Federal agriculture and Emergency Management Minister Murray Watt has had a first-hand look at the flood situation in Mildura.
He says the city is facing its worst floods in nearly sixty years with more to come while being shown the impact on local crops, tourism and roads.
He says the Federal Government will support Sunraysia as it recovers from the floods, and will be talking to PM Anthony Albanese about his trip.
The Prime Minister bypassed Mildura last week, instead inspecting flood preparedness in South Australia.
The Minister says the government is already provided funding in disaster recovery assistance, but will keep listening to locals about what is needed.
Meanwhile, several warnings remain in place:
Emergency Warning – Not Safe to Return
Parts of Mildura, Nichols Point and Bruces Bend, Karadoc on the riverside of Cootamundra Ave and the lower reaches of Edey Rd near the river and Iraak.
Advice – Stay Informed – Yelta.
Water is flowing into the low lying areas around the Yelta Grain Corp facility.
Northern end of Meridian Road and Bunker Road are closed.
Watch and Act – Prepare to Evacuate
Communities close to the Murray River between Colignan, Nangiloc and north to Lambert Island, and Boeill Creek.
Watch and Act – Avoid the Flooded Area
Liparoo to the South Australian border.
DO NOT PASS THROUGH ROAD CLOSED SIGNS.
People who disobey road closure signs may face a fine of up to $185.
Victoria Police are patrolling the area, which is accessible to local residents only.
River peaks:
Murray River:
At Euston peaked on Friday and is falling slowly, with moderate flooding. The Murray River at Euston may remain above the moderate flood level until late December, and then fall below the minor flood level around mid-January.
At Mildura Weir the level may peak late this week, (14-16 December). A prolonged peak is possible through to late December, with moderate flooding.
At Wentworth the level may peak this weekend (17-19 December). A prolonged peak is possible through to early January, with major flooding.
Darling River:
Menindee is remaining steady, with moderate flooding. The peak is likely to remain until at least mid-January, with moderate flooding.
At Pooncarie the river level may peak tomorrow with minor flooding.
At Burtundy the river may reach a peak late December with major flooding.
To stay updated:
https://www.mildura.vic.gov.au/Community/Flood-Updates-and-Advice
https://www.emergency.vic.gov.au/
Image: David Burrows (River 1467)
