SES outlines next steps after flood salvage

After a dramatic aerial salvage operation this morning, Wye River’s flood recovery effort is shifting into a new phase.

A Black Hawk helicopter airlifted 14 cars and caravan chassis from beaches and rocky outcrops around Wye and Cumberland rivers — the result of last week’s flash flooding that swept vehicles into the sea.

Vic SES operations manager Chris Longmore said the fast-paced recovery was a success, but the job was far from over.

“Now we’re focused on what comes next — assessing the environmental impact, supporting affected residents and coordinating longer-term recovery,” he said.

The recovered vehicles have been transported to a secure storage site, allowing owners and insurers to begin damage assessments. Some were submerged or heavily buried under debris, requiring complex salvage efforts.

One caravan chassis remains at Cumberland River, buried under sand and currently deemed unrecoverable without further consultation.

“We’ll continue working closely with land managers and Traditional Owners to decide what’s possible and appropriate,” Mr Longmore said.

The Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation, the Environment Protection Authority, Surf Coast Shire and Colac Otway Shire are among the key agencies involved in post-recovery planning.

“We’re in a highly sensitive environmental and cultural area. Everyone involved is committed to doing this respectfully,” he said.

 

Local residents and businesses — already reeling from the flood and the temporary closure of the Great Ocean Road — are also being supported through the recovery process.

“This morning’s operation was a huge milestone,” Mr Longmore said.

“But the recovery journey is only just beginning. We know how hard this has been for the community.”

Further updates will be shared in the coming days as agencies complete site assessments and prepare for environmental and cultural rehabilitation.