Central Highlands Regional Council acts proactively to reduce the impacts of disaster events such as floods, bushfires, chemical spills, and other hazards.
The Disaster Management Act 2003 sets out the responsibilities of local government authorities during disasters.
The Central Highlands Regional Council has an overarching Local Disaster Management Group to manage and coordinate the resources and activities required to assist the community respond to and recover from disasters. This Group is chaired by the Mayor.
The Local Disaster Management Group is supported by four satellite groups based in Emerald, Capella, Blackwater and Springsure.
Council has prepared a Disaster Management Plan and Operational Plans to guide their actions in the event of a disaster, which cover the following disaster phases: -
- Preparedness
- Response
- Recovery
Central Highlands Regional Council also employs an Emergency Management Coordinator to assist in the coordination of planning, community education, staff training and disaster management. The Emergency Management Coordinator also provides support for the local SES/ESU units across the Central Highlands.
Flood Reports and Information Developed in 2011
Council has initiated a number of studies, reports and information to assist in the early warning, mitigation and planning for future flood events. These will be provided to the community as they are developed.
Resupplying Isolated Communities and Properties
For a copy of the brochure detailing how Council works with the State to deliver essential supplies to isolated communities and properties, please click here.
Click here for the Local Disaster Management Plan (endorsed Dec 2011)
Click here for the Disaster Recovery Booklet
Click here for the Form to register people who may require extra support during a disaster or evacuation .
Click here for Related Links
Click here for Useful Phone Numbers
Flood Smart Flood Ready This guide was prepared in 2011 and reviewed in 2012 to help Emerald residents interpret river height readings during a flood, so businesses and residents can better understand and prepare for the potential impacts of flooding.
C and R Consulting were commissioned by Council to undertake a detailed flood analysis and evaluation study of the upper Nogoa River catchment above the Fairbairn Dam and including the dam spillway to downstream of the Emerald township flood plain. These reports were released in December 2011 and include a number of recommendations that Council will be working with other key agencies to analyse. These reports may be viewed here.
Report 1 Upper Catchment
Report 2 Emerald Township
