Award for flood response

THE Institute of Public Administration Australia has awarded Coliban Water the Emergency Management Award for its response to 2022’s spring floods.

Managing Director of Coliban Water, Damien Wells, said the award reflects the organisation’s commitment to its customers.

“During a crisis, people look to the helpers, and that’s what we were,” he said.

“We were working 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure the vital community assets of water and sewer were protected as the flood waters rose.”

He said the award reflects the efforts of the community who continue to deal with the aftermath of the flooding events, including in places like Rochester.

“This award is dedicated to the communities of Echuca and Rochester, who months on from this event are still experiencing the consequences from the flood,” said Mr Wells.

“Many Rochester residents’ lives are far from back to normal as they continue to live in caravans in their driveways and away from their homes while the repair and rebuild process continues.”

Coliban Water was also named a finalist in the Communications and Engagement Excellence Award category.

“We established a single source of truth approach by implementing a regular communication rhythm to cut-through noise, dispel myths and create trust with customers, community partners and other stakeholders,” said Mr Wells.

“This approach focused on supporting the community by giving them accurate, timely and dependable information.”