FAQs

We make computer models and maps that show where it could flood and by how much. From time to time, these models are reviewed and predicted levels may change. The reasons why can include:

• New floods occur, providing additional data to fine-tune the model.
• More advanced computer models or methods for estimating flood levels become available.
• Changes in the catchment, such as flood mitigation works or new developments.
• Changes in policy.

 After we update flood models, we also need to update our understanding of what the risks/damages from floods might be. We then need to update our plan for mitigating (reducing) these. This is what a floodplain risk management study and plan does. It has a prioritised plan of recommended measures to best address existing and future flood problems in the catchment. It also includes guidelines for all future developments in the area. 

Installing more ‘debris control structures’
Debris control structures (DCS) are designed to protect culverts and bridges from becoming blocked. The FRMSP has recommended to install 11 new DCS across the catchment. This photo shows an example of a culvert and DCS:

Upgrading culverts beneath Memorial Drive (FM3)
There are two sets of box culverts (large, square-shaped stormwater pipes) built under Memorial Drive in Fairy Meadow that allow water to flow underneath the road after heavy rain. If the rain is heavy enough, floodwaters can build up along the western side of the road and flood many properties. The FRMSP has recommended to increase the size of the culverts to reduce flooding impact. Memorial Drive is owned by Transport for NSW. If they support it, this option would require concept design, detailed design and a number of approvals before going ahead. The map included with this FAQ shows the locations of these culverts.

Upgrading culverts near College Place (FM5)  
The flood risk at College Place, Gwynneville could be reduced by increasing the size of the existing box culverts under University Avenue. The FRMSP has recommended that further investigation of this option be done to better understand its costs and benefits.

Keiraville Public School floodway (FM6)
This option would involve changing the landform in the east of the Keiraville Public School grounds to redirect flows to the south. This may require the removal of a small number of trees. While this would help protect properties to the east, it could make flooding worse to the south. The FRMSP has recommended that further investigation of this option be done to improve the design and better understand its costs and benefits. 

McMahon Street detention basin (FM7) 
The construction of a detention basin to temporarily store water during floods at McMahon Street in Fairy Meadow would help reduce flooding of a number of properties downstream. This option was recommended as part of a previous FRMSP in 2010 and is currently undergoing a separate investigation and design process. Further approvals and community input would be needed before we could go ahead with the work. 

Foothills Road basin outlet modification (FM4) 
The modification of existing outlet structure would comprise addition of an orifice plate to provide additional storage at the basin and reduce flood level at downstream. 

We have historical flood level records and/or our completed flood studies for some properties, but not all. Please contact our Customer Service team on (02) 4227 7111 to find out what’s available for your property.

After we’ve completed the Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan, more work will be done to develop concepts and detailed designs for the recommended stormwater structures. We’ll take these out to the community to seek further input before the designs are completed.

At the end of the engagement period, we read and consider all feedback. We write a report about the engagement and what we heard. It is provided to the project team and Central Floodplain Committee for consideration in making a decision.

• Online  www.our.wollongong.nsw.gov.au                           
• Email    engagement@wollongong.nsw.gov.au                                
• Write    Locked Bag 8821, Wollongong DC 2500                
• Phone   (02) 4227 7111                                      
• Drop-in Information Session (no presentation)
  When: Tuesday 19 September 2023 - drop in anytime between 3:30-6:30pm
  Where: Fairy Meadow Community Centre - Guest Park, Princes Highway, Fairy Meadow.      

If you’re d/Deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment, you can contact us through the National Relay Service. If you need an interpreter, you can contact us through the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131450. You’ll need to provide our phone number 02 4227 7111 for either service.