Fijian flood delegation visits Tweed

A FIJIAN delegation of government officials has visited the Tweed to learn firsthand how the region tackles flood risks.

Part of a knowledge exchange tour organised by the International Water Centre at Griffith University and supported by the Australian Government, the visit aimed to help Fiji develop strategies for the Nadi Flood Alleviation Project.

The group travelled through Southeast Queensland and the Northern Rivers on their study tour, with Murwillumbah a key stop for its similarities with Nadi.

Both towns are located at the confluence of three river systems, surrounded by sugar cane fields and tourism developments, and have a long history of severe flooding.

Tweed Shire Council’s Manager Roads and Stormwater Danny Rose said strategic planning was vital in flood-prone areas.

“We’ve learned a lot over the years about integrating flood mitigation into our infrastructure and planning frameworks,” Rose said.

“The members found great value in seeing the flood mitigation systems in Murwillumbah firsthand, as they are very similar to the concepts being considered for Nadi.”

The meeting gave the delegation real-world examples of managing flood risk and inspecting Tweed’s flood mitigation systems, including levees, pump stations, early warning systems and planning policies.

“It’s rewarding to share our experiences and see how these lessons might be applied in Nadi,” Rose said.

“We see value in knowledge-sharing initiatives and look forward to supporting Fiji if needed as it works to mitigate flood risks and safeguard its communities and infrastructure.”

Mayor Chris Cherry said it was an honour to speak with the delegation embarking on a visionary project.

“It was great to see Griffith University facilitating knowledge sharing between the two countries to improve livelihoods into the future,” Cr Cherry said.

“I was humbled to see the resilience of the Nadi Council and community, and their experience of 26 major floods in 34 years is incredible.

“Hopefully, this project to reduce their flood risk will be pursued. I think they could see the value in investing in mitigation to protect their economy and the town in the future.”