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BoM strengthens Toowoomba’s flood safety with 25 new gauges

What’s Happening?

The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) is set to acquire and manage up to 25 flood gauges across the Toowoomba Region, a strategic step in strengthening Queensland’s flood warning infrastructure.

This acquisition is part of the Flood Warning Infrastructure Network Program aimed at bolstering the efficiency and resilience of the state’s flood warning system.

Why it Matters

Flooding is a critical concern across the Toowoomba Region, with numerous rainfall and water level gauges already in operation to monitor at-risk areas.

The acquisition will relieve Toowoomba Regional Council of certain maintenance burdens, as well as integrate these assets into a broader, federally supported network. This initiative aligns with broader goals of providing reliable and timely warnings, potentially saving lives and reducing damage.

By the Numbers

  • Queensland’s flood warning network consists of more than 3,300 rainfall and river gauges managed by over 60 entities, including government and private sector partners.
  • Toowoomba Regional Council currently maintains 43 gauges in flood-prone areas such as Oakey, Yarraman, and the Centenary Bridge at Gore Highway.
  • Since 2017, the Queensland Reconstruction Authority has channelled over $24.3 million into flood warning infrastructure through state and federal programs.

Zoom in

Mayor Geoff McDonald has highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Council, the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, and BoM, which engaged in months of consultations to identify which gauges would most benefit the upgraded flood warning network.

Mayor McDonald stressed the importance of readiness, saying, “All levels of government are working together to make the region safer and ensure we are better prepared for the natural disasters we will inevitably face in the years ahead.”

He further noted the life-saving potential of the improved network: “A strong, reliable flood warning network is the best protection against rising flood waters and will give people downstream advance warning which is always welcomed.

These improvements may save lives in the future.”

The acquisition not only improves flood safety but also supports the region’s financial resilience.

What They Said

Mayor McDonald welcomed the reduced maintenance costs resulting from this handover to BoM, stating, “The maintenance costs of flood gauges are significant, and the Federal Government has recognised this challenge for local Councils.

By moving to incorporate this infrastructure into a better national network, they are also making it more cost-efficient to maintain, which is a win-win for all involved.”

Local Impact

The BoM’s investment will ease the financial responsibility on the Toowoomba Regional Council while ensuring ongoing management and maintenance of critical flood warning systems.

This collective effort is a proactive measure to safeguard Toowoomba Region’s residents and infrastructure, enhancing preparedness against Queensland’s recurring flood risks.

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