New pump bolsters Murwillumbah flood defences

A NEW stormwater pump station will boost Murwillumbah’s flood protection as part of ongoing efforts to reduce the impact of severe weather.

Completed in February, the station was built near Brothers Leagues Club by Tweed Shire Council with funding support from the National Emergency Management Agency, the NSW Reconstruction Authority and the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

The two pumps, each standing about two metres tall, can move almost 1,000 litres of stormwater per second at full speed. They were tested during Ex‑Tropical Cyclone Alfred, when power outages limited their use but they still helped reduce damage to nearby properties.

A fallen tree during the storm damaged fencing and a shelter at the site, delaying a planned opening. Repairs have been completed and the site is now accessible to the public.

Tweed Shire Council deputy mayor Meredith Dennis said the new pumps were a vital part of the council’s broader flood strategy.

“As the climate changes, it’s become apparent that we will never stop flooding from occurring, but we can put measures in place to reduce its impact and ensure that life can get back to normal faster after a flood event,” she said.

The project received more than $1.1 million from the Australian Government as part of the $150 million Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program, which is funding flood mitigation and resilience projects across seven council areas.

Member for Lismore and Minister for Recovery and the North Coast Janelle Saffin said the station would strengthen community confidence.

“This is the kind of infrastructure we need to help protect our community. It makes us more resilient and gives people the confidence to stay and invest in our community,” she said.