Final draft of flood mitigation study opens for feedback

RESIDENTS and businesses in Tweed Heads South and Banora Point can now provide input into a new study to mitigate flood risk in the area.

Tweed Shire Council has invited the community to view the draft Tweed Heads South Levee and Drainage Study, which includes updated flood mapping, risk assessments and proposed structural and non-structural measures. The council’s flood and stormwater engineer, Leon McLean, said local knowledge was critical to the flood risk management process.

“Through the first stage of consultation, we heard from people across Tweed Heads South, Banora Point and the surrounding area about the floods that have disrupted their lives – from blocked drains and overland flow to homes and businesses inundated above floor level,” McLean said.

“Now, with the draft report complete and a proposed course of action defined, this is the community’s chance to look at the proposed strategy and tell us what will work best locally.

“By combining technical expertise with lived experience, we can shape practical solutions that strengthen our resilience to flooding.”

Building on earlier studies and extensive community consultation in 2023, the new draft includes feedback from more than 230 community members who shared their flood experiences, photographs and records to help inform the study and calibrate the flood models.

More than 80 per cent of participants had experienced some form of flooding, with many highlighting stormwater drainage and levee overtopping as key issues.

Popular suggestions included upgrading stormwater drainage, providing clear flood risk information and tightening development controls in flood-prone areas.

Residents will soon receive information about the study and proposed mitigation options, along with a printed survey inviting feedback on each option as well as on the full draft report.

The draft study is on exhibition for comment until Sunday, October 26.

To view it, visit yoursaytweed.com.au/ths-levee-drainage-study.