MORE than 100 Aireys Inlet properties could be at risk of inundation from the Painkalac Creek by 2100, a new flood risk study has revealed.<\/p>\n
The flood mitigation and adaption study, undertaken by the Surf Coast Shire, found that a changing climate, with more unpredictable storms and rainfall, is expected to increase flood risks for residential properties, businesses and critical infrastructure near Painkalac creek.<\/p>\n
Previous data suggested around 50 private properties near the creek were at risk of inundation without intervention, but new long-term modelling has shown the flood-prone area could expand to affect up to 54 additional properties over the next 75 years.<\/p>\n
The shire has contacted the newly affected property owners to discuss the updated modelling and will offer one-on-one meetings to address questions and concerns.<\/p>\n
Surf Coast mayor Mike Bodsworth said the findings would have varying implications for the community but are an important step in preparing for future conditions.<\/p>\n
“We acknowledge that the flood modelling will have a variety of impacts for the Aireys community, particularly for properties in the redefined risk area,” he said.<\/p>\n
“We are already experiencing the impacts of climate change, and this is expected to become more noticeable over time.<\/p>\n
“The Painkalac Creek study and other projects \u2014 including the Anglesea and Aireys Inlet Stormwater Flood Study \u2014 are helping us understand future climate impacts and assess options to help manage them.”<\/p>\n
To give the community an opportunity to learn more about the new data, the shire will host a community event at Aireys Inlet Hall this evening (Friday, October 17) between 3pm and 7pm.<\/p>\n
Interested people can drop in at any time to speak with council staff and representatives from the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority and the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority.<\/p>\n
“We’re committed to sharing information with residents, both current and future, about flood risk and involving them along the way, before any decisions are made in the years ahead,” Cr Bodsworth said.<\/p>\n
“The community open house is another opportunity for people to seek further information, ask questions and to chat with other locals about the study findings.<\/p>\n
“If you can’t make it to the October 17 event, our emergency management team is happy to chat over the phone.”<\/p>\n
He thanked the residents who provided feedback earlier this year about what they value most about Painkalac Creek and their flood concerns.<\/p>\n
These insights will help shape mitigation options, which are expected to be released to the public in 2026.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
MORE than 100 Aireys Inlet properties could be at risk of inundation from the Painkalac Creek by 2100, a new flood risk study has revealed. The flood mitigation and adaption study, undertaken by the Surf Coast Shire, found that a changing climate, with more unpredictable storms and rainfall, is expected to increase flood risks for […]<\/p>\n