Flood recovery work earns national recognition

A ROUS County Council project officer has been named a finalist in the Floodplain Management Australia awards for her role in flood recovery and environmental protection across the Northern Rivers.

Chrisy Clay was recognised for her work on sustainable floodplain management, including upgrades to drains and floodgates and efforts to reduce blackwater and acid sulfate soil risks.

“There are many people like me in the Ballina, Lismore and Richmond Valley who are all just trying to help the community continue on its recovery,” she said.

Ms Clay has been an advocate for restoring natural floodplains and promoting sustainable land use that benefits both communities and the environment.

Her focus has been on addressing the economic and environmental challenges associated with historic, rural flood mitigation infrastructure.

It includes issues and upgrades to drains, floodgates, acid sulfate soils and blackwater.

She has also played a key role in regional initiatives, including community forums and resilience-building programs such as the Northern Rivers Drainage Reset and Volunteer Active Floodgate Management group.

A big part of her role is looking after infrastructure outside the urban area in Lismore.

“Since the floods in 2022, there has been an even bigger set of challenges working in this space,” she said.

“Like a lot of people, I was impacted personally and I’ve had to raise my house and see how others were affected, too.

Ms Clay said the award nomination was a welcome sign her efforts were being recognised.

“It’s a challenging role, but I love it and enjoy knowing I have the opportunity to make a difference.”

Ms Clay also helped create a Women in Operations group at Rous and has worked within a tight budget and asset challenges.