MEDIA RELEASE
18 October 2016
Eleanor Patterson
Director, Tasmanian Flood Recovery Taskforce
Survey to fix flood-damaged rivers really takes off
Waterway management experts got a bird’s eye view of Tasmania today as part of a major study into fixing
the State’s flood-damaged rivers after the June floods.
The flight was part of an ongoing study commissioned by the Tasmanian Government to ensure the long
term recovery of Tasmania’s rivers in the wake of the devastating floods across Tasmania in June and July.
Tasmanian Flood Recovery Taskforce Director, Eleanor Patterson, who was on the flight, said the river
systems were the lifeblood of our farms and rural communities.
“That’s why the Tasmanian Government commissioned this study into what needs to be done to
rehabilitate rivers, which suffered significant damage, including major erosion and changes to river courses.
“This survey is one more step in the process of rebuilding and strengthening flood-affected communities
across Tasmania.”
The study is being led by waterway experts Alluvium in conjunction with the Department of Primary
Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE) and the Tasmanian Flood Recovery Taskforce.
The study will determine what capital works will be supported to assist in stabilisation, remediation and
future flood mitigation measures.
Alluvium Director, Ross Hardie, said the flight was a chance to confirm any changes to the river system
following extensive recent inspections from the ground.
Ross, who has two decades’ experience in waterway management, said the survey would help Alluvium and
State Government employees to produce a report into the State’s rivers.
“That report will detail the impacts of the floods and provide advice on recovery options and
recommendations for future resilience of river systems in Tasmania.”
DPIPWE Manager, Natural Values Conservation, Peter Voller, said the June flooding had caused widespread
damage to river banks and farm land across Tasmania.
“Seeing the overall catchment from the air was a great chance to understand better the impacts of the
floods and the possible causes of the damage,” Mr Voller said.
The following areas are included in the study: Mersey and Dasher river system, the Leven River, the Inglis
and Flowerdale catchments, the Lobster Rivulet, the Blackwood Creek, and other catchments including St
Georges, Ouse, Lake, Meander, North Esk, and South Esk.
-----------------Contact: Leigh Arnold
Phone: 0408 351 526
Tasmanian Flood Recovery Taskforce