KIAMA / SHELLHARBOUR CITY LOCAL FLOOD PLAN A SUB-PLAN … · 2016. 12. 13. · Flood Plan . A plan that deals specifically with flooding and is a sub-plan of a Disaster Plan. Flood

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Kiama / Shellharbour City Local Flood Plan, June 2008

KIAMA / SHELLHARBOUR CITY LOCAL FLOOD PLAN

A SUB-PLAN OF THE KIAMA / SHELLHARBOUR CITY LOCAL

DISASTER PLAN (DISPLAN)

Chair, Local Emergency Management Committee

Shellharbour SES Local Controller

Kiama SES Local Controller

JUNE 2008 EDITION

TO BE REVIEWED NO LATER THAN JUNE 2011

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CONTENTS DISTRIBUTION LIST .................................................................................................................................... v

AMENDMENT LIST...................................................................................................................................... vi

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS........................................................................................................................ vii

GLOSSARY ................................................................................................................................................... viii

PART 1 - INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................... 1 1.1 Purpose ............................................................................................................................................... 1 1.2 Authority............................................................................................................................................. 1 1.3 Area Covered by the Plan ................................................................................................................... 1 1.4 Description of Flooding and its Effects .............................................................................................. 2

PART 2 - RESPONSIBILITIES...................................................................................................................... 3 2.1 General ............................................................................................................................................... 3 2.2 SES Local Controllers. ....................................................................................................................... 3 2.3 SES Local Operations Controller ....................................................................................................... 3 2.4 SES Unit Members: ............................................................................................................................ 5 2.5 Shellharbour City and Kiama Municipal Council Local Emergency Management Officer: .............. 6 2.6 Shellharbour City and Kiama Municipal Council Local Emergency Operations Controller:............. 6 2.7 Shellharbour City Council and Kiama Municipal Council: ................................................................ 6 2.8 Ambulance Service of NSW - Kiama, Warilla:.................................................................................. 7 2.9 Australian Volunteer Coast Guard (AVCG):...................................................................................... 7 2.10 Bureau of Meteorology (BoM):.......................................................................................................... 8 2.11 Caravan Park Proprietors – As listed in Annex G : ............................................................................ 8 2.12 Childcare Centres and Preschools....................................................................................................... 8 2.13 Citizens’ Radio Emergency Service Teams (CREST) / Wireless Institute Civil Emergency Network

(WICEN): .......................................................................................................................................... 8 2.14 Department of Community Services (DoCS): .................................................................................... 8 2.15 Department of Environment & Climate Change (DECC): ................................................................. 9 2.16 Department of Primary Industries - Sydney & South East Region:.................................................... 9 2.17 Electricity Provider -Integral: ............................................................................................................. 9 2.18 NSW Fire Brigades - Albion Park Rail, Kiama, Shellharbour: .......................................................... 9 2.19 NSW Police Force - Lake Illawarra LAC:........................................................................................ 10 2.20 Rail Transport Provider - Railcorp: .................................................................................................. 10 2.21 Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA): ................................................................................................ 10 2.22 Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol (RVCP): ......................................................................................... 10 2.23 Rural Fire Service (RFS), Illawarra Team:....................................................................................... 10 2.24 School Administration Offices (Incl. Catholic Education Office, Dept. of Education & Training &

Private Schools)............................................................................................................................... 11 2.25 Service and Sporting Clubs: ............................................................................................................. 11 2.26 Telecommunications Providers – Telstra, Optus: ............................................................................. 12 2.27 Transport Services Coordinator:....................................................................................................... 12 2.28 Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) – South Coast Squad:........................................................... 12

PART 3 - PREPAREDNESS ......................................................................................................................... 13 3.1 Maintenance of This Plan ................................................................................................................. 13 3.2 Floodplain and Coastal Risk Management ....................................................................................... 13 3.3 Development of Flood Intelligence .................................................................................................. 13 3.4 Development of Warning Systems ................................................................................................... 14 3.5 Public Education............................................................................................................................... 14 3.6 Training ............................................................................................................................................ 15 3.7 Resources.......................................................................................................................................... 15

PART 4 - RESPONSE.................................................................................................................................... 16 4.1 Concept of Operations ...................................................................................................................... 16 4.2 Control .............................................................................................................................................. 17 4.3 Out of Area Assistance ..................................................................................................................... 17 4.4 Operations Centres ........................................................................................................................... 17 4.5 Liaison .............................................................................................................................................. 17

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4.6 Communications............................................................................................................................... 18 4.7 Start of Response Operations............................................................................................................ 18 4.8 Flood Intelligence ............................................................................................................................. 19 4.9 Preliminary Deployments ................................................................................................................. 20 4.10 Warnings........................................................................................................................................... 20 4.11 Information ....................................................................................................................................... 21 4.12 Road Control..................................................................................................................................... 22 4.13 Traffic Control. ................................................................................................................................. 22 4.14 Flood Rescue .................................................................................................................................... 22 4.15 Evacuations....................................................................................................................................... 22 4.16 Essential Services ............................................................................................................................. 22 4.17 Logistics ........................................................................................................................................... 23 4.18 Aircraft Management........................................................................................................................ 23 4.19 Resupply of Isolated Towns and Villages ........................................................................................ 23 4.20 Resupply of Isolated Properties ........................................................................................................ 24 4.21 Stranded Travellers........................................................................................................................... 24 4.22 All Clear ........................................................................................................................................... 24

PART 5 - RECOVERY .................................................................................................................................. 25 5.1 Welfare ............................................................................................................................................. 25 5.2 Recovery Coordination..................................................................................................................... 25 5.3 Arrangements for Debriefs / After Action Reviews ......................................................................... 25

ANNEX A - THE FLOOD THREAT ......................................................................................................... A-1 Landforms and River System(s) ................................................................................................................. A-1 Storage Dams and Reservoirs..................................................................................................................... A-1 Weather Systems and Flooding .................................................................................................................. A-2 Flood Mitigation Systems........................................................................................................................... A-3 Extreme Flooding ....................................................................................................................................... A-3 Storm Surges .............................................................................................................................................. A-3 Tsunami ...................................................................................................................................................... A-4

ANNEX B - EFFECTS OF FLOODING ON THE SHELLHARBOUR C OMMUNITY...................... B-1 Community Profile ..................................................................................................................................... B-1 Characteristics of Flooding......................................................................................................................... B-1 Specific Risk Areas .................................................................................................................................... B-2 Road Closures............................................................................................................................................. B-5 Effects on Utilities and Infrastructure......................................................................................................... B-5

ANNEX C - EFFECTS OF FLOODING ON THE KIAMA COMMUNIT Y......................................... C-1 Community Profile ..................................................................................................................................... C-1 Specific Risk Areas .................................................................................................................................... C-1 Road Closures............................................................................................................................................. C-2

ANNEX D - GAUGES MONITORED BY THE KIAMA / SHELLHARB OUR SES LOCAL HEADQUARTERS ...................................................................................................................................... D-1

ANNEX E - DISSEMINATION OF SES FLOOD BULLETINS..... ........................................................ E-1

ANNEX F - TEMPLATE EVACUATION WARNING MESSAGE FOR [ ENTER NAME OF AREA]... ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..F-1

ANNEX G - ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE EVACUATION OF CARAVA N PARKS AND THE RELOCATION OF CARAVANS...............................................................................................................G-1

General…….. ............................................................................................................................................. G-1 Caravan Parks............................................................................................................................................. G-1 Advising Procedures................................................................................................................................... G-1 Evacuation of Occupants and Relocation of Vans...................................................................................... G-2 Return of Occupants and Vans ................................................................................................................... G-3

ANNEX H - EVACUATION ARRANGEMENTS FOR GENERAL EVACU ATIONS........................H-1 Background................................................................................................................................................. H-1 Arrangements .............................................................................................................................................H-1

ANNEX I - MANAGEMENT OF COASTAL EROSION / INUNDATIO N............................................ I-1

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ANNEX J - FLOOD INTELLIGENCE COLLECTION SHEET...... .......................................................J-1

MAP 1 - SHELLHARBOUR LGA & RIVER BASIN ............. ......................................................................I

MAP 2 - KIAMA LGA & RIVER BASIN.................... ................................................................................. II

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DISTRIBUTION LIST Shellharbour SES Local Controller .......................................................................................1 Kiama SES Local Controller .................................................................................................1 Illawarra South Coast SES Region Headquarters..................................................................1 NSW SES State Headquarters ...............................................................................................1 Shellharbour City Council Local Emergency Operations Controller ....................................1 Shellharbour City Council Local Emergency Management Committee Members ...............4 Shellharbour City Council Local Emergency Management Officer......................................1 Shellharbour City Council Local Emergency Operations Centre..........................................1 Shellharbour City Council Mayor..........................................................................................1 Shellharbour City Council General Manager ........................................................................1 Shellharbour City Council Technical Services Department ..................................................1 Kiama Municipal Council Local Emergency Operations Controller ....................................1 Kiama Municipal Council Local Emergency Management Committee Members................4 Kiama Municipal Council Local Emergency Management Officer ......................................1 Kiama Municipal Council Local Emergency Operations Centre ..........................................1 Kiama Municipal Council Mayor ..........................................................................................1 Kiama Municipal Council General Manager.........................................................................1 Kiama Municipal Council Technical Services Department...................................................1 NSW Police Force - Lake Illawarra Local Area Command ..................................................1 NSW Fire Brigades - Albion Park Rail, Kiama & Shellharbour ................................. 1 each Rural Fire Service - Illawarra Team ......................................................................................1 Ambulance Service of NSW - Kiama & Warilla......................................................... 1 each Volunteer Rescue Association - South Coast Rescue Squad.................................................1 Australian Volunteer Coast Guard.........................................................................................1 Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol .............................................................................................1 Integral ...................................................................................................................................1 Telstra ....................................................................................................................................1 Department of Community Services - Southern....................................................................1 Department of Environment & Climate Change ...................................................................1 Department of Primary Industries - Sydney & South East Region .......................................1 Roads and Traffic Authority - Albion Park ...........................................................................1 Evacuation Centres ...................................................................................................... 1 each Hospitals ...................................................................................................................... 1 each Schools......................................................................................................................... 1 each Council Libraries ......................................................................................................... 1 each Spare ......................................................................................................................................1

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AMENDMENT LIST Suggestions for amendments to this plan should be forwarded to:

The Local Controller Shellharbour State Emergency Service PO Box 195, ALBION PARK NSW 2527 and The Local Controller Kiama State Emergency Service PO Box 546, KIAMA NSW 2533

Amendments promulgated in the amendments list below have been entered in this plan.

Amendment List Number

Date Amendment Entered By

Date

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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS The following abbreviations have been used in this plan: AEP Annual Exceedance Probability

AHD Australian Height Datum

ARI Average Recurrence Interval (Years)

AWRC Australian Water Resources Council

BoM Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology

CBD Central Business District

Displan Disaster Plan

DECC Department of Environment & Climate Change

DoCS Department of Community Services

DVR Disaster Victim Registration

DWE Department of Water and Energy

GIS Geographic Information System

GRN Government Radio Network

HF High Frequency

NSWFB New South Wales Fire Brigades

PMF Probable Maximum Flood

PMR Private Mobile Radio

PMP Probable Maximum Precipitations

PSTN Public Switched Telephone Network

RFS Rural Fire Service

RTA Roads and Traffic Authority

SES State Emergency Service

SEWS Standard Emergency Warning Signal

UHF Ultra High Frequency

VHF Very High Frequency

VRA Volunteer Rescue Association

WICEN Wireless Institute Civil Emergency Network

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GLOSSARY Annual Exceedance Probability (AEP). The chance of a flood of a given or larger size occurring in any one year, usually expressed as a percentage. For example, if a peak flood level (height) has an AEP of 5%, there is a 5% chance (that is, a one-in-20 chance) of such a level or higher occurring in any one year (see also Average Recurrence Interval). Assistance Animal. A guide dog, a hearing assistance dog or any other animal trained to assist a person to alleviate the effect of a disability (Refer to Section 9 of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992). Australian Height Datum (AHD) . A common national surface level datum approximately corresponding to mean sea level. Average Recurrence Interval (ARI). The long-term average number of years between the occurrence of a flood as big as, or larger than, the selected event. For example, floods reaching a height as great as, or greater than, the 20 year ARI flood event will occur on average once every 20 years. Catchment (river basin). The land area draining through the main stream, as well as tributary streams, to a particular site. It always relates to an area above a specific location. Design flood (or flood standard). A flood of specified magnitude that is adopted for planning purposes. Selections should be based on an understanding of flood behaviour and the associated flood risk, and take account of social, economic and environmental considerations. There may be several design floods for an individual area. Essential services. Those services, often provided by local government authorities, that are considered essential to the life of organised communities. Such services include power, lighting, water, gas, sewerage and sanitation clearance. Flash flooding. Flooding which is sudden and often unexpected because it is caused by sudden local or nearby heavy rainfall. It is sometimes defined as flooding which occurs within six hours of the rain that causes it. Flood. Relatively high water level which overtops the natural or artificial banks in any part of a stream, river, estuary, lake or dam, and/or local overland flooding associated with drainage before entering a watercourse, and/or coastal inundation resulting from super-elevated sea levels and/or waves overtopping coastline defences. Flood classifications. Locally defined flood levels used in flood warnings to give an indication of the severity of flooding (minor, moderate or major) expected. These levels are used by the State Emergency Service and the Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology in flood bulletins and flood warnings. Flood intelligence. The product of collecting, collating, analysing and interpreting flood-related data to produce meaningful information (intelligence) to allow for the timely preparation, planning and warning for and response to a flood.

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Flood liable land. Land susceptible to flooding by the Probable Maximum Flood. (PMF) event. This term also describes the maximum extent of a floodplain which is an area of a river valley, adjacent to the river channel, which is subject to inundation in floods up to this event. Flood of record. Maximum observed historical flood. Flood Plan. A plan that deals specifically with flooding and is a sub-plan of a Disaster Plan. Flood plans describe agreed roles, responsibilities, functions, actions and management arrangements for the conduct of flood operations and for preparing for them. Floodplain Management Plan. A plan developed in accordance with the principles and guidelines in the New South Wales Floodplain Development Manual. Such a plan usually includes both written and diagrammatic information describing how particular areas of flood prone land can be used and managed to achieve defined objectives. Floodway. An area where a significant volume of water flows during floods. Such areas are often aligned with obvious naturally-defined channels and are areas that, if partially blocked, would cause a significant redistribution of flood flow which may in turn adversely affect other areas. They are often, but not necessarily, the areas of deeper flow or the areas where higher velocities occur. Flood Watch. A Flood Watch is a notification of the potential for a flood to occur as a result of a developing weather situation and consists of short generalised statements about the developing weather including forecast rainfall totals, description of catchment conditions and indicates streams at risk. The BoM will also attempt to estimate the magnitude of likely flooding in terms of the adopted flood classifications. Flood Watches are normally issued 24 to 36 hours in advance of likely flooding. Flood watches are issued on a catchment wide basis. Flood Warning. A Flood Warning is a gauge specific forecast of actual or imminent flooding. Flood Warnings specify the river valley, the locations expected to be flooded, the likely severity of flooding and when it will occur. Geographic Information System (GIS). A computerised database for the capture, storage, analysis and display of locationally defined information. commonly, a GIS portrays a portion of the earth’s surface in the form of a map on which this information is overlaid. Local overland flooding. Inundation by local runoff rather than overbank discharge from a stream, river, estuary, lake or dam. Major flooding . Flooding which causes inundation of extensive rural areas, with properties, villages and towns isolated and/or appreciable urban areas flooded. Minor flooding . Flooding which inconvenience such as closing of minor roads and the submergence of low-level bridges. The lower limit of this class of flooding, on the reference gauge, is the initial flood level at which landholders and/or townspeople begin to be affected in a significant manner that necessitates the issuing of a public flood warning by the Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology.

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Moderate flooding. Flooding which inundates low-lying areas, requiring removal of stock and/or evacuation of some houses. Main traffic routes may be covered. Peak height. The highest level reached, at a nominated gauging station, during a particular flood event. Probable Maximum Flood (PMF). The largest flood that could conceivably be expected to occur at a particular location, usually estimated from probable maximum precipitation. The PMF defines the maximum extent of flood prone land, that is, the floodplain. It is difficult to define a meaningful Annual Exceedance Probability for the PMF, but it is commonly assumed to be of the order of 104 to 107 (once in 10,000 to 10,000,000 years). Runoff. The amount of rainfall which ends up as streamflow, also known as ‘rainfall excess’ since it is the amount remaining after accounting for other processes such as evaporation and infiltration. Stage height. A level reached, at a nominated gauging station, during the development of a particular flood event. Stream gauging station. A place on a river or stream at which the stage height is routinely measured, either daily or continuously, and where the discharge is measured from time to time so as to develop a relationship between stage and discharge or rating curve.

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PART 1 - INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose

1.1.1 This plan covers preparedness measures, the conduct of response operations and the coordination of immediate recovery measures from flooding within the Shellharbour City Council and Kiama Municipal Council areas. It covers operations for all levels of flooding within the council area.

1.1.2 The plan also covers arrangements for the management of coastal erosion/inundation in the council area.

1.1.1 Arrangements for the emergency management of tsunami are contained within the NSW Tsunami Emergency Sub-Plan

1.2 Authority

1.2.1 This plan is issued under the authority of the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act 1989 and the State Emergency Service Act 1989. It has been accepted by the Illawarra South Coast SES Region Controller and the Shellharbour City Council and Kiama Municipal Council Local Emergency Management Committee.

1.3 Area Covered by the Plan

1.3.1 The area covered by the plan is the Shellharbour City Council and Kiama Municipal Council areas which include: the towns and suburban areas of Albion Park, Albion Park Rail, Oak Flats, Mt Warrigal, Lake Illawarra, Warilla, Barrack Heights, Barrack Point, Blackbutt, Flinders, Shellharbour, Dunmore, Kiama and substantial areas of rural land.

1.3.2 The Shellharbour council area includes the Macquarie Rivulet, except for its headwaters, and the tributaries Yellow Rock, Cooback, Hazelton and Frazers creeks. Also Albion Creek, Horsley Creek, Oak Park Creek, Bensons Creek, Tongarra Creek , the left (north) bank of the lower Minnamurra River and the tributary Rocklow Creek..

1.3.3 The Kiama council area includes the Minnamurra River and its tributaries (Burra, Turpentine, Fryers, Hyams, Colyers, Fountaindale, Jerrara and Rocklow creeks) which drain most of the northern portion of the area, while the western portion is drained by the upper Kangaroo river and the tributary Gerringong and Brogers creeks. Other streams include Middle, Spring, Munna Munnora, Ooaree and Broughton creeks, Crooked River and a number of un-named watercourses.

1.3.4 The council areas and its principal rivers and creeks are shown in Map 1.

1.3.5 The council areas are in the Illawarra South Coast SES Region and for emergency management purposes is part of the Illawarra Emergency Management District.

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1.4 Description of Flooding and its Effects

1.4.1 The nature of flooding in the Shellharbour City and Kiama Municipal Council areas are described in Annex A.

1.4.2 The effects of flooding on the Shellharbour community are detailed in Annex B

1.4.3 The effects of flooding on the Kiama community are detailed in Annex C

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PART 2 - RESPONSIBILITIES 2.1 General

The general responsibilities of emergency service organisations and supporting services (functional areas) are listed in the Local Disaster Plan (Displan). Some specific responsibilities are expanded upon in the following paragraphs. The extent of their implementation will depend on the severity of the flooding. Specific responsibilities of agencies and organisations as they relate to tsunami are detailed in the State Tsunami Emergency Sub Plan.

2.2 SES Local Controllers.

2.2.1 The Kiama and Shellharbour SES Local Controllers are the representatives of the SES Director General within the Local Government Area and are responsible for managing the full range of operational, planning, training and administrative functions within the local SES Unit.

2.2.2 The Kiama and Shellharbour SES Local Controllers are responsible for the following activities related to flooding within their respective council areas and will:

a. Ensure that SES members are trained to undertake flood operations in accordance with current policy as laid down in the SES Controllers’ Handbook and the SES Operations Manual.

b. Develop and operate a flood intelligence system.

c. Coordinate the development and operation of a flood warning service for the community.

d. Participate in floodplain risk management and coastal zone management initiatives organised by the Shellharbour and Kiama Municipal Councils.

e. Coordinate a public education program so that residents of flood prone areas can be made aware of the flood threat.

f. Ensure that the currency of this plan is maintained.

2.3 SES Local Operations Controller

2.3.1 The SES Local Operations Controller performs responsibilities for managing all response and recovery activities related to an operation under the operational management system used by the SES.

2.3.2 The SES Local Controller is appointed to this position by default but may appoint a delegated representative if required.

2.3.3 The SES Local Operations Controller will:

a. Locate themselves at their respective SES Local Operations Centre to control flood response operations. This includes:

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i Directing the activities of the SES units operating within the council area.

ii Coordinating the activities of supporting agencies and organisations and ensuring that liaison is established with them.

b. Initiate flood response operations.

c. Identify and monitor people and/or communities at risk of flooding.

d. Direct the conduct of flood rescue operations.

e. Direct the evacuation of people and/or communities.

f. Coordinate the provision of immediate welfare support for evacuated people.

g. Coordinate the provision of emergency food and medical supplies to flood bound people and/or communities.

h. Provide an information service in relation to:

i Flood heights and flood behaviour.

ii Road conditions and closures.

iii Advice on methods of limiting property damage.

iv Confirmation of evacuation warnings.

i. Coordinate operations to protect property, for example:

i Arranging resources for sandbagging operations.

ii Arranging lifting or moving household furniture.

iii Arranging lifting or moving commercial stock and equipment.

iv Arranging resources to relocate farm animals.

j. Arrange for support (for example, accommodation and meals) for emergency service organisation members and volunteers assisting them.

k. If SES resources are available, coordinate assistance to the NSW Police Force and Council with road closure and traffic control operations.

l. Exercise financial delegations relating to the use of emergency orders as laid down in the SES Controllers’ Handbook.

m. Submit Situation Reports to the SES Region Headquarters and agencies assisting within the council area. These will contain information on:

i Road conditions and closures.

ii Current flood behaviour.

iii Current operational activities.

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iv Likely future flood behaviour.

v Likely future operational activities.

vi Probable resource needs.

n. Keep the Local Emergency Operations Controller advised of the flood situation and the operational response.

o. Issue the ‘All Clear’ when flood operations have been completed.

p. Ensure that appropriate debriefings are held after events

q. Assist in the establishment and deliberations of the recovery Coordinating Committee after floods

2.4 SES Unit Members:

2.4.1 Carry out flood, coastal erosion/inundation and tsunami response tasks. These may include:

a. The management of the Kiama, Shellharbour SES Local and Unit Headquarters Operations Centres.

b. Gathering flood and coastal erosion/inundation intelligence.

c. Flood rescue.

d. Evacuation.

e. Providing immediate welfare for evacuated people.

f. Delivery of warnings and information.

g. Resupply.

h. Levee monitoring.

i. Sandbagging.

j. Lifting and/or moving household furniture and commercial stock.

k. Moving farm animals.

l. Assisting in repairing or improving levees to manage flooding.

m. Assisting with road closure and traffic control operations.

n. Assisting with emergency fodder supply operations.

2.4.2 Assist with preparedness activities.

2.4.3 Undertake training in flood operations and coastal erosion/inundation.

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2.5 Shellharbour City and Kiama Municipal Council Local Emergency Management Officer:

2.5.1 Provide executive support to the Local Emergency Operations Controller in accordance with the Shellharbour City Council, Kiama Municipal Council Local Disaster Plan.

2.6 Shellharbour City and Kiama Municipal Council Local Emergency Operations Controller:

2.6.1 Monitor flood operations.

2.6.2 Coordinate support to the SES Local Operations Controllers if requested to do so.

2.7 Shellharbour City Council and Kiama Municipal Council:

2.7.1 Maintain a plant and equipment resource list for the council area.

2.7.2 Contribute to the development and implementation of a public education program.

2.7.3 At the request of the SES Local Operations Controller, deploy available personnel and resources for flood, coastal erosion/inundation or tsunami related activities.

2.7.4 Close and reopen council roads (and other roads nominated by agreement with the RTA) and advise the SES Local Operations Controller, the Police and people who telephone the council for road information.

2.7.5 Assist with the removal of caravans from caravan parks.

2.7.6 Provide back-up radio communications.

2.7.7 In the event of evacuations, assist with making facilities available for the domestic pets and companion animals of evacuees.

2.7.8 Provide for the removal of debris and waste from public lands and council owned public premises.

2.7.9 Assist with determining if premises are fit and safe for reoccupation and assess any need for demolition.

2.7.10 Establish and maintain floodplain risk and coastal zone management committees and ensure that key agencies are represented on such committees.

2.7.11 Provide flood studies, floodplain management studies and coastal zone management studies to the SES.

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2.7.12 In addition for coastal erosion and /or inundation as a result of storms at sea:

a. Carry out ecologically sustainable planning and management of the coastal zone.

b. Prepare Coastal Zone Management Plans in accordance with the Coastal Protection Act, 1979 including arrangements for the emergency management of coastal erosion.

c. Consult with the SES and other relevant agencies when developing emergency management arrangements for inclusion in Coastal Zone Management Plans.

d. Assist with reconnaissance of coastal erosion/inundation hotspots

e. Where emergency physical mitigation works to protect coastal property or other structures have been identified as being required in a Coastal Zone Management Plan, construct works. Where no Coastal Zone Management Plan exists Councils should seek appropriate technical, legal and environmental advice before constructing or allowing the construction of physical mitigation works to protect coastal property or other structures. These works should ensure protection of beach environments and beach amenity and allow continuing and undiminished access to beaches, headlands and waterways;

f. After the storm, remove and/or mitigate the impact of temporary physical protective measures on the beach; and

g. Assist the SES with lifting and/or relocating readily moveable household and business contents in areas where coastal storms (likely to result in coastal erosion / inundation) are forecast or occurring.

2.8 Ambulance Service of NSW - Kiama, Warilla:

2.8.1 Assist with the evacuation of elderly and/or infirm people.

2.8.2 In consultation with the SES deploy ambulance resources to the following area/s if access is expected to be lost:

a. Jamberoo

b. Albion Park

c. Kiama Downs/Minnamurra

d. Gerringong/Gerroa

2.9 Australian Volunteer Coast Guard (AVCG):

2.9.1 Assist with the delivery of evacuation warnings.

2.9.2 Assist with the conduct of evacuations

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2.10 Bureau of Meteorology (BoM):

2.10.1 Provide Flood Watches that cover the region.

2.10.2 Provide Severe Weather Warnings when large waves and/or storm surge conditions are forecast to result in coastal erosion/inundation.

2.10.3 Provide Severe Weather Warnings and Severe Thunderstorm Warnings when flash flooding is possible.

2.11 Caravan Park Proprietors – As listed in Annex G :

2.11.1 Prepare a Flood Management Plan for the Caravan Park.

2.11.2 Ensure that owners and occupiers of caravans are aware that the caravan park is flood liable and what they must do to facilitate evacuation and van relocation when flooding occurs.

2.11.3 Ensure that occupiers are informed of flood warnings and flood watches.

2.11.4 Coordinate the evacuation of people and the relocation of moveable vans when floods are rising and their return when flood waters have subsided.

2.11.5 Inform the SES of the progress of evacuation and/or van relocation operations and of any need for assistance in the conduct of these tasks.

2.12 Childcare Centres and Preschools 2.12.1 Childcare centres vulnerable to the effects of flooding are to be contacted by

the SES in the event of possible flooding.

2.12.2 When notified the childcare centres should:

a. Liaise with the SES and arrange for the early release of children whose travel arrangements are likely to be disrupted by flooding and/or road closures

b. Assist with coordinating the evacuation of pre-schools and childcare centres.

2.13 Citizens’ Radio Emergency Service Teams (CREST) / Wireless Institute Civil Emergency Network (WICEN):

Provide communications assistance where required.

2.14 Department of Community Services (DoCS):

2.14.1 Manage the evacuation centres.

2.14.2 Provide clothing, accommodation, food and welfare services for flood affected people, including stranded travellers.

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2.15 Department of Environment & Climate Change (DECC):

Provide technical advice to the SES regarding flooding and coastal hazards.

2.16 Department of Primary Industries - Sydney & South East Region:

2.16.1 Coordinate the supply and delivery distribution of emergency fodder and other materials to animals affected by floods.

2.16.2 Manage the care of companion animals.

2.16.3 Provide animal care services for wildlife, for domestic animals and for companion pets of victims evacuated from an area affected by a flood emergency.

2.16.4 Provide advice on dealing with dead and injured farm animals.

2.16.5 Provide immediate and continuing rehabilitation, assistance to primary producers including assessment of damage and losses.

2.17 Electricity Provider -Integral:

2.17.1 Provide advice to the SES Local Operations Controller of any need to disconnect power supplies or of any timetable for reconnection.

2.17.2 Clear or make safe any hazard caused by power lines or electrical reticulation equipment.

2.17.3 Assess the necessity for and implement the disconnection of customers’ electrical installations where these may present a hazard.

2.17.4 Advise the public with regard to electrical hazards during flooding and to the availability or otherwise of the electricity supply.

2.17.5 Inspect, test and reconnect customers’ electrical installations as conditions allow.

2.17.6 Assist the SES to identify infrastructure at risk of flooding for incorporation into planning and intelligence.

2.18 NSW Fire Brigades - Albion Park Rail, Kiama, Shellharbour:


2.18.2 Assist with the conduct of evacuations.

2.18.3 Provide equipment for pumping flood water out of buildings and from low-lying areas.

2.18.4 Assist with cleanup operations, including the hosing out of flood affected properties.

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2.18.5 Pre-deploy fire resources in consultation with the SES to nominated areas if access is expected to be lost.

2.19 NSW Police Force - Lake Illawarra LAC:


2.19.2 Assist with the conduct of evacuation operations.

2.19.3 Conduct road and traffic control operations in conjunction with council and/or RTA.

2.19.4 Coordinate the registration of all evacuees.

2.19.5 Secure evacuated areas.

2.20 Rail Transport Provider - Railcorp:

2.20.1 Close and re-open railway lines as necessary and advise the SES Local Operations Controller.

2.20.2 Arrange trains for evacuations and/or commuting purposes.

2.21 Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA):

2.21.1 Close and reopen the following roads when affected by flood waters and advise the SES Local Operations Controller:

a. Princes Highway

b. Illawarra Highway

c. Tongarra Road

2.21.2 Close and re-open roads as necessary and advise the SES Local Operations Controller.

2.22 Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol (RVCP):



2.23 Rural Fire Service (RFS), Illawarra Team:

2.23.1 Provide personnel in rural areas and villages to:

a. inform the SES Local Operations Controller about flood conditions and response needs in their own communities, and

b. disseminate flood information.

2.23.2 Provide personnel and high-clearance vehicles for flood related activities.

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2.23.5 Provide equipment for pumping flood water out of buildings and from low-lying areas.

2.23.6 Assist with the removal of caravans.

2.23.7 Provide back-up radio communications.

2.23.8 Assist with cleanup operations, including the hosing of flood affected properties.

2.23.9 Pre-deploy fire resources in consultation with the SES to nominated areas if access is expected to be lost.

2.24 School Administration Offices (Incl. Catholic Education Office, Dept. of Education & Training & Private Schools)

2.24.1 Liaise with the SES and arrange for the early release of students whose travel arrangements are likely to be disrupted by flooding and/or road closures (or where required, for students to be moved to a suitable location until normal school closing time). Those school s include:

a. Albion Park Public School

b. Minnamurra Public School

c. Kiama High School

d. Kiama Public School

e. Jamberoo Primary School

f. Gerringong Primary School

2.24.2 Pass information to school bus drivers/companies and/or other school principals on expected or actual impacts of flooding.

2.24.3 Assist with the evacuation of schools identified as being vulnerable during flooding if required or as directed by SES.

2.24.4 Provide space in schools for evacuation centres where necessary.

2.25 Service and Sporting Clubs: 2.25.1 Assist with:

a. Delivery of evacuation warnings.

b. Lifting and/or moving household furniture and commercial stock.

c. Sandbagging.

d. Monitoring of levees.

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e. Relocation of caravans.

2.26 Telecommunications Providers – Telstra, Optus:

2.26.1 Maintain telephone services.

2.26.2 Repair and restore telephone facilities damaged by flooding.

2.26.3 Provide additional telecommunications support for the Kiama, Shellharbour SES Local and/or Unit Headquarters as required.

2.26.4 Assist the SES to identify infrastructure at risk of flooding for incorporation into planning and intelligence.

2.27 Transport Services Coordinator:

2.27.1 Arrange transport facilities for evacuations and/or commuting purposes.

2.28 Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) – South Coast Squad:

2.28.1 Assist the SES Local Operations Controller with flood operations, where equipment and training are suitable.

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PART 3 - PREPAREDNESS

3.1 Maintenance of This Plan

3.1.1 The SES Local Controller will maintain the currency of this plan by:

a. Ensuring that all agencies, organisations and officers mentioned in it are aware of their roles and responsibilities.

b. Conducting exercises to test arrangements.

c. Reviewing the contents of the plan:

i After each flood operation.

ii When significant changes in land-use or community characteristics occur.

iii When new information from flood studies become available.

iv When flood control or mitigation works are implemented or altered.

v When there are changes that alter agreed plan arrangements.

3.1.2 In any event, the plan is to be reviewed no less frequently than every five years.

3.2 Floodplain and Coastal Risk Management

3.2.1 The SES Local Controller will ensure that the SES:

a. Participates in floodplain and coastal risk management committee activities when those committees are formed.

b. Consults with the flood prone community about the nature of the flood and coastal erosion /inundation problem and its management.

c. Informs the Illawarra South Coast SES Region Headquarters of involvement in floodplain and coastal risk management activities.

3.2.2 Description of the management of coastal erosion/inundation can be found at Annex I.

3.3 Development of Flood Intelligence

3.3.1 Flood intelligence describes flood behaviour and its effects on the community. The effects include:

a. Inundation (leading to a need for evacuation and/or property protection).

b. Isolation (creating a need for resupply and/or rescue).

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c. Disruption to community activities (for example, disruptions brought about by the loss of transport routes).

3.3.2 Flood intelligence is obtained by the process of gathering and assessing information for the purpose of estimating the likely impacts of pending and future floods. It is used to facilitate operational decision making and the provision of warnings and information to agencies and the public.

3.3.3 The SES will develop and maintain a flood intelligence system.

3.4 Development of Warning Systems

3.4.1 The SES will establish and/or maintain a flood warning system for areas affected by flooding. This requires:

a. An identification of the potential clients of flood warning information at different levels of flooding (ie. who would be affected in floods of differing severities).

b. Available information about the estimated impacts of flooding at different heights.

c. Identification of required actions and the amounts of time needed to carry them out.

d. Appropriate means of disseminating warnings to different clients and at different flood levels.

3.5 Public Education

3.5.1 The SES, with the assistance of the Shellharbour City Council, Kiama Municipal Council, the Illawarra South Coast SES Region Headquarters and SES State Headquarters, is responsible for ensuring that the residents of the council area are aware of the flood threat in their vicinity and how to protect themselves from it. This includes people knowing:

a. At what stage their property might be inundated (if applicable).

b. The evacuation routes that would apply to them.

c. The location of evacuation centres.

d. The importance of registering their evacuation at an evacuation centre.

e. The general contents of this plan.

3.5.2 Specific strategies to be employed include:

a. Dissemination of flood-related brochures and booklets in flood liable areas.

b. Talks and displays orientated to community organisations and schools.

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c. Publicity given to this plan and to flood-orientated SES activities through local media outlets, including articles in local newspapers about the flood threat and appropriate responses.

3.6 Training

3.6.1 Throughout this document there are references to functions that must be carried out by the members of the Kiama and Shellharbour SES. The Kiama and Shellharbour SES Local Controller is responsible for ensuring that the members are:

a. Familiar with the contents of this plan.

b. Trained in the skills necessary to carry out the tasks allocated to the SES.

3.7 Resources

3.7.1 The Kiama and Shellharbour SES Local Controllers are responsible for maintaining the condition and state of readiness of SES equipment and the Kiama and Shellharbour SES Local Headquarters.

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PART 4 - RESPONSE

4.1 Concept of Operations 4.1.1 On receipt of a Flood Watch or Severe Weather Warning, or when other

conditions lead to an expectation of flooding, the following actions will be undertaken:

a. Response operations will be initiated by the SES Local Operations Controller, the SES Region Operations Controller, or delegate.

b. SES Region HQ will issue Flood Bulletins (media releases) to warn the public of the possibility of flooding.

c. The SES Local Operations Controller or delegate will telephone the Local Emergency Operations Controller (LEOCON), to warn of the possibility of flooding and to inform that operations have been initiated.

d. The LEOCON will contact other agencies with major responsibilities under this plan, to inform them that response operation have commenced.

e. SES Local Operations Controller will ensure that specific vulnerable facilities are contacted by telephone and issued warning of the possibility of flooding.

f. SES Local Operations Controller will coordinate the reconnaissance of known problem areas and monitoring of gauges. A list of gauges monitored by the SES is at Annex D

4.1.2 If any reliable information indicates that flooding is imminent the SES Local Operations Controller, assisted by other agencies available and appropriate, will commence flood operations including:

a. Deployment of resources to assist people with property protection measures such as sand-bagging and the lifting or moving of personal possessions.

b. Directing and coordinating the evacuation of properties that are expected to experience flooding with dangerous depth and/or velocity.

c. Directing SES members and appropriate resources to undertake rescue of people from floodwaters.

d. Coordinating available resources to assist those people whose property has been flooded, with the restoration of their property, and assist with any other flood recovery measures.

e. Collecting and maintaining a record of events to further the development of flood intelligence and improve any future flood operations. Flood Intelligence Collection sheet is at Annex J

4.1.3 Specific details of flood response operations are detailed in following sections.

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4.2 Control

4.2.1 The SES is the designated Combat Agency for floods and is responsible for the control of flood operations. This includes planning for and responding to tsunami, particularly for the warning and evacuation.

4.2.2 The SES is the designated Combat Agency for damage control for storms. This includes damage control for coastal erosion/inundation from storm activity, specifically the protection of life and the coordination of the protection of readily moveable household goods and commercial stock and equipment.

4.2.3 The SES is responsible for the coordination of other agencies and organisations to assist in flood, coastal erosion/inundation and tsunami tasks

4.3 Out of Area Assistance 4.3.1 All agencies are not limited to undertake the responsibilities detailed in this

plan utilising local resources only. If there is a requirement for resources to be brought in from out of area, those resources will normally be placed under the operational and administrative command of their respective agency/organisation.

4.4 Operations Centres

4.4.1 The Shellharbour SES maintains an Operations Centre at 127 Tongarra Road, ALBION PARK.

4.4.2 The Kiama SES maintains an Operations Centre at 205 Terralong Street, KIAMA.

4.4.3 The Shellharbour City Local Emergency Operations Centre is located at 127 Tongarra Road, ALBION PARK

4.4.4 The Kiama Municipal Council Emergency Operations Centre is located at 205 Terralong St, KIAMA.

4.5 Liaison

4.5.1 At the request of the SES Local Operations Controller, each agency with responsibilities identified in this plan will provide liaison (including a liaison officer where necessary) to the relevant SES Operations Centre.

4.5.2 Liaison officers are to:

a. have the authority to deploy the resources of their parent organisations at the request of the Kiama or Shellharbour SES Local Operations Controller,

b. advise the Kiama / Shellharbour SES Local Operations Controller on resource availability for their service, and

c. be able to provide communications to their own organisations.

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4.6 Communications

4.6.1 The primary means of office-to-office communications is by telephone and facsimile.

4.6.2 The primary means of communication to and between deployed SES resources is by GRN, but radios also have:

a. RFS channels

b. UHF-CB channels

c. Emergency service liaison channels.

4.6.3 All other organisations will provide communications as necessary to their deployed field teams.

4.6.4 Back-up communications are provided as follows:

a. Shellharbour

i Illawarra Emergency Service VHF Liaison Channel.

ii Bush Fire Brigades VHF radio network.

iii Council UHF radio network.

b. Kiama:

i Council VHF radio network.

4.7 Start of Response Operations

4.7.1 This plan is always active to ensure that preparedness actions detailed in this plan are completed.

4.7.2 Response operation will begin:

a. On receipt of a Bureau of Meteorology Flood Watch or a Severe Weather Warning.

b. On receipt of a Severe Weather Warning indicating the likelihood of possible coastal erosion/inundation within the council area.

c. On receipt of an Australian Tsunami Alert indicating potential consequences within the Shellharbour or Kiama Local Government Areas.

d. When other evidence leads to an expectation of flooding and/or coastal erosion inundation within the council area.

4.7.3 Contact with the Bureau of Meteorology to discuss the development of warnings will normally be through the Illawarra South Coast SES Region Headquarters.

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4.7.4 The following persons and organisations will be advised of the initiation of response operations regardless of the location and severity of the flooding anticipated:

a. Shellharbour City Council / Kiama Municipal Council Local Emergency Operations Controller (for transmission to the NSW Police Local Area Command Headquarters).

b. Kiama and Shellharbour SES Units.

c. Kiama and Shellharbour SES Unit Controllers.

d. Illawarra South Coast SES Region Headquarters.

e. Shellharbour City Council and Kiama Municipal Council Local Emergency Management Officer (for transmission to appropriate council officers and departments).

f. Shellharbour City Council and Kiama Municipal Council Mayor.

4.7.5 Other agencies listed in this plan will be advised by the LEOCON and as appropriate to the location and nature of the threat

4.8 Flood Intelligence

4.8.1 Sources of flood intelligence during times of flooding are:

a. Bureau of Meteorology. The Bureau provides:

i Weather Forecasts

ii Severe Weather Warnings (SWW) and Severe Thunderstorm Warnings (STW) for flash flooding

iii Severe Weather Warnings of dangerous surf and storm tide conditions

b. Illawarra South Coast SES Region Headquarters. The Region Headquarters provides information on flooding and its consequences, including those in nearby council areas.

c. The Department of Commerce’s Manly Hydraulics Laboratory automated river watch system funded by the Department of Environment and Climate Change. This system provides river height and rainfall readings for a number of gauges as indicated in Annex C. Data from this system is available on the Manly Hydraulic Laboratory website: www.mhl.nsw.gov.au. A history of area floods is also available upon request via the website.

d. Department of Water and Energy. Daily river reports containing information on gauge heights and river flows are available from the website: http://waterinfo.nsw.gov.au

e. Active Reconnaissance. The SES monitors all known problem areas

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4.9 Preliminary Deployments

4.9.1 When flooding is expected to be severe enough to cut road access to towns, within towns and/or rural communities, the SES Local Operations Controller will ensure that resources are in place for the distribution of foodstuffs and medical supplies to the areas that could become isolated.

4.9.2 When access between areas is expected to be cut, the SES Local Operations Controller will advise appropriate agencies so that resources (including sandbags, fire fighting appliances, ambulances, etc.) are deployed to ensure that operational capability is maintained.

4.10 Warnings

4.10.1 Warning services operate according to the following arrangements:

a. The Kiama and Shellharbour SES Local and/or Unit Headquarters:

i Provide advice to the SES Region Headquarters on current and expected impacts of flooding within their respective council areas.

ii Coordinate the delivery of warnings to the community by door-knocking, telephone, mobile public address systems, local radio stations and two-way radio within their respective council areas.

b. The SES Region Headquarters issues warning information in the form of SES Region Flood Bulletins to Media organisations and agencies listed in Annex E.

4.10.2 Warnings are provided as follows:

a. SES Livestock and Equipment Warnings. Following heavy rain or when there are indications of significant creek or river rises (even to levels below Minor Flood heights), the SES Local Operations Controllers will advise the SES Region Headquarters which will issue SES Livestock and Equipment Warnings.

b. Bureau of Meteorology Flood Watches. If there are signs of impending floods, Flood Watches will be incorporated in SES Flood Bulletins issued by the SES Region Headquarters.

c. Bureau of Meteorology Flood Warnings. There are no flood warning gauges in the Kiama or Shellharbour council areas, hence no height and time flood warning predictions are available

d. SES Local Flood Advices. These are issued in SES Region Flood Bulletins and/or direct from the SES Local Operations Controller via facsimile.

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e. Evacuation Warnings. Annex H outlines the general arrangements for evacuations. A template guide to the content of evacuation warning messages is at Annex F

f. Standard Emergency Warning Signal (SEWS). This signal may be played over radio and television stations to alert communities to Evacuation Warnings, Special Warnings or Dam-Failure Warnings. Approval to use the signal will be obtained by the SES Local Operations Controller from the SES Region Operations Controller.

4.11 Information

4.11.1 The SES Region Headquarters issues SES Flood Bulletins to media outlets and agencies on behalf of all SES units in the Region. SES Flood Bulletins contain the following information relating to all council areas in which flooding is occurring:

a. Current warnings, together with indications of the likely impact of flooding at any predicted heights.

b. Current flood heights and flood behaviour.

c. Details of conditions and closures of main roads.

d. Advice on safety matters and means of protecting property.

e. When operations relating to coastal erosion/inundation are being undertaken, SES Region Bulletins will contain information and advice about property damage mitigation measures and evacuation in affected areas.

4.11.2 SES Flood Bulletins are issued every each time the Bureau of Meteorology issues a Flood Watch, or whenever there are significant changes to flood conditions.

4.11.3 The Kiama and Shellharbour SES Local Headquarters provides a “phone-in” information service for the community in relation to current warnings, river heights, flood behaviour, coastal erosion/inundation, road conditions and closures of local and main roads and advice on safety matters and means of protecting property.

4.11.4 Collation and dissemination of road information is actioned as follows:

a. The SES Local Operations Controllers obtain information from the Police, Council and RTA.

b. The SES Local Operations Centre provides road status reports for main roads in the council area to the SES Region Headquarters and to the Lake Illawarra Police Local Area Command Headquarters.

c. The SES Region Headquarters distributes information on main roads to SES units, media outlets and agencies as part of SES Flood Bulletins.

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4.11.5 The SES Local Operations Controller is to ensure that the SES Region Operations Controller is regularly briefed on the progress of operations and on future resource needs.

4.12 Road Control 4.12.1 A number of roads within the council areas are affected by flooding. Details

are provided in Annexes B & C.

4.12.2 The councils close and re-open their own roads.

4.12.3 The RTA closes and re-opens the Princes Highway, the Illawarra Highway and Tongarra Rd.

4.12.4 The NSW Police has the authority to close and re-open roads but will normally only do so (if the council or the RTA have not already acted) if public safety requires such action.

4.12.5 When resources permit, the SES assists Council or the Police by erecting road closure signs and barriers.

4.13 Traffic Control. 4.13.1 In the event of major flooding, the SES Local Operations Controller may

direct the imposition of traffic control measures in consultation with NSW Police and Council.

4.13.2 The entry into flood affected areas will be controlled in accordance with the provisions of the State Emergency Service Act, 1989 (Part 5, Sections 19, 20, 21 and 22) and the State Emergency Rescue Management Act, 1989 (Part 4, Sections 60KA, 60L and 61).

4.14 Flood Rescue 4.14.1 The SES Local Operations Controller controls and coordinates flood rescues

which are carried out utilising any appropriate available resource.

4.14.2 Additional flood boats and crews can be requested through the SES Region Headquarters.

4.15 Evacuations

4.15.1 In most floods, few evacuations are required within either council area. The arrangements for evacuations are outlined in Annexes will be necessary in an extreme flood and many dwellings could experience over floor inundation. Areas for which this could occur are noted in Annexes B & C.

4.16 Essential Services

4.16.1 The SES Local Operations Controller will ensure that the providers of essential services (electricity, water, sewerage, medical and public health) are kept advised of the flood situation.

4.16.2 Essential service providers must keep the SES Local Operations Controller breast of their status and ongoing ability to provide those services.

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4.17 Logistics

4.17.1 The Kiama and Shellharbour SES Local Headquarters maintain a small stock of sandbags.

4.17.2 Back-up supplies are available through the Illawarra South Coast SES Region Headquarters.

4.17.3 A motorised sandbag-filling machine is available from Illawarra South Coast SES Region Headquarters. Alternatively, local concrete trucks may be used.

4.18 Aircraft Management

4.18.1 Aircraft can be used for a variety of purposes during flood operations including evacuation, rescue, resupply, reconnaissance and emergency travel.

4.18.2 Air support operations will be conducted under the control of the SES Region Headquarters, which may allocate aircraft to units if applicable.

4.18.3 The SES Local Operations Controller may task aircraft for flood operations within the Council area if other transport means are not available or suitable.

4.18.4 During floods affecting more than one council area, aircraft will normally be tasked centrally by the SES Region Operations Controller.

4.18.5 The Illawarra Regional Airport is subject to flooding on the North/South runway in a 1% AEP. Monitoring of the flooding situation at the airport will be undertaken by Shellharbour SES and Shellharbour City Council in consultation with on-airport agencies to determine viability for aircraft use.

4.19 Resupply of Isolated Towns and Villages

4.19.1 The SES is responsible for the coordination of the resupply of isolated communities. The areas of highest probability for short term isolation are:

a. Jamberoo

b. Albion Park

c. Kiama Downs/Minnamurra

d. Gerringong/Gerroa

4.19.2 Where practicable the SES Local Operations Controller will arrange for the delivery from normal suppliers of essential foodstuffs, fuels or urgent medical supplies required by an isolated property or community. This may be done using high clearance vehicles, floodboats or, on occasions, aircraft.

4.19.3 Where supplies are not available within the council area, the SES Local Operations Controller may request them through the Illawarra South Coast SES Region Headquarters. The Region Operations Controller will usually arrange for them to be delivered to the SES Local Logistics Coordinator for further distribution within the council area.

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4.20 Resupply of Isolated Properties

4.20.1 The resupply of isolated properties is a common requirement during floods and coordination can be difficult because requests can emanate from a variety of sources. Property owners may call their suppliers direct or place their orders with the Kiama / Shellharbour SES, through DoCS, or through their own social networks.

4.20.2 The principles to be applied when planning for the resupply of isolated properties are:

a. The SES will coordinate resupply and establish a schedule.

b. DoCS will liaise with the SES concerning property holders who place orders with them. They will include people in dire circumstances who receive resupply at no cost. DoCS has a well developed system for this situation, including a standard list of approved resupply items.

c. If a property holder seeks resupply from the SES and claims to be, or is considered to be, in dire circumstances, he/she is to be referred to DoCS.

d. Local suppliers will liaise with the SES regarding delivery of resupply items to the designated loading point.

e. Local suppliers are responsible for packaging resupply items for delivery.

4.21 Stranded Travellers

4.21.1 Flood waters can strand travellers at a number of locations within the council areas. Most access routes will only be inaccessible for short periods of time. Travellers seeking temporary accommodation assistance will be referred to the Department of Community Services.

4.22 All Clear

4.22.1 When the danger to life and property has passed, the SES Local Operations Controller will issue an ‘All Clear’ message signifying that response operations have been completed. This message will also advise details of arrangements for evacuated residents to return to their homes or indicate what longer-term accommodation arrangements have been made for those unable to do so.

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PART 5 - RECOVERY

5.1 Welfare

5.1.1 The Department of Community Services will provide for the long-term welfare of people who have been evacuated.

5.2 Recovery Coordination

5.2.1 The SES Local Operations Controller will ensure that planning for long-term recovery operations begins at the earliest opportunity. This is to be done by briefing the chairman of the Shellharbour City Council, Kiama Municipal Council Local Emergency Management Committee on the details of the flooding and assisting in the establishment of a Recovery Coordinating Committee.

5.2.2 The Recovery Coordinating Committee is to prepare an outline plan for recovery operations and be prepared to recommend how such operations would best be controlled and coordinated.

5.3 Arrangements for Debriefs / After Action Reviews

5.3.1 As soon as possible after flooding has abated, the Kiama and/or Shellharbour SES Local Controller will advise participating organisations of details of response operation after action review arrangements.

5.3.2 The Kiama and/or Shellharbour SES Local Controller will ensure that adequate arrangements are in place to record details of the after action review and each item requiring further action is delegated to an organisation or individual to implement.

5.3.3 Follow-up to ensure the satisfactory completion of these actions will be undertaken by the Shellharbour City Council, Kiama Municipal Council Local Emergency Management Committee.

A-1


ANNEX A - THE FLOOD THREAT

Landforms and River System(s)

1. The Shellharbour Council area is located on the coastal plain between the Illawarra Escarpment and the Tasman Sea. A majority of the Local Government Area drains to Lake Illawarra before discharging to the Tasman Sea via the entrance at Windang. Lake Illawarra is a shallow coastal lake to the north of the Shellharbour LGA which shares its catchment with Wollongong LGA. The foreshore is generally populated with a mix of residential commercial and industrial development. Some of the significant watercourses draining to Lake Illawarra include Macquarie Rivulet (with Yellow Rock and Frazers Creek in the upper tributaries), Horsley Creek and Oakey Creek. Further south there are several other watercourses within the LGA including Bensons and Tongarra Creeks which flow to Elliot Lake/Little Lake at Warilla before also discharging to the Tasman Sea. The Minnamurra River is to the south of the LGA and shares its catchment with Kiama Council.

2. The Kiama Council area is made up of the rugged country of the Illawarra Range in the western and central areas, undulating land in the north and along the coast and swampy lowland areas along the Minnamurra River. The Minnamurra River and its tributaries (Burra, Turpentine, Fryers, Hyams, Colyers, Fountaindale, Jerrara and Rocklow creeks) drain most of the northern portion of the council area, while the western portion is drained by the upper Kangaroo river and the tributary Gerringong and Brogers creeks. Other streams include Middle, Spring, Munna Munnora, Ooaree and Broughton creeks, Crooked River and a number of un-named watercourses.

Storage Dams and Reservoirs

3. Shellharbour: The following dams and/or reservoirs within the Shellharbour LGA are prescribed and have Dam Safety Emergency Plans in place:

Dam / Reservoir Location Owner

Blackbutt Dam Wattle Road Shellharbour Council

Oak Flats Reservoir Pioneer Drive Sydney Catchment Authority

4. Kiama: The following dams and/or reservoirs within the Kiama LGA are prescribed:

Dam / Reservoir Location Owner

Jerrara Creek Dam Mount Brandon Road Kiama Municipal Council

Fountaindale Creek Dam

Fountaindale Road Kiama Municipal Council

A-2


Operation and Procedures

5. When a failure or overflow occurs, the stated emergency contact procedures are to be carried out in a smooth, orderly and efficient manner in accordance with the relevant Dam Safety Emergency Plan.

6. The SES will initiate appropriate emergency action to safeguard downstream areas as appropriate to the alert status and as per the Flood Plan arrangements

Weather Systems and Flooding

7. Flooding can occur at any time of year, but in different seasons it is triggered by different rain-producing mechanisms. There is a slight bias toward the January-June period as far as flood occurrence is concerned. Floods may result from:

a. Low-pressure systems located off the coast and producing moisture-laden on-shore winds which, when orographically triggered by the Illawarra Range, can produce very heavy rains. Such systems generally occur during summer. In February 1984, such a system produced serious flooding immediately to the north of the council area.

b. Frontal systems crossing the council area from west to east. Such systems can pass at any time of year, but they are most common during the winter months.

c. High-intensity, short-duration convective thunderstorms which occur during the summer months. These storms can cause sharp rises on minor creeks and flooding in towns and villages when artificial drainage systems surcharge.

d. King or storm tides can cause inundation of low-lying coastal areas and hold up the escape of flood waters from streams to the sea.

8. Average annual precipitation varies from less than 1,100 mm along the coast to more than 1,500 mm on the high ground in the west of the council area. Daily rainfall totals of more than 200 mm have been recorded on several occasions in the council area and at nearby locations. In February 1984, more than 500 mm fell in a single event, most of it in about nine hours over a portion of the catchment of the Macquarie Rivulet. Periods of near-constant rain for several days on end have also been recorded. More than 60% of the council area's rain occurs during the summer and autumn quarters, most of it in February, March and April.

9. Floods may occur at any time of year, but they are more common in the late summer-early winter period (January to June) than at other times. Most of the more serious floods in the council area have been caused by storm durations between 6 and 24 hours.

A-3


Flood Mitigation Systems

10. Several flood detention basins have been constructed upstream of and within areas of suburban development, particularly the relatively recent subdivisions. The prescribed dams within the Shellharbour LGA include St Johns High School Basin, Green Meadows Detention Basin and Blackbutt Dam. A majority of these basins `store' flood waters and reduce the flood peak flow rate downstream. In doing so they reduce the severity of frequent flood events, but they cannot be expected to mitigate the consequences of all more severe events. Creek dredging, pipeline amplification and road raising works also mitigate the impacts of flooding but do not eliminate flooding entirely.

Extreme Flooding

11. As far as is known, extreme flooding has not occurred in the Shellharbour or Kiama council areas since European settlement. Such flooding is possible, however, and floods more serious than the 1% AEP (`once-in-100-years') event can occur. It is a characteristic of very severe floods that they tend to reach much greater heights than were recorded in earlier events. They also tend to be both faster to rise and more dangerous in terms of depth and velocity than previous floods. Such floods would quickly overwhelm the storage capacities of the existing flood detention basins and cause disastrous flooding downstream.

12. No Probable Maximum Flood (PMF) levels have been assessed for locations within the council area. However the 1984 event in the neighbouring Wollongong LGA (likened to a probable maximum flood event) resulted in significant rises in water levels in Lake Illawarra and caused notable disruption to the Mullet Creek catchment immediately to the north of Macquarie Rivulet. In this event the Lake rose to a level of 1.9m AHD one of the highest levels recorded in recent history. This resulted in foreshore flooding and caused significant disruption to traffic flow surrounding the lake as well as some property inundation.

13. The last major flood event on the Lake Illawarra floodplain was in 1991 where the lake rose to a level of 1.8m AHD. The event was approximately equivalent to a 2% AEP event. This mainly caused inundation of the foreshore, road closures and some property flooding.

Storm Surges

14. Storm surge is an increase in the sea water level at the coast. The principal factors in the generation of a storm surge are:

a. The wind stress on the sea surface, piling up water.

b. The atmospheric pressure reduction in the storm area raising sea water level.

A-4


c. The net water transport shoreward due to waves and swell breaking in the shallows.

d. The local surge modification due to bottom topography, abnormally heavy rainfall and the presence of currents, tides and natural oscillations.

15. The maximum water levels from a combination of high tides, wave set-up and storm surge could be greater than 2.0 metres AHD. Of this, high tide levels and wave set-up would account for much more than storm surge, which is estimated to be able to contribute only about 0.4 metres.

Tsunami

16. The NSW State Emergency Service is the designated combat agency within NSW for dealing with tsunami and tsunami related flooding and to coordinate the evacuation and welfare of affected communities.

17. In tsunami emergencies, Emergency Services, Functional Areas and other agencies are to be prepared to provide support if requested by the appointed Local / Region State Emergency Service Operations Controller.

B-1


ANNEX B - EFFECTS OF FLOODING ON THE SHELLHARBOUR COMMUNITY

Community Profile

Census Description Shellharbour LGA

Albion Park

Albion Park Rail

Oak Flats

Lake Illawarra

Warilla Shellharbour

Total Persons 60,336 11,262 6,937 6,399 3,121 5,613 3,304

Total Dwellings 20,831 3,571 2,391 2,271 1,320 1,970 1,121

Total persons aged 65 years and over

7,487 865 847 933 653 1,146 456

Total persons aged below 15 years

13,861 3,004 1,593 1,294 583

1,105 689

Total persons of indigenous origin

1,402 207 225 120 88 172 45

Total persons using Internet 12,088 2,435 1,415 1,267 531 909 692

Single parent families 2,992 459 401 312 242 389 144

Persons living alone 4,033 473 476 448 480 631 219

Total persons who do not speak English well

818 12 46 29 46 120 45

Total persons who lived at a different address 5 years ago

17,796 3,872 1,999 1,603 862 1,611 926

Households without vehicles 1,658 136 157 180 256 367 59

Total persons residing in caravans, cabins or houseboats

391 12 0 0 0 194 0

Have a disability requiring assistance

2,908 358 438 157 227 472 123

Average household size 2.6 3.1 2.7 2.7 2.2 2.4 2.7

Source: Australian Census of Housing and Population 2006

Characteristics of Flooding

1. The urban areas of Shellharbour LGA adjacent to the major watercourses, Elliot Lake and Lake Illawarra face a significant risk of flooding. For Elliot Lake the threat not only includes storm generated runoff but also elevated ocean levels.

2. Rainfall runoff from the steeper western parts of the Lake Illawarra catchment flow eastward along the watercourses which quickly reach the much flatter

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coastal floodplain. The flow tends to gather in this area and slows markedly with increased flood depths. Flood flows in the lower parts of the catchment are complicated by bridge and culvert crossings over the feeder creeks before entering the main body of the lake.

3. Flood waters within Lake Illawarra are characterised by slow velocities and a near horizontal water surface across the Lake. Closer to the lake entrance flood waters accelerate as they pass under Windang bridge and out to the Tasman Sea. The rate and depth of flooding along the lake foreshore depend on both the rate of catchment runoff as well as the degree of shoaling of the lake entrance channel at Windang as well as the coincident ocean levels.

4. For the Elliot Lake catchment high ocean levels coupled with storm runoff can pose a high hazard to residents surrounding Barrack Swamp, Elliot Lake, lower Bensons Creek and lower Tongarra Creek. High ocean levels can create conditions that can block the catchment runoff from exiting the lake entrance and alternatively the level of the beach berm at Warilla Beach can also restrict the runoff causing elevated flood levels.

Specific Risk Areas

5. Flooding in the Shellharbour Council area has a range of effects. These can include the cutting of roads (which can cause the isolation of numerous houses) the inundation of farm land and the evacuation of residents. Large numbers of evacuations have not been necessary in the past, but several houses in various parts of the council area are known to be liable to flooding and in rare and severe flood events the number of such houses could be quite high. Inundation of buildings to beyond floor level can occur as a result of flooding from the watercourses, Elliot Lake and from Lake Illawarra. In some low-lying areas, local drainage can have the same effect. In the worst recorded flood events, more than 100 houses have been damaged by over-floor inundation

6. The following paragraphs indicate the principal consequences of flooding in the various catchment areas:

a. Frazers Creek: Flooding on this tributary of Macquarie Rivulet can cause substantial amounts of farmland to be inundated even in relatively low-level flooding. In a 1% AEP event (a flood of a magnitude which would occur, on average, only once in a 100-year period and hence would have a 1% chance of occurring in any one year), some houses in Albion Park could experience inundation. About 15 dwellings in O'Gorman St and Stapleton Ave could be flooded, and several other houses and a school in Tongarra Rd and Terry St would be close to inundation in such an event. Keith Gray Oval and a nearby shop can be flooded, and the Illawarra Highway and Tongarra Rd closed.

b. New subdivisions at the southern end of Albion Park adjacent to the Albion Park-Jamberoo road are protected by very large flood detention basins. However there may still be some disruption as a result of isolation of these communities as a result of flash flooding.

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c. Cooback Creek: About 3-4 houses in Polock Cres can be flooded from this creek, which can also cause the closure of the Illawarra Highway immediately to the west of Albion Park.

d. Macquarie Rivulet: Very few houses along the main stream are subject to inundation, even in extreme events, but large areas of farmland are flood liable and the Calderwood Rd bridge approaches at Albion Park can be inundated leading to the closure of the road. Landslips are common on the escarpment and can close the Macquarie Pass road.

e. Albion Creek: Flooding on this creek can cause the closure of the Princes Highway and create property inundation in Poplar Ave and Mallee St. Water up to 1 m in depth could threaten up to 25 houses in a 1% flood event.

f. Horsley Creek: There is a potential for flooding of some older houses in Koona St, and the Princes Highway has been cut for periods of 3-4 hours near the Oak Flats Railway Station. Water has flowed over Mineral and Industrial roads. A small number of low-lying properties near the station could experience inundation, along with about 12 in Station Rd from an unnamed tributary creek.

g. Oak Park Creek: No cases of serious property inundation are known in this catchment, but local nuisance flooding across New Lake Entrance Rd has occurred. A major detention basin near Shellharbour Square will reduce the incidence of flooding here.

h. Bensons Creek: Water has reached the backs of houses in Leawarra Ave during floods. A 1% event could cause severe property inundation in Terry St and Osborne Pde, with more than 20 houses potentially being flooded. In such a flood, up to 50 caravans would need to be relocated from Lake Windemere Caravan Park. Water from this creek has crossed Shellharbour Rd south of Sunset Ave, and a factory there is probably flood liable. Part of Sparta St, and the Oakleigh Caravan Park, are also flood prone. In 1971, Bensons Creek flooded Susan, Woodford, Beverley and Stephanie Aves and George St and some houses experienced over-floor inundation. A large council-owned site to the north-west of the Shellharbour-Lake Entrance Rd intersection is thought to be at or below the level of flooding in the 1% AEP flood event.

i. Tongarra Creek: Nuisance flooding of Shellharbour Rd in the vicinity of the Mary Bridge has been experienced, and flood waters have reached back fence lines in Ocean Beach Dr. Upstream detention basins will alleviate these problems, but local sheet flooding from the Blackbutt Forest Reserve will still occur. On the lower reaches there is a potential for over-floor inundation of low-lying houses in Bass St, and the Surfrider Caravan Park is liable to flooding. The Barrack Ave bridge chokes flood flows, raising levels upstream to the south.

j. Lake Illawarra: Raised lake levels can cause inundation of property along Reddall Pde and the closure of this road on both the eastern and western sides of Windang Bridge. A few houses have been flooded, but most

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flooding in nearby streets (including Pur Pur and Addison Aves, Grove Circ, View St, Dyson Rd and Kotari Pde) has not caused over-floor inundation. The same is true in Koona St, Albion Park Rail. Reddall Pde can be closed to traffic for a day or more. Public land along the foreshore is also inundated. The community of Macquarie Shores estate adjacent to Macquarie Rivulet and may become isolated either as a result of Lake Flooding or Macquarie Rivulet in cases of severe flooding.

k. Rocklow Creek: Flooding from this creek and from local hills can cause the Princes Highway to be closed at Dunmore, in some cases for several days. Water depths of 0.5 m have been recorded over a kilometre's length of road near the Shellharbour Railway Station.

l. Other Problem Areas: Old houses in lower Wentworth St and Boollwaroo Pde, Shellharbour can be flooded as a result of local drainage. Some local flooding has also occurred along the low points along The Boulevarde, Oak Flats, The Esplanade and Reddal Parade. Pipe amplification works have recently been conducted in this area so the frequency of flooding along some of these low points may be reduced.

m. Oceanic Inundation: Elevated ocean levels and large waves have caused inundation in the Surfrider Caravan Park. In 1988, waves were reported to have crashed over annexes.

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Road Closures

7. The following roads within the Shellharbour Local Government Area are flood liable.

Road Affected at Comments/Implications

Princes Highway Between Mallee St and Airport Rd

Usually affected for the period of rain fall

Princes Highway Just south of Station Road.

Usually affected for the period of rain fall

Princes Highway Various locations Storm run-off building up resulting in inundation of numerous traffic lanes in either direction

Station Road Between Princes Hwy and Black St

Can be affected by flooding from Horsley Creek

Illawarra Highway Between Croome Lane and Taylor Street

Can be affected by flooding from Macquarie Rivulet. During intense rain periods may close for a number of days.

Tongarra Road Between Croome Rd and Stapleton Ave

Can be affected by flooding in Frazers Ck, or by backup flooding from Macquarie Rivulet

Calderwood Road Between and North Macquarie Road

Can be affected by flooding from Macquarie Rivulet.

Industrial Road Various locations Usually affected for the period of rain fall

Effects on Utilities and Infrastructure

8. Illawarra Airport . A 1% AEP flood on the rivulet would cause water to flow across the Albion Park Aerodrome, which could potentially close the runways. In such a flood, water would enter the Albion Creek catchment and close the Princes Highway.

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ANNEX C - EFFECTS OF FLOODING ON THE KIAMA COMMUNITY

Community Profile

Census Description Total LGA Kiama Gerringong Gerroa Jamberoo Village

Total Persons 18,988 12,288 3,588 475 937

Total Dwellings 6,818 4,553 1,219 188 312

Total persons aged 65 years and over

3,573 2,299 721 122 144

Total persons aged below 15 years

3,589 2,284 754 66 208

Total persons of indigenous origin

219 123 69 3 9

Total persons using Internet 4,515 2,958 789 119 230

Single parent families 650 464 109 16 35

Persons living alone 1,536 1,061 285 53 44

Total persons who do not speak English well

53 42 3 3 0

Total persons who lived at a different address 5 years ago

5,462 3,573 1,086 181 210

Households without vehicles 416 311 82 9 8

Total persons residing in caravans, cabins or houseboats

58 40 0 10 0

Have a disability requiring assistance

849 506 253 26 30

Average household size 3 3 3 2 3

Source: Australian Census of Housing and Population 2006

Specific Risk Areas

1. There are few records of flooding and its consequences, but floods are relatively infrequent and usually not severe. Inundation of low-lying farm lands along the lower Minnamurra River and in Terragong Swamp, in the Omega, Toolijooa, Rose Valley, Willow Vale, Broughton Creek areas and in Foys Swamp. Such flooding requires the lifting of pumps and the movement of farm animals.

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2. Inundation of low-lying properties in villages and towns as a result of the surcharging of drains. Small numbers of houses can experience inundation of basements and floors.

3. On very rare occasions, small numbers of evacuations or rescues may be necessary.

Road Closures

4. The following roads within the Kiama Local Government Area are flood liable.

Road Affected at Comments/Implications

Princes Hwy At Omega Flat Closure is infrequent and brief at this point and is usually restricted to light vehicles.

Kiama - Jamberoo Road

(Main Road 264)

At Colyers, Fountaindale, Jerrara and Spring creeks

Usually for the period of intense rain fall with a number of hours after.

Albion Park – Jamberoo Road

Main Road 264 & 266)

At Hyams and Turpentine creeks,


Roads across the lower reaches of the Minnamurra River

Including: Minnamurra Lane, Factory Lane, Browns Lane and Swamp Rd.


Swamp Rd can be non-trafficable for periods of up to a week.

Numerous other local roads

Including: Falls Rd, Wyalla Rd, Curramore Rd, Fountaindale Rd, Mt Brandon Rd and Foxground Rd at creek crossings and causeways


Fern St Between the Princes Highway (at Omega) and Gerringong

Sometimes for more than 12 hours.

5. In addition, roads can be cut by landslides during periods of heavy rain. This has occurred on the Princes Highway at Mt Pleasant and at several locations on Jamberoo Mountain Rd.

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ANNEX D - GAUGES MONITORED BY THE KIAMA / SHELLHARBOUR SES LOCAL

HEADQUARTERS

Gauge Name Type AWRC No

Stream Flood Classification Reading Arrangements

Min Mod Maj Macquarie Rivulet – Albion Park

Automatic 214003 Macquarie

Rivulet Manly Hydraulics

Website Macquarie Rivulet – Princes Hwy

214402 Macquarie

Rivulet

DWE

Lake Illawarra – Cudgeree Bay

Automatic 966060 Manly Hydraulics

Website

Little Lake Automatic Manly Hydraulics

Website

Tongarra 214002 Tongarra

Creek

DWE

Jamberoo 214004 Minnamurra

River

DWE

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ANNEX E - DISSEMINATION OF SES FLOOD BULLETINS

The Illawarra South Coast SES Region Headquarters distributes SES Flood Bulletins and other flood related information (including Flood Warnings) to the following regional media outlets: Television Stations:

Station Location WIN TV Wollongong Prime TV Berkeley Capital TEN Canberra, ACT Southern Cross TEN Warrawong ABC TV Wollongong SBS Artarmon Radio Stations:

Station Location Frequency i98 Radio Wollongong 98.1 FM Wave FM Warrawong 96.5 FM ABC Radio Illawarra Wollongong 97.3 FM Power FM Nowra 94.9 FM Ninefourone FM Coniston 94.1 FM VOX FM Wollongong 106.9 FM Newspapers:

Name Location Illawarra Mercury Wollongong Other Agencies:

Name Location Shellharbour City Council. Shellharbour The Council for the Municipality of Kiama Kiama NSW Police Southern Region Command Wollongong SES Local Controller Kiama SES Local Controller Shellharbour RTA – Southern Region Wollongong NSW Ambulance Service – Southern Region Control Centre Wollongong NSW Fire Brigades – Illawarra Area Command Wollongong NSW Rural Fire Service – South Region East Homebush Bay Dept of Community Services – Kiama/Shellharbour Local Area Shellharbour

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ANNEX F - TEMPLATE EVACUATION WARNING MESSAGE FOR [ENTER NAME OF AREA]

Evacuation Warning for [ ] Date/Time of Issue: [ ] Authorised By: [ ] [Insert details of current and forecast flood situation]l It is recommended that you prepare to evacuate/for evacuation within the next [ ] hours. If you leave it later, the roads may be congested or closed. To prepare for evacuation, you should: • Raise belongings by placing them on tables, beds and benches. Put electrical

items on top. Some items may be able to be placed in ceilings. • Gather medicines, personal and financial documents and mementos together to

take with you. • Listen to radio stations [enter station] for further information and to confirm this

warning. • If possible, check to see whether your neighbours need help. • Make arrangements for care of pets or companion animals. If evacuation is necessary: • Turn off the electricity, gas and water. • Take three days’ supply of clothes with you. • If you have a car, drive to the evacuation centre at [ ] (specify

route if appropriate). • If you don’t have a car, buses will operate on normal routes. Special transport can

also be provided on request if necessary, telephone [ ]. • So that you can be accounted for, it is important that you register at the evacuation

centre. • After registering, you may go to the house of a friend or relative. Alternatively,

accommodation will be arranged for you. • The Police will provide security for your property while you are away.

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ANNEX G - ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE EVACUATION OF CARAVAN PARKS AND THE

RELOCATION OF CARAVANS

General

1. The following caravan parks are flood liable:

Shellharbour

a. Lake Windemere Caravan Park: from Bensons Creek.

b. Oakleigh Caravan Park

c. Surfrider Caravan Park

Kiama

d. Easts Beach Caravan Park

e. Kendalls Beach Caravan Park

Caravan Parks

1. Flooding of low-lying caravan parks at Kendalls and Easts beaches as a result of sea-water invasion and local drainage (including flooding of Munna Munnora Creek in the case of East Beach). Such flooding is rare, having last occurred in the mid-1970s.

2. Gerroa Shores and Seven Mile Beach Caravan Park at Gerroa experiences flooding due to Crooked River estuarine flooding. Such flooding is rare and only occurs when the river entrance is blocked by Sand from Seven Mile Beach. Minor nuisance flooding of some van and caravan sites will occur until the river entrance breaks through into the ocean.

3. In the absence of a gauge specific flood warning, Flood Watches and Severe Weather Warnings should be heeded in order to make adequate preparations for the possibility of flooding.

4. Tidal Surge is a potential threat for these caravan parks. Predictive capacity is limited due to the qualitative nature of Severe Weather Warnings.

Advising Procedures

5. Caravan Park proprietors are encouraged to ensure that the owners and occupiers of caravans are:

a. Made aware that the caravan park is flood liable by:

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• Handing a printed notice to occupiers taking up residence. The notice will indicate that the caravan park is liable to flooding and outline the evacuation and van relocation arrangements as detailed in this Annex.

• Displaying this notice prominently in each van.

b. Made aware that if they are expecting to be absent from their vans for extended periods, they must:

• Provide the manager with a key; in a sealed envelope; to the van.

• Provide a contact address and telephone number.

• Inform the manager if a vehicle will be required to relocate the van during flood time.

• Leave any mobile van in a condition allowing it to be towed in an emergency (ie: tyres inflated, jacks wound up, personal effects secured and annexes and lines for water, sewer, electricity and gas readily detachable).

c. Informed when a flood is rising. At this time, occupiers will be advised to:

• Ensure that they have spare batteries for their radios.

• Listen to a local radio station for updated flood information.

• Prepare for evacuation and van relocation.

6. The SES Local Operations Controller will ensure that the managers of caravan parks are advised of flood watches or severe weather warnings and the details of any evacuation order.

Evacuation of Occupants and Relocation of Vans

7. Caravan park proprietors are encouraged to install flood depth indicators and road alignment markers within their caravan parks.

8. When an evacuation order is given:

a. Occupiers of non-movable vans should:

• Secure their vans by tying them down to prevent flotation.

• Isolate power to their vans.

• Collect personal papers, medicines, a change of clothing, toiletries and bedclothes.

• Lift the other contents of their vans as high as possible within the van.

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• Move to a designated evacuation centre at the Police-Citizens Youth Club if they have their own transport, or move to the caravan office to await transport.

b. Where possible, vans that can be moved will be relocated by their owners. Park managers will arrange for the relocation of mobile vans whose owners do not have a vehicle. Council and SES personnel will assist if required and may be able to provide additional vehicles. Vans are to be moved to the following locations:

• Easts Beach Caravan Park: movement from low ground to high land within the park. Relocations will be co-ordinated by the park proprietor with the assistance of the SES.

• Kendalls Beach Caravan Park: movement to local streets and Bonaira St Reserve. Relocations will be co-ordinated by the council with the assistance of the SES.

9. Caravan park managers are encouraged to:

a. Ensure that their caravan park is capable of being evacuated within a reasonable timeframe. Guidance can be provided by SES during the planning stages.

b. Advise the SES Local Operations Controller of:

• The number of people requiring transport.

• Details of any medical evacuations required.

• Whether additional assistance is required to effect the evacuation.

c. Check that no people remain in non-removable vans that are likely to be inundated.

d. Inform the SES Local Operations Controller when the evacuation of the caravan park has been completed.

e. Provide the SES Local Operations Controller with a register of people that have been evacuated.

Return of Occupants and Vans

10. The SES Local Operations Controller, using council resources as necessary, will advise when it is safe for the caravan parks to be re-occupied.

11. Vans will be towed back to the caravan park(s) by van owners or by vehicles and drivers arranged by the park managers. Again, Council and SES personnel will assist if available.

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ANNEX H - EVACUATION ARRANGEMENTS FOR GENERAL EVACUATIONS

Background

1. Some parts of Kiama/Shellharbour may require short-term evacuations because of flooding from river systems or their tributaries within the following areas:

a. Albion Park

b. Albion Park Rail

2. Evacuations may be necessary because of oceanic flooding within the following areas:

a. Warilla

b. Barrack Point

c. Shellharbour

d. Minnamurra

e. Gerroa

Arrangements

3. Control. Evacuations will be controlled by SES during floods, the threat of coastal erosion or threat of oceanic inundation.

Within their respective council areas, evacuations will be controlled by the SES Local Operations Controller and conducted by supporting agency personnel as outlined in Part 2 - Responsibilities.

4. Conduct. Evacuations will be conducted in four phases:

a. Phase 1 – Warning

b. Phase 2 – Withdrawal

c. Phase 3 – Shelter

d. Phase 4 - Return

5. Decision to evacuate.

a. The decision to evacuate. The responsibility for issuing any general evacuation order during flooding rests with the SES Local Operations Controllers who exercises their authority in accordance with Section 22(1) of The State Emergency Service Act 1989. However, the decision to evacuate will usually be made after consultation with the Local

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Emergency Operations Controller and the SES Region Operations Controller.

b. When evacuation should occur. As far as possible, evacuation will be carried out before inundation occurs.

c. Self-motivated evacuation. Some residents may make their own decision to evacuate and move to alternative accommodation using their own transport. Such evacuees must be advised via the media to inform the Police or the SES of their evacuation and their temporary address.

d. Evacuation Centres. When evacuations are likely, the SES Local Operations Controller will advise relevant DoCS personnel so that evacuation centres and welfare support can be set up in timely fashion.

6. PHASE 1 - Warning

a. Evacuation warnings. On the receipt of flood intelligence or other warning products indicating the possibility of flooding, the SES Local Operations Controller will consult as necessary with other emergency managers to determine the level of the threat and the need to consider evacuations. As soon as possible after the decision to evacuate is made, the SES Local Operations Controller will issue evacuation warnings to the ‘at risk’ residents, indicating what people should do before evacuating and when actually doing so.

b. Content of Evacuation Warnings. A template guide to the content of evacuation warning messages is at Annex F. These are disseminated via:

• The radio and TV stations listed in Annex D.

• SES Flood Bulletins

• Door-knocks by emergency service personnel.

• Public address systems from emergency service vehicles.

• Telephone.

7. PHASE 2 – Withdrawal

a. Introduction. Withdrawal involves the actual removal of the community/individuals from dangerous or potentially dangerous areas to safer areas.

b. Movement. Evacuees are to be encouraged to move using their own transport where possible. The SES Local Operations Controllers will arrange transport for those people without their own vehicles.

Some residents may make their own decision to evacuate and move to alternative accommodation using their own transport. Such evacuees must be advised via the media to inform the Police or the SES of their evacuation and their temporary address.

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c. Evacuation routes. Evacuation routes will be communicated to evacuees and management of movement will be vested into the relevant Councils and/or NSW Police undertaking support roles.

d. Animals. Assistance animals (guide dogs, hearing assistance animals, etc) will remain in the care of their owners throughout the evacuation. This includes transport and access into evacuation centres etc. Due to safety restrictions, it may not be possible to allow companion animals to accompany their owners when being transported via aircraft or flood rescue boats. DPI will make separate arrangements for the evacuation and care of companion animals.

e. Doorknocking. Field teams conducting doorknocks will record and report back the following information back to the Operations Centre:

• Addresses and locations of houses doorknocked and/or evacuated.

• The number of occupants.

• Details of support required (such as transport, medical evacuation, assistance to secure house and/or property and raise or move belongings).

• Details of residents who refuse to comply with the evacuation order.

The field teams will then carry out evacuations as required. Details of these premises will be passed to the Lake Illawarra Local Area Command.

f. Refusal to evacuate. Field teams should not waste time dealing with people who are reluctant or refuse to comply with any evacuation order. These cases should be referred to the Local Emergency Management Operations Controller who will arrange for Police to ensure their evacuation.

g. Identification of evacuated premises. An appropriate marking visible from the street is to be used, as directed, to identify those premises that have been evacuated. Details of these premises will be passed to the SES Operations Centre and Lake Illawarra Local Area Command

h. Security. The NSW Police will provide security for evacuated premises/areas.

i. Transport and Storage. Transport and storage of furniture from flood threatened properties will be arranged as time and resources permit.

j. Caravan Parks. The caravan parks known to be flood liable are listed in Annex G, along with arrangements relating to the evacuation of residents and the removal of caravans.

8. PHASE 3 – Shelter

a. Evacuation centres. Evacuees will be taken to or advised to go to the nearest accessible evacuation centre, which may initially be established at the direction of the SES Local Operations Controller but which will be

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managed as soon as possible by the Department of Community Services. Any or all of the following sites may be used as evacuation centres:

Evacuation centres are listed in the Shellharbour/Kiama Local Disaster Plan.

b. Action on arrival. On arrival, evacuees will be:

• registered;

• medically checked, if necessary; and

• provided with their immediate welfare needs.

c. Registration. NSW Police will ensure that evacuees and other displaced persons are registered in accordance with the standard Disaster Victim Registration procedures

Assistance with registration will be provided by persons who have the appropriate training/oversight and capabilities as determined by NSW Police

d. Animal shelter compounds. Animal shelter compounds will be set up for the domestic pets and companion animals of evacuees. These facilities will be coordinated by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI).

Assistance animals are to accompany and/or remain in the care of their owners at all times. This includes transport and access into evacuation centres etc.

e. Assistance for Animals.

Matters relating to the welfare of livestock, companion animals and wildlife (including feeding, rescue and emergency housing) are to be referred to Department of Primary Industries (DPI).

Requests for emergency supply and/or delivery of fodder to stranded livestock, or for livestock

9. PHASE 4 - Return

a. Once it is considered safe to do so, the SES Local Operations Controller will authorise the return of evacuees to their normal or alternative place of residence. This decision will be made in consultation with appropriate officers in regard to matters such as the electrical safety of buildings.

b. The return will be controlled by the SES Local Operations Controller and may be conducted, at his/her request, by DoCS

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ANNEX I - MANAGEMENT OF COASTAL EROSION / INUNDATION

1. THE PROBLEM AND THE AREAS AT RISK

1.1 The coastal erosion / inundation problem in the local government area takes two forms:

a. Undercutting of the seashore, threatening the collapse of dwellings and other buildings.

b. The potential breaking through of the dunes by seawater, causing flooding and isolation of property on the landward side of the dunes.

1.2 The most severe problems of coastal erosion / inundation occur as a result of oceanic storm conditions associated with the passage of East Coast low-pressure systems. These storms may cause temporary sea level rises with large associated waves. The worst erosion is likely when severe weather conditions occur in conjunction with unusually high tides.

1.3 Storm activity is sometimes accompanied by heavy rain causing flooding in the creeks behind the sand dunes. This flooding can be exacerbated by an elevated sea level preventing the escape of floodwaters to the sea.

1.4 The role of the SES as the combat agency for storms does not include coastal erosion and inundation caused by astronomical high tides when severe weather is not actually developing or occurring.

1.5 Warilla Beach has been identified as a coastal erosion hotspot within the Shellharbour City council area.

a. Warilla Beach is located on the south side of the entrance of Lake Illawarra some 15 kilometres south of Wollongong. The main concern at Warilla beach is erosion at the southern end threatening development built on the foredune.

b. Foreshore land along the southern section of Warilla Beach was developed with dwelling mainly in the early 1950’s following subdivision of the land commencing in December 1948. Between 1948 and 1966 the beach area adjacent to the development receded to such an extent that erosion during the 1966 storms threatened private properties and a sewer main servicing the properties.

c. To halt the recession, rock-fill was dumped along the toe of the erosion scrap at the back of the beach over two years from 1966. Maintenance, upgrading and extension of the rock seawall were carried out following the major storm events in 1974 and 1978. The seawall has caused a dramatic reduction in amenity with no beach for most of states of the tide.

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d. The assets presently located behind the seawall include 49 residential dwellings, a refuge centre (previously Warilla Surf Club); four vacant properties purchased by council, a sewer main and open space recreation areas.

2. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS

1.1 Control

a. The SES is the designated combat agency for damage control from storms, including coastal erosion and inundation from storm activity.

b. Within this role and as specified under the State Storm Plan the SES is responsible for the following during and in the period immediately prior to a storm event occurring out at sea:

i Advising the community at risk of the likely problem and actions they should take;

ii The protection of life through the warning and evacuation of residents at risk; and

iii The coordination of the lifting and/or relocation of readily movable household items and commercial stock and equipment.

c. The role of the SES as the combat agency for storms does not include coastal erosion and inundation caused by astronomical high tides when severe weather is not actually developing or occurring.

1.2 DECC will provide ongoing advice to local councils and coastal zone management committees on the formulation and implementation of coastal zone management plans including procedures for addressing coastal processes, coastline hazards and risks, management options and coastal policies.

1.3 BoM will provide Severe Weather Warnings as a product to assist the SES in determining triggers for action.

3. RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 Before the Storm

a. The SES will:

i Consult with councils, Coastal Zone Management Committees, Department of Natural Resources and other agencies during the development of emergency arrangements for the management of coastal erosion / inundation for inclusion in SES Sub-plans and Coastal Zone Management Plans;

ii Prepare, coordinate and deliver community awareness programs and educational material with the assistance of the local councils to ensure

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that people in locations potentially threatened by coastal erosion / inundation understand the threat and its management;

iii Develop and maintain a coastal erosion / inundation intelligence system

b. BoM will:

i Formulate and issue official forecasts and Severe Weather Warnings and provide them to the SES, radio stations and other organisations prior to and during potential and actual coastal erosion events. (Note: Severe Weather Warnings for dangerous surf are issued when onshore waves in the surf zone are expected to reach at least 5 metres within the following 24 hours or when a storm surge of 0.5 metres or greater is anticipated).

c. DECC will:

i Develop and advise on state wide coastal policy, planning and management.

ii Provide ongoing advice to local councils and Coastal Zone Management Committees on coast and estuary management including procedures for addressing coastal hazards, coastal processes and risks, management options and coastal policies.

iii Provide the SES and councils with advice on likely erosion ‘hotspots’ along the New South Wales coastline.

d. Shellharbour City Council and Kiama Municipal Council will:

i Carry out ecologically sustainable planning and management of the coastal zone;

ii Prepare Coastal Zone Management Plans in accordance with the Coastal Protection Act, 1979 including arrangements for the emergency management of coastal erosion (see section 4.3 for more details);

iii Provide SES with copies of coastal hazard and management studies to assist with emergency planning and operational intelligence systems;

iv Consult with the SES and other relevant agencies when developing emergency management arrangements for inclusion in Coastal Zone Management Plans;

v Establish and maintain Coastal Zone Management Committees to facilitate the development of the Coastal Zone Management Plans and ensure that key agencies are represented on such committees;

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vi Assist the SES with community awareness programs to ensure people in locations potentially threatened by coastal erosion understand the threat and its management;

3.2 During the Storm

a. Response operations will be initiated when:

i The BoM issues a severe weather warning for dangerous waves or storm surge (forecast on-shore waves of 5 metres or more, or storm surge of 0.5 metres or more) for the NSW north coast.

ii Response operations may also be initiated by the SES when large storm induced waves are observed locally and no BoM warning has been issued.

b. The SES will:

i Advise local council and other emergency agencies of the likelihood of coastal erosion in the council area.

ii Advise the community at-risk of the likely problem and actions they should take;

iii Coordinate regular reconnaissance at locations identified as being susceptible to coastal erosion / inundation;

iv Coordinate the evacuation of people at risk;

v Coordinate the transport of removable household and business contents (if time and resources permit);

vi Provide a ‘phone-in’ service via 132 500 for the local community to take requests for assistance and give advice as necessary; and

vii Where practicable coordinate the sandbagging of properties at-risk of flooding from coastal inundation.

viii Note the SES is not responsible for controlling or conducting any physical mitigation works to protect properties or structures at risk from coastal erosion, either during or outside the period of storm activity. This includes, but is not limited to:

ix The placement of rocks or other materials on beaches or foreshore areas; and

x The construction of temporary walls made of sandbags, geotechnical tubes or other materials.

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c. Shellharbour City Council and Kiama Municipal Council will:

i Assist the SES with reconnaissance of areas susceptible to coastal erosion / inundation;

ii Where emergency physical mitigation works to protect coastal property or other structures have been identified as being required in a Coastal Zone Management Plan, construct works. Where no Coastal Zone Management Plan exists Councils should seek appropriate technical, legal and environmental advice before constructing or allowing the construction of physical mitigation works to protect coastal property or other structures. These works should ensure protection of beach environments and beach amenity and allow continuing and undiminished access to beaches, headlands and waterways; and

iii Assist the SES with lifting and/or relocating readily moveable household and business contents in areas where coastal storms (likely to result in coastal erosion / inundation) are forecast or occurring.

d. BoM will formulate and issue official forecasts and Severe Weather Warnings and provide them to the SES, radio stations and other organisations prior to and during potential and actual coastal erosion events.

e. Other supporting agencies may be requested to assist where necessary, particularly with warning and evacuation tasks.

3.3 After the Storm

f. The SES will:

i Assign personnel to gather intelligence in areas susceptible to coastal erosion/inundation;

ii Review and update the arrangements for managing coastal erosion/inundation; and

iii Liaise with DECC to obtain information on the impact of storm events on coastal properties, once the storm has abated.

g. Shellharbour City Council and Kiama Municipal Council will:

i Liaise with DECC to determine any changes to the coastal zone and any new areas at risk following storms at sea;

ii Maintain and review council Coastal Zone Management Plans in consultation with other stakeholders; and

iii Review and update changes to the emergency action plan for coastal erosion in the Coastal Zone Management Plan; and

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iv Remove and/or mitigate the impact of temporary physical protective measures on the beach if applicable.

h. DECC will provide the SES and council with updates on the current state of the coastal zone and any new areas at risk following a storm event.

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ANNEX J - FLOOD INTELLIGENCE COLLECTION SHEET

Date: Unit: Observer: Contact No:

Time Location Description

Example

Time Location Description

0900 0900 1100

Smith St, Karodan

Thomas St, Karodan Benson Hwy

Six houses in lower end of Smith St flooded to one metre over-floor Thomas Street beginning to flood. Water coming across from Regal Park Benson Hwy not flooded at Fords Bridge

o Complete sheet by recording the time of observation, location of observation and flood effects observed o Remember it is just as important to record the observation of effects that are not occurring as it is to record the

effects that are occurring o Return completed sheet to Planning Officer of the OMT. Planning section to collate sheets and forward to

Region Headquarters

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MAP 1 - SHELLHARBOUR LGA & RIVER BASIN

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MAP 2 - KIAMA LGA & RIVER BASIN

Documents

KIAMA / SHELLHARBOUR CITY LOCAL FLOOD PLAN A SUB-PLAN … · 2016. 12. 13. · Flood Plan . A plan that deals specifically with flooding and is a sub-plan of a Disaster Plan. Flood