City urges Ocean Grove residents to share stormwater experiences

THE City of Greater Geelong is inviting residents from Ocean Grove and surrounds to share their experiences of stormwater in their community as part of a detailed study of the area.

Residents, business owners and property owners are encouraged to submit photos, records and descriptions of their experiences of stormwater issues in the Ocean Grove catchment area, which covers about 41 square kilometres and includes Ocean Grove, Wallington, Marcus Hill and parts of Point Lonsdale.

Information submitted to the Ocean Grove Stormwater Study will help the city and other relevant authorities to better understand flood, stormwater quality and water security risks in the region. This will inform recommendations for infrastructure planning, emergency response, community preparedness and improvements in land use.

Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said the development of the stormwater study is important for the future resilience and liveability of the region.

“The Ocean Grove Stormwater Study, along with our Stormwater Services Strategy, will play a key role in the growth, health and liveability of the region by adapting and future-proofing our stormwater services for the benefit of the community for years to come,” Cr Asher said.

“This sort of action is part of our environmental sustainability planning and I encourage the Ocean Grove, Wallington, Marcus Hill and Point Lonsdale communities to contribute to the study so that we can better understand, manage and respond to risks and opportunities in the area.

“Your personal recollections of stormwater events, including the impact on your property or surrounding area, will help to ensure that we have a detailed picture of stormwater issues in this area. “So think back to when you’ve seen high water or suffered the inconvenience of floodwater damage.”

The study was identified as a high priority in the city’s Stormwater Services Strategy 2020-30 and is expected to be completed in December.

Community feedback can be submitted until March 23 via the Have Your Say page at yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/OGFS.