Armidale Regional Council has completed the first flood study for the Guyra area, marking a significant milestone in understanding local flood risks and supporting future planning, development and emergency preparedness.
The Guyra Flood Study will be on public exhibition from Wednesday, 29 July, to Tuesday, 25 August 2026. Community members are encouraged to review the document and provide feedback.
Prepared by council staff in collaboration with specialist consultants and representatives from the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), the study identifies the potential impacts of flooding across a range of flood events, from smaller, more frequent floods to the largest possible flood scenario.
The findings provide information on how flooding could affect homes, businesses, roads and other infrastructure in and around Guyra.
Mayor Sam Coupland said the study was a landmark piece of work for Guyra.
“For the first time, we have detailed information about how flooding may occur in and around the township and surrounding areas, giving Council, emergency services, landowners and the broader community a much clearer understanding of local flood risks,” said Coupland.
“Understanding flood behaviour is essential for making informed decisions about future development, protecting infrastructure and ensuring the community is prepared when severe weather events occur.”
Guyra’s unique topography means relatively few properties are directly affected by potential flooding compared with many other flood-prone communities.
“While the area potentially impacted by flooding is relatively small, it is still important that we understand these risks and plan accordingly,” said Coupland.
Under the NSW Government’s flood risk management framework, local councils are responsible for managing flood risk within their local government areas. The study provides the foundation for future floodplain risk management, planning and mitigation measures.
The study will also be provided to the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) to support emergency response planning and improve the accuracy of flood forecasting and warning systems.
Property owners whose land has been identified in the Guyra Flood Study will receive a letter inviting them to meet with council staff to discuss the findings.
Council encourages residents, businesses and property owners to review the study and provide feedback via https://yoursay.armidale.nsw.gov.au/guyra-flood-study.
Like what you’re reading? Support New England Times by making a small contribution today and help us keep delivering local news paywall-free. Donate now