Residents to remain evacuated as Torquay dam is drained

Torquay residents evacuated due to concerns about the stability of the privately-owned dam near Pintail Drive have been advised they will likely be able to return to their houses tomorrow afternoon, with the cause of the leaks still unknown.

VICSES hosted a community meeting this afternoon to update residents on the matter.

They informed residents that to ensure the safety of the area, half of the dam’s 180-gigalitre capacity was being drained.

Emergency services and the Surf Coast Shire council are working with engineers to try and identify the issue.

Council is also aiding people who need help finding accommodation for the night. They assured residents any accommodation they needed would be paid for.

Along with VICSES members, Victoria Police officers will remain on-site and available to help locals while the dam is drained.

Anyone who has been evacuated and needs to re-enter their home for medication or any other reason are encouraged to first talk to the police on site.

They will generally be near the corner of Cosey Avenue and Pintail Drive.

Three households reported flooding in their backyard this morning. VICSES said they do not believe any further properties have been affected.