Collaborative approach to flood recovery

Published on 27 January 2023

Gannawarra Shire Council is undertaking a collaborative approach to assist the community recover from the October-December 2022 floods, uniting with partner agencies, organisations and government departments to form a Gannawarra Municipal Recovery Committee.

The committee, which has been meeting since late 2022, will oversee all aspects of work required to assist the Gannawarra’s recovery from the floods.

“The October-December 2022 floods have impacted residents in many ways, ranging from physical damage to roads, bridges, levees and residential dwellings to financial hardship,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.

“Council has a legislated role in assisting the community respond to and recover from any emergency event, and we are prepared to support our residents, no matter how long the recovery process takes.”

The Gannawarra Municipal Recovery Committee’s main task will be to develop and implement the Municipal Recovery Action Plan, which will list numerous actions that will ensure recovery efforts are undertaken in a coordinated, effective and timely manner.

“To assist with this process, three subcommittees have been formed, focusing on wellbeing and social recovery, built and natural environment, and agricultural and economic development,” Mr Rollinson said.

“Planning is also underway to form a Community Recovery Committee, whose role will be to promote and support community-led recovery efforts. The Community Recovery Committee will be made up of community representatives from across the flood impacted areas of the municipality.”

Council will keep residents updated regarding flood recovery efforts via its website, Gannawarra News and Gannawarra Connect publications and Facebook page.

For more information regarding flood recovery and support following the October-December 2022 floods, please visit www.gsc.vic.gov.au/floods