Flood Recovery

What to do now and down the sodden track

Twelve months after the Campaspe River burst its banks in Rochester, residents and business owners must feel like it’s Groundhog Day. The rural township is just one of the dozen or so Victorian towns dealing with flood water following two days of torrential rain in the Lake Eppalock catchment area.

A broad band of rain swept most of the State on Christmas Day with falls of up to 100mm in some areas. Two weeks later, a low pressure system once again made its way from the North West with Heathcote topping the State with a massive 141mm in 24 hours. It was only a matter of time before the river systems started offloading it’s excess water into low lying land downstream.

If your farm property or business has been, or is likely to be affected by flooding, you have probably thrown a short-term plan into place. If you’re still facing the Vic Emergency offers some fantastic tips on what you should and shouldn’t be doing in this type of scenario.

For urgent animal welfare issues call the Vic Emergency Hotline: 1800 226 226

For flood impact on farms including stored grain, feed, silage, property damage etc. go to the Ag Vic website and fill in the Income Assessment form.

For insurance claims or possible future flood grants take photos and/or videos (when safe to do so) of flood waters and associated damage.

For urgent mental health/wellbeing issues go to our contacts page for a variety of emergency support providers.

If you’re wondering about the long-term consequences of flood damage and the viability of your business (farm or non-farm) moving forward, the RFCS can help you assess your options. Head to our Farm or Small Business pages to see more information on our services or call us on 1300 735 578.