood behaviour in Gwabegar and inform future management of flood risk.
Mayor Darrell Tiemens encouraged all residents to get involved in the consultation process.
“Local knowledge is a critical piece of the puzzle when it comes to flood studies,” Mayor Tiemens said.
“By contributing your experiences, you’re helping build a clearer picture of how floods impact Gwabegar, which in turn will guide future planning, preparation and emergency response.”
All Gwabegar residents will receive a survey by mail, which can be returned to the Gwabegar Post Office. People who no longer live locally but have valuable knowledge from previous flood events are also encouraged to contribute by completing the survey online at Council’s website.
In addition, a community information session will be held on:
- Thursday 16 October
- 10.00am–12.00pm
- Gwabegar Community Hall
Residents are asked to RSVP via Councils website – www.narrabri.nsw.gov.au/gwabegarfloodstudy
Council’s Manager Planning and Development, Michelle Castles, said community input will strengthen the outcomes of the study.
“Flood modelling and technical analysis are important, but they can’t replace the lived experiences of people who have been through floods,” Ms Castles said.
“This consultation is an opportunity for the Gwabegar community to ensure their knowledge is captured and informs the study.”
The Gwabegar Flood Study will join Council’s existing suite of flood studies covering Narrabri, Wee Waa, and Boggabri.
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