Central Coast Council is considering the best way to manage flooding in the Wyong River catchment area and is calling on residents and businesses to share their experiences so a permanent floodplain management plan can be put in place.

The catchment area includes a number of residential, industrial and commercial areas including Wyong, Tacoma, Mardi, Yarramalong, Cedar Brush Creek and Dooralong as well as the Tuggerah Straight Industrial area.

Council’s Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said the ultimate aim of the management plan is to reduce the impact of flooding in the local community.

“The community is more aware than ever of the risk of flooding as we have experienced a number of east coast lows in recent times,” Mr Reynolds said.

“By understanding the potential risks of flooding in the area, we can better prepare the community to minimize flood damage and avoid possible loss of life.

“Flooding can place a significant financial burden on the community so we must be proactive in understanding the impacts in key catchment areas such as Wyong River.

“I urge all residents and businesses in this area to share their experiences so we can put the right plan in place to protect the community from future flooding.”

A community information session will be held at Council’s Wyong Office on Tuesday 4 October from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.  Staff and Council’s consultants will be available to answer any questions about the study and flooding issues in the catchment area more generally.

Local residents and businesses in the area will receive a questionnaire in the mail shortly or can share their experiences online at www.wyongriver.fprms.com.au