Residents who live along the 400 square kilometres of Wallis and Swamp-Fishery creeks made their views clear in a study commissioned by Maitland and Cessnock councils. They shared their thoughts on how flooding could be better managed, how to reduce floodwater levels and prevent isolation similar to that experienced in the 2015 Super Storm.

The Draft Wallis and Swamp-Fishery Creek Flood Study is on exhibition at Cessnock City Council. The Maitland’s exhibition has closed. The document, a comprehensive technical investigation of flood behaviour for a range of flood events, is the first stage in the floodplain management process.

A total of 191 residents responded to a survey distributed by the councils with 97% aware of flooding issues in the catchment. Sixty six respondents’ properties had been affected by flooding of which 16 were flooded above floor level. They said the 2015 Super Storm was the biggest event they had witnessed. While the 2007 Pasha Bulka storm also affected them, it was not as severe as the Super Storm.

Most landowners were acutely aware of flood risks and said they were prepared for flood events and the potential for isolation. “Even with the knowledge and preparedness some were caught off guard by rapidly rising floodwaters in April 2015 which prevented them from buying additional supplies or implementing food plans in time,” the draft report said.

Residents believe both the Testers Hollow bridge upgrade and raising of Cessnock Road would improve access during floods. Many were concerned about a lack of creek and flood gate maintenance and believe clearing the creek of debris would help water drain faster. 

“Some residents are concerned about future development in areas that are isolated and blamed the increased rate of rise in flood waters to be a result of residential developments in areas such as Gillieston Heights,” the draft study said. “They are concerned this will be dangerous to new residents and stretch community and emergency services resources during flood events.”

 Some residents suggested that creating a further access road to Maitland will prevent many being isolated. In April 2015 the town was isolated for more than a week and resulted in the death of a driver whose car was washed off Cessnock Road at Mt Dee.

While flooding in the lower Wallis Creek catchment can occur in large Hunter River flood events, the focus of the study is on flooding resulting from run-off within the Swamp–Fishery and Wallis creeks catchment. 

Cessnock Mayor Cr Bob Pynsent said compiling the document was X a positive step forward. “They allow us to plan for the future and better understand flood waters in the area.”