At the general meeting 17 October I will be moving a motion that Council resolves as follows:
1. To request a schedule of works and timeframe for clearing of watercourses of flood debris to reduce the likelihood of flooding at:
a. Weinam Creek at Cliftonville Place Park and Moores Road to the mouth of the creek.
b. Serpentine Creek from 62-66 Serpentine Creek Road to mouth of the creek.
c. Pitt Street Wetlands from Salisbury Road and Hamilton Street to mouth of the watercourse.
2. To bring a report to the General Meeting of Council scheduled 10 December2025.
Background
During the last rain event there was flooding, water not flowing and remaining pooled due to blockages arising from flood debris and silt build up at:
• Weinam Creek at Cliftonville Place Park and Moores Road to the mouth of the creek.
• Serpentine Creek from 62-66 Serpentine Creek Road to the mouth of the creek.
• Pitt Street Wetlands from Salisbury Road and Hamilton Steet to the mouth of the watercourse.
Walking these areas there was evidence of watercourses being blocked through fallen branches and flood debris. These blockages have resulted in a buildup of water higher than flood forecasts and placing properties at risk. These watercourses provide drainage for surrounding residential areas and are not draining as intended, with water remaining pooled even at low tied when the mouth of the watercourses is dry.
Complaints and requests have been received from the community and local councillors.
While recognising some site constraints, including access and environmental, a plan and timeframe for works is required to ensure resources are allocated and works undertaken as soon as possible, noting higher than average rainfall is predicted for this summer (see Australian climate outlooks).