Kyabram was hit hard by rain, with massive falls recorded.
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Vandalism to a stormwater pump and blocked gutters contributed to what Kyabram SES deputy controller Renee Webb described as “one of the worst (instances of) flooding that Ky has seen”.
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The flash flooding left the town’s streets underwater and prompted 64 SES call-outs after 101.8mm of rain fell between 9am on Sunday, March 1 and 9am on Tuesday, March 3.
Campaspe Shire Council manager engineering Zac Fitzpatrick confirmed that while the three electric stormwater pumps worked effectively during the storm, the sole diesel pump was vandalised days before the rainfall hit.
“During the recent storm event in Kyabram, the Lake Rd drainage basin relied on its pumps to transfer storm water to the Fauna Park Lakes,” Mr Fitzpatrick said.
“The three electric pumps performed reliably throughout the rainfall, successfully handling the increased water flow.”
Mr Fitzpatrick said the pumps, which are inspected every two months, were operating effectively during an inspection on January 6, and again on February 24.
However, maintenance crews discovered on March 2 that the diesel pump had been vandalised.
“The fuel tank had been emptied and batteries removed,” Mr Fitzpatrick said.
Mechanics faced delays while repairing the diesel pump when additional parts unexpectedly failed, but the pump was restored to full operation by Tuesday morning.
Speaking with the Free Press, Mrs Webb said maintenance comes down to community and everybody working together, as well as the council.
“I think we need a lot of education, you know, about cleaning your own gutters and cleaning your downpipes and things like that as well,” Mrs Webb said.
Mrs Webb said residents could help keep debris out of storm systems by putting any leaves, debris or grass clippings into green waste bins.
Mr Fitzpatrick said pipe-cleaning works were being scheduled for affected areas, and crews were monitoring flood-prone locations to address blockages or issues.
“Council is increasing how often the roads are swept and is actively pumping away pooled water on Breen Ave to help lower water levels.”
Council crews are working to pump away pooled water.
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Council crews are also inspecting and clearing drainage pits and grates along with stormwater infrastructure to identify any faults or restrictions causing water to pool.
Community members can learn more from the SES about maintaining property to reduce the risk of flood and storm damage at the Community Fun Day at the IGA on Saturday, March 14, from 10.30am to 12.30pm.
