As part of stage one of the process, council engaged specialist consultant engineers, JACOBS in 2019 to undertake a flood study of the Lower Macleay.

The study evaluated an area spanning from Frederickton to South West Rocks to Stuarts Point in the north and Crescent Head in the south.

Using current best practice flood modelling techniques, the study identified flood behaviour whilst providing feasible mitigation options.

Council's Flood and Drainage Engineer, Jacob Franklin, said the study was adopted by council in December 2019 following input from the Floodplain Risk Management Committee and the wider community.

"The study is part of a five-stage process in revising a plan of management for the floodplain, with Council now focusing on stages two and three," he said.

"Council will soon engage a consultant to assist in developing the plan, which will contain a list of recommended actions to be implemented. This will allow council to apply for state or federal grant funding to complete the listed actions."

Mr Franklin said council will be engaging with the community at upcoming workshops and information sessions.

From March, council will be consulting with the community about how these stages are progressing and asking for feedback from residents, particularly those who live in the Lower Macleay. The updated Floodplain Risk Management Plan is expected to be completed by early 2021. For more information go to: www.kempsey.nsw.gov.au/floodplain

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