NATURAL HAZARDS EMERGENCY RISK …...Infestation o Animal - rodents o Insect – plague locust o Plant – blue green algae - Parthenium Weed Risks identified The risks associated

Upper Hunter Shire Council

NATURAL HAZARDS

EMERGENCY RISK MANAGEMENT REPORT

November 2006

Contents

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ________________________________________________________ 1 Hazards identified ___________________________________________________________ 1 Risks identified ______________________________________________________________ 1 Consultation ________________________________________________________________ 2 Actions ____________________________________________________________________ 3

2. SUMMARY OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT PLAN __________________________________ 4

3 ERM CONTEXT STATEMENT _________________________________________________ 5 Aim _______________________________________________________________________ 5 Hazard Identification _________________________________________________________ 5 Study Area _________________________________________________________________ 6 Area description _____________________________________________________________ 6 Assets ____________________________________________________________________ 6 Vulnerable communities _______________________________________________________ 7 Legislation _________________________________________________________________ 9 Policy ____________________________________________________________________ 10 Scope ____________________________________________________________________ 10 Resources ________________________________________________________________ 10 Risk perception ____________________________________________________________ 10 Process Hierarchy __________________________________________________________ 11 Timelines _________________________________________________________________ 11 Documentation _____________________________________________________________ 11 Deliverables _______________________________________________________________ 11 Stakeholders ______________________________________________________________ 11 Communication ____________________________________________________________ 13 Consultation _______________________________________________________________ 13 Monitoring and review _______________________________________________________ 13

4. RISKS ___________________________________________________________________ 14 BUSHFIRE ________________________________________________________________ 14 FLOOD ___________________________________________________________________ 15 SEVERE STORM – Wind, Rain, Hail, Electrical, Tornado ____________________________ 16 LAND SLIP ________________________________________________________________ 18 EARTHQUAKE ____________________________________________________________ 19 SNOW STORM ____________________________________________________________ 21 HEATWAVE _______________________________________________________________ 22 LAND GALE _______________________________________________________________ 23 DROUGHT ________________________________________________________________ 24 INFESTATION - Animal ______________________________________________________ 25

6 RISK TREATMENT _________________________________________________________ 43

APPENDIX 1 __________________________________________________________________ 44 AIM ______________________________________________________________________ 44 IMPLEMENTATION _________________________________________________________ 44 METHODOLOGY ___________________________________________________________ 45 TIMETABLE _______________________________________________________________ 45 COMMUNICATION _________________________________________________________ 45 REVIEW OF EXISTING DOCUMENTS __________________________________________ 45 NATURAL HAZARDS _______________________________________________________ 46 CONSULTATION ___________________________________________________________ 46 MONITORING _____________________________________________________________ 47

APPENDIX 2 __________________________________________________________________ 48

APPENDIX 3 __________________________________________________________________ 58

APPENDIX 4 __________________________________________________________________ 59

APPENDIX 5 __________________________________________________________________ 60

APPENDIX 6 __________________________________________________________________ 71

APPENDIX 7 ______________________________________________________________ 72

APPENDIX 8 _________________________________________________________________ 105

Emergency Risk Management Report – November 2006 Page 1

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Introduction The Upper Hunter Shire Council acknowledges the support of the Commonwealth and New South Wales Governments through the Natural Disaster Mitigation Programme. By following the ‘Implementation Guide for Emergency Risk Management (NSW)’, this report concentrates on the natural hazards which may affect the Upper Hunter Shire Council area. While acknowledging that technological and biological hazards may also impact in the Upper Hunter Shire Council Area, these risks are outside the scope of this report. For the identified hazards, the possible risks were analysed and appropriate risk statements developed. Each risk was tested against the proposition “if and when this problem impacts on people, property, animals and/or the environment, would it have the potential to require a significant and coordinated multi agency response”. Risk treatment plans were developed for the risks with a positive outcome when tested against the proposition. The risks reflect the communities concerns while the risk treatment plans incorporate the community’s expectations by identifying appropriate risk reduction and risk management strategies including the prevention, preparedness and response phases of Emergency Management. The LEMC must monitor the ongoing progress of the agencies in implementing the risk treatment plans.

Hazards identified The natural hazards identified include:

Bush/grass fire Flood Severe storm Heatwave Land gale Drought Landslip Earthquake Snow Infestation

o Animal - rodents o Insect – plague locust o Plant – blue green algae

- Parthenium Weed Risks identified The risks associated with the identified hazards were assessed to identify those which could require a multi-agency response. Risk Treatment options were developed where the level of risk was assessed as extreme or high. The natural hazards identified at the community consultation meetings that posed the greatest risk to life and property were bushfire and flood, based on the history of these events in the Upper Hunter. The Elements at Risk are shown in Appendix 6 (Page 71).


Bushfires in or adjacent to the Goulburn River National Park, Coolah Tops National Park, along the Great Dividing Range, in or adjacent to the Barrington Tops National Park and State Forest were identified as posing the greatest risk. Fires from unauthorised burn offs, camping fires and arson were identified at the community meetings. Adequate planning, well equipped and trained fire services, hazard reduction, roadside slashing and community education were seen as mitigating the hazard. Floods affect the urban centres of Aberdeen, Blandford, Murrurundi and Scone. Outside of the urban areas, the risk to life identified was through people entering floodwaters to cross rivers and streams. The swift flowing waters in the headwaters of local rivers and streams was a major hazard raised at the community meetings. The community listed the Aberdeen levee bank, channel lining of Fig Tree Gully, the Parsons Gully Bridge replacement, the Murrurundi levee bank and the flood warning system as flood mitigation works in place. Flood Plain Management Studies for Murrurundi, Blandford and Scone and the adoption by Council of Flood Planning Levels has limited the risk of flooding. Adequate planning and community education were seen as an ongoing need to reduce the risk to life and property. Property throughout the Upper Hunter is at risk from severe storms, land gales or earthquakes. No particular area or building was identified as bearing a higher risk, but buildings erected since 1994 are required to be constructed to resist earthquakes and all new buildings are subject to building standards to withstand predicted wind strengths. Fog, while recognised as a natural hazard, was not considered to require a coordinated, multi-agency response. While drought has a major economic effect on the Upper Hunter, the slow onset precludes the need for a response by the emergency services. The need for welfare assistance requires a state or federal response and is beyond the scope of the local resources. The loss of lifelines (power blackouts, road closures, water supply failures) was raised at the community meetings with the extent of power blackouts a major concern in the Merriwa area. At the Merriwa community consultation meeting the concern raised was that the area was serviced by a single feed line from Muswellbrook and that up to 30km of this line was susceptible to damage by fire. These concerns were referred to Energy Australia and the company advised;

1. The Muswellbrook – Denman line is being duplicated giving full redundancy for this section. 2. Telemetry has been installed on the Denman – Merriwa section to give immediate warning of

a fault and its location within 200 metres. 3. Power can be restored to the Merriwa CBD within 2.5 hours utilising imported generators. 4. The company considers that only the Devils Elbow section of the Denman to Merriwa line is

vulnerable to bushfire. Animals are at risk of death or injury from bushfires, floods and severe storms. The thoroughbred industry requires consideration during evacuation due to the high value of the horses involved, as does the evacuation of domestic pets. Consultation This report was developed following consultation meetings in Merriwa, Moonan Flat, Murrurundi and Scone as well as two meetings with the LEMC and regular meetings of the Project Management Group. The issues raised at the consultation meeting are shown in dot point in Appendix 2 (Page 48). The draft report was circulated to all agency members involved in the consultation meetings and to the LEMC members. Their comments and feedback have been incorporated in this report.


Actions For all risks associated with the natural hazards identified, ongoing planning and community education were considered the major risk treatments available. The LEMC must take a leadership role to drive the continual review of all the agencies local plans, at least annually and after each event. Community education programs need to target new arrivals, especially in the rural areas, as well as ongoing reinforcement of the safety precautions the residents can undertake. The Upper Hunter Shire Council review of the flood management studies for Scone and Murrurundi/Blandford as well as the proposed flood management study for Aberdeen will further enhance the understanding of the effects of flooding in the Upper Hunter. Any planning controls and mitigation works flowing from these studies will reduce the risk from future floods. This is an Upper Hunter Shire Council document and through ongoing consultations with the LEMC, should be regularly updated to take into account the identification of further hazards and risks as will as future mitigation works undertaken within the area.


2. SUMMARY OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT PLAN The Project Management Plan as endorsed by the Project Management Group is shown in Appendix 1. The methodology adopted is as per the “Implementation Guide for Emergency Risk Management” and the project conducted in accordance with the policies and procedures of the Upper Hunter Shire Council. The project is to review the natural hazards within the Shire to identify, analyse and evaluate risks with potential to require a significant and co-ordinated multi agency response and to develop and implement the emergency risk management process for the Upper Hunter. Excluded from the study are technological and biological hazards. The Management Plan identified the existing documents to be reviewed, the stakeholders to be consulted and details the community consultation process. All documents and reports produced during the Emergency Risk Management process are retained by council to provide a clear record of the project. The Emergency Risk Management process is derived from the NSW State Emergency & Rescue Management Act (SERM Act). This project will only consider natural risks that have the potential to develop into an emergency as defined by the SERM Act. The Emergency Risk Management process facilitates the identification, analysis, evaluation and treatment of risks to the Upper Hunter Community from natural hazards and requires communication and consultation with all stakeholders and the local community as well as the establishment of a mechanism to document, monitor and review the process. The Project Management Plan details how the process will be implemented for the Upper Hunter Shire Council area. The project is funded under the Natural Disaster Mitigation Programme (NDMP) and has been approved by both the Commonwealth and New South Wales Governments in the 2005/2006 round of funding.


3 ERM CONTEXT STATEMENT

3.1 Identified problems Aim The Emergency Risk Management process is derived from the NSW State Emergency & Rescue Management Act (SERM Act). This project is to review the natural hazards within the Upper Hunter Shire to identify, analyse and evaluate risks with potential to require a significant and co-ordinated multi agency response and to develop and implement the emergency risk management process for the Upper Hunter. The existing documents and studies are to be reviewed including the local Displans, flood plans and Bush Fire Management Plans. This project will only consider natural risks that have the potential to develop into an emergency as defined by the SERM Act. “Emergency” – An emergency due to the actual or imminent occurrence (such as fire, flood, storm, earthquake, explosion, accident, epidemic or warlike action) which:

a. endangers, or threatens to endanger, the safety or health of persons or animals in the State, or;

b. destroys or damages, or threatens to destroy or damage, any property in the State, being an emergency which requires a significant and coordinated response. (Source: SERM Act)

For the purposes of the definition of emergency, property in the State includes any part of the environment of the State. Accordingly, a reference in the Act to:

a. Threats or dangers to property includes a reference to threats or dangers to the environment, and

b. The protection of property includes a reference to the protection of the environment. (Source: SERM Act).

Treatment strategies for the risks identified will remain the responsibility of the agency/s identified in the DISPLAN. Hazard Identification The ERM process will identify a range of hazards, situations and conditions, which may impact on the Upper Hunter local government area. Applying the aim of the review of natural hazards will facilitate identifying which problems fall within the scope by requiring an answer to this key question. “If and when this hazard impacts on people, property, animals and/or the environment, would it have the potential to require a significant and coordinated multi-agency response?” If the answer is no the problem will be documented in the Risk Treatment Plan and referred to the relevant agency. All other problems will be included in the ERM process and subjected to analysis and evaluation.


Study Area The study area is the Upper Hunter Local Government area comprising an amalgamation of the former Scone Shire Council with parts of the Merriwa and Murrurundi Shire Councils. It occupies the Upper Hunter Valley of NSW and is 300 km north of Sydney. The urban centres of Aberdeen (1,710), Merriwa (987), Murrurundi (791) and Scone (4,565) contain the bulk of the residential, commercial and industrial development within the Upper Hunter Local Government area. Villages include Blandford (134), Borambil, Bunnan, Cassilis (113), Gundy, Main Camp, Moonan Flat, Parkville (270) and Wingen (166). The total population of the Upper Hunter Local Government area is approximately 14,450. Area description The Goulburn River, Hunter River, Pages River and their tributaries are the main waterways within the Shire. Major transport routes through the area are the New England Highway and Golden Highway as well as the Great Northern Railway. Barrington Tops National Park, The Goulburn River National Park, Coolah Tops National Park, Lake Glenbawn, the Liverpool Range and Mt. Royal Range are major features of the area. Geographically the shire varies from mountainous ranges in the east through river flat and valleys to the flat cropping country in the west and comprised 810,145 hectares. Major rural developments are the thoroughbred horse studs and Ellerston Station but the bulk of the land use is devoted to producing beef cattle, sheep and cereal crops. Assets Major infrastructure and assets, both rural and urban includes, but not limited to;

Highway /road network Railway infrastructure Water supply systems Glenbawn Dam Sewerage treatment works Abattoirs Airport Saleyards Residences Industrial areas Livestock Thoroughbred horse studs Ellerston Station


Vulnerable communities Vulnerable communities Reason for vulnerability Comments Hospitals Merriwa Merriwa District Mackenzie St – 15 beds Murrurundi Wilson Memorial O’Connell St – 18 beds Scone Scott Memorial Stafford St – 42 beds (Authorised bed numbers at March 2006)

Sick and immobile patients Susceptibility to communicable diseases

Require specialised transport Helipads available for the Newcastle Helicopter Rescue Service Air Ambulance Service is available at Scone.

Aged Care Facilities Aberdeen Upper Hunter Village Association, Eldon St. 6 units Merriwa Aged Hostel, Marquet St. 15 units Murrurundi Murravale, Haydon St, 25 units Liverpool Lodge, Liverpool St, 8 units Scone Strathearn Village, 4 Stafford St. 80 beds William Dumaresq, Birrell St. 21 beds Strathearn Village

Susan St, 14 units 34 Park St. 8 units ‘Villa Marie” Cnr. Waverley St and

Gundy Rd. 11 units Joan St. 14 units St Lukes Close, Liverpool St. 15

units Aged units, 20 Birrell St. 12 units Aged units, Stafford St. 8 units

Wheelchair dependant occupants Physical disabilities Dementia patients Mobility challenged patients

Wheelchair adapted transport required

Schools Aberdeen St Josephs High School, Segenhoe St. 626 students, 79 staff. Public School, Segenhoe St. 220 students, 20 staff Belltrees Public School. 10 students, 1 staff Blandford Public School. 35 students, 5 staff Cassilis Public School Ellerston Public School. 25 students, 2 staff.

Closed environment

Communicable diseases


Vulnerable communities Reason for vulnerability Comments Merriwa Convent School, Marquet St. 61 students, 5 staff High School, Bow St. 230 students, 42 staff Primary School, Mackenzie St. 114 students, 9 staff. Moonan Flat Public School. 3 students, 2 staff Murrurundi Primary School, New England Highway. 69 Students, 7 staff Rouchel Public School. 4 students, 3 staff Scone Grammar School, 60 Kingdon St. 316 students, 45 staff. High School, Gundy Road. 472 students, 50 staff Primary School, 110 Liverpool St. 500 students, 45 staff. St. Mary’s School, Short St. 168 students, 17 staff (Enrolments at March 2006) Pre-schools Aberdeen Aberdeen Pre-school, Bedford St. 20 children, 4 staff Merriwa Merriwa Pre-school, 43 Bow St. Murrurundi Murrurundi Pre-school, RSL Hall, New England highway. 20 children, 2 staff Scone ABC Learning Centre 72 Main St – 29 children, 7 staff Scone Pre-school Cooper St – 130 children, 15 staff (Enrolments at March 2006)

Very young children Control difficulties

Communicable diseases

Entertainment venues and accommodation Aberdeen. Two hotels, two clubs, a motel and caravan park. Cassilis A hotel and club Gundy Hotel Merriwa Two hotels, two clubs, a motel and caravan park. Moonan Flat

Congregation of people Campers vulnerable to severe storms and land gales Guests at entertainment venues may be affected by alcohol or drugs


Vulnerable communities Reason for vulnerability Comments Hotel and caravan park Murrurundi Three hotels, two clubs, two motels and caravan Park. National Parks Numerous camping reserves Scone Five hotels, three clubs, three motels and two caravan parks Wingen Hotel Lifelines Power Communications Roads and Rail

Poles and equipment vulnerable to fire May fail during blackouts, Scone exchange a pre 1994 masonry building Subject to closure and/or damage in floods, bushfires and severe storms.

Residents concerns about the single line feed to Merriwa has been raised with Energy Australia.

Critical infrastructure Hospitals Merriwa, Murrurundi & Scone. Police Stations Merriwa, Murrurundi & Scone Sewerage Treatment Works Murrurundi and Scone

Pre 1994 masonry buildings may be damaged in an earthquake. Located in floodplain

Economic production Agriculture Thoroughbred Industry Primo Abattoirs

Vulnerable to fire, flood, drought and infestations Vulnerable to fire. Effected by drought

Agricultural is the Shire’s major industry, Therefore the economic effects can be significant. Relocation of valuable horses may be required. Large labour employer.

3.2 Process Limitations The ERM process is limited to within the scope of the projects aims. The following limitations influence the ERM process: Legislation


All treatment options must be legal and fully comply with the following legislation.

State Emergency & Rescue Management Act 1989 (as amended) Local Government Act 1993 Rural Fires Act 1997 State Emergency Services Act 1989 Merriwa Local Environment Plan 1992 Murrurundi Local Environment Plan 1993 Scone Local Environment Plan 1986

Policy The policies of the following organisations will be taken into account while developing the ERM process.

State Emergency Management Committee Hunter District Management Committee Upper Hunter Local Emergency Management Committee Upper Hunter Shire Council

Scope The process of compiling the ERM Plan will allow a systematic evaluation of the natural disaster hazards and the associated risks within the Upper Hunter Shire. The completed plan will identify the means to effectively mitigate the impact of natural disasters. The adequacy of the local resources will also be canvassed. Resources Funding for the project has been sourced from;

Australian Government = one third NSW Government = one third Upper Hunter Shire Council = one third

The human and organisational resources of the Upper Hunter Shire Council will be utilised for the project. Where possible, the resources of the stakeholders will also be utilised. The primary stakeholders in the ERM project are represented on the Local Emergency Management Committee and will contribute their expertise to the project. Other stakeholders are not based within the Upper Hunter and therefore may not be able to fully participate in the project. The internet may be utilised to seek the views of stakeholders and for research into natural disasters mitigation strategies. The size of the Upper Hunter area and remoteness of some communities will hinder the ERM process. To encourage the participation of the local community and to facilitate the collection of information, community meeting will be held at various venues throughout the area. A draft report will be circulated to all stakeholders to encourage feedback. Outside resources to supplement to local resources that are available to the neighbouring districts will be identified as part of the process. Risk perception


The risk perception of individuals or communities differs and may be influenced by such factors as; whether they can control the risk; whether exposure to the risk is voluntary whether the risk is familiar the potential for catastrophes whether the consequences are greatly feared future or unforeseen effects who is a risk and who may benefit

The consultation process will allow for agreement to be reached on the perceived risks of each identified hazard.

3.3 Management framework Process Hierarchy The Upper Hunter Local Emergency Management Committee has resolved to establish an Emergency Risk Management Project for natural hazards within the Upper Hunter Shire Council area. The LEMC at the February 16, 2006 meeting endorsed the project management group consisting of Paul Gallagher (LEMO), Coleen Pinkerton (Assistant LEMO) and Kevin Bell (ERM Co-ordinator). Other stakeholders will be utilised as and when required to progress the project. The project management group is a sub-committee of the Local Emergency Management Committee and will report to the LEMC meeting in Scone on June 8. The final report will be delivered to the DEMC. The project management group is a sub-committee of the LEMC. The LEMC and its sub-committees are under legal protection under Section 60KA & Section 62 of the State Emergency & Rescue Management Act 1989. Timelines The timetable for the project forms part of the Project Management Plan. The timelines can only be achieved with the full cooperation of the stakeholders and the timely availability of the information required. The plan calls for six project management group meeting and four stakeholder meetings with the draft document presented to the LEMC on June 8, 2006. The final document is to be submitted to the DEMC by July 7, 2006. Documentation The Emergency Risk Management Co-ordinator shall be responsible for the documentation of the emergency risk management process and reporting to the LEMO. Deliverables The Emergency Risk Management Co-ordinator shall provide fortnightly reports to LEMO, minutes of stakeholder meetings, draft document by June 8, 2006 and final document by July 7, 2006. Stakeholders

Primary Stakeholders - NSW Police - NSW Ambulance - NSW Fire Brigade


- Rural Fire Service - NSW State Emergency Service - Volunteer Rescue Associations - National Parks & Wildlife Service - Upper Hunter Shire Council

Other Stakeholders

- Department of Community Services - Department of Primary Industries - Rural Land Protection Boards - State Forests - Australian Rail Track Corporation - Roads and Traffic Authority - Hunter & New England Health - Telstra - Energy Australia - Upper Hunter Weeds Authority

Support Organisations

- Red Cross Society - Country Women’s Association - Apex Clubs - Lions Clubs - Rotary Clubs - Australian Civil Air Patrol - Scone Chamber of Commerce - Tourist Committees - Local Progress Associations


Communication All agencies represented on the Local Emergency Management Committee and Upper Hunter Shire Council personal have been advised either verbally or by Email of the project and their cooperation requested. Consultation The relevant stakeholders will be invited to attend stakeholder meeting at:

Merriwa ( Borambil, Cassilis & Merriwa communities) Moonan Flat ( Belltrees, Ellerston, Glenrock & Moonan communities) Murrurundi (Blandford, Murrurundi & Timor communities) Scone (Aberdeen, Bunnan, Gundy, Parkville, Rouchel, Scone & Wingen communities)

These meetings may be held in conjunction with Bush Fire Management Committee communication meetings scheduled for Merriwa, Murrurundi and Scone. Monitoring and review The monitoring and review process is detailed in Appendix 3 (Page 58).

3.4 Risk Evaluation Criteria A risk evaluation will be undertaken within the Upper Hunter local government area. The consequences of risks to be examined in broad terms include;

Any reasonably preventable risk resulting in loss of life or harm to human health is unacceptable.

Any reasonably preventable risk resulting in moderate property loss and property damage is unacceptable

Any reasonably preventable risk resulting in moderate damage to the environment is unacceptable.

Any reasonably preventable risk resulting in moderate loss of life or harm to animals is unacceptable.

In considering what is reasonably preventable the project management committee adopted the assessment criteria listed on Form 7 Treatment Options Evaluation from the Implementation Guide for Emergency Management Committees, which are:

Jurisdictional authority Manageability Equity Timing Leverage Cost Administrative efficiency Continuity of effects Compatibility Effects of the environment Risk creation Public and pressure group reaction

The elements at risk are shown in Appendix 6 on page 71


4. RISKS

4.1 Hazards description The natural hazards identified as possibly affecting the Upper Hunter are shown in the following templates. BUSHFIRE FACTORS DESCRIPTION History There is an extensive history of bush fires throughout the shire.

a. Section 44 fires, Middlebrook, Rouchel, Barrington Tops in November 2002 b. Goulburn River National Park fire, Merriwa December 1997. c. Donalds Creek to Moonan fire, Christmas 2000 d. Rouchel fires October 2002. Lightning strikes are a major cause in timbered areas. Arson is a growing problem

Intensity Potentially big in hot, dry weather. Can be fast moving on a hot day fanned by strong wind.

Extent Majority of the shire area is at risk. Pasture and cropping areas in very dry times. Timbered hilly and mountainous country through the shire area throughout the warmer months.

Speed of onset No warning, most likely to occur in hot, dry, windy weather, several hours to many days duration

Frequency interval Fires occur in every bush fire season. Manageability Prior = Hazard reduction, fire breaks, equipment maintenance

On Set = Public warnings, vigilance Liverpool Range Zone Bush Fire Management Committee

Secondary hazards Power transmission lines damaged Road closures, damaged bridges Injured animals. Pasture loss Forests destroyed Tourism affected

Comments Changes to legislation affecting the development control processes, bush fire prone land mapping, bush fire hazard reduction works and native vegetation laws all impact on efforts to reduce the bush fire hazard. Reference should be made to the Liverpool Range Zone Bushfire Management Plan and to the Animal Health Emergency Sub-Plan.


FLOOD FACTORS DESCRIPTION History Major floods occurred in 1949, 1954, 1955, 1971, 1976, 1982, 1992, 1996,

and 2000. Primarily affected are the towns of Aberdeen, Murrurundi and Scone as well as the floodplains of the Hunter River, Page River, Kingdon Ponds and Dart Brook.

Intensity River banks over toped, low ground & houses flooded. The Scone Flood Study predicts the probable maximum flood (PMF) flood levels to be 2m to 3m above the 100 year ARI flood levels.

Extent Hunter, Goulburn, Pages and Kingdon Ponds valleys. In 1992, 20 dwellings in Scone were affected. The Scone Flood Study predictions are that water will enter 22 buildings in a 1 in 20 year event, 100 buildings in a 1 in 100 year event and 436 buildings in the PMF. (Scone FPMS and Plan 1999) Farms and up to 30 dwellings are flood liable in the Blairmore area. A maximum of 80 houses require evacuation in Aberdeen during a PMF (Scone Local Flood Plan, 1996) The Murrurundi Floodplain Management Study predictions are the floodwaters will enter 2 buildings in Blandford in a 1 in 20 year event, 4 buildings in Blandford and 56 buildings in Murrurundi during a 1 in 100 year event while 52 buildings in Blandford and 190 buildings in Murrurundi would be inundated in the PMF. (Murrurundi FPMS-1998) Only minor flooding has been reported at Merriwa and Cassilis.

Speed of onset Less than one hour for the Pages River at Murrurundi and Fig tree Gully in Scone, other streams, 2 to 12 hours warning. Duration of several hours to two days is possible.

Frequency interval Ant time but on average, once every 10 years Manageability Prior = Levee banks protect Aberdeen and Murrurundi

Onset = General warnings to landowners, door knock vulnerable urban areas, close affected roads. Future = Flood Plain Management Plans

Secondary hazards Pollution Contaminated water Evacuations and emergency accommodation Isolation Loss of crops and rural production.

Comments The SES Flood Plan details the SES’s roles and responsibilities during floods. The DPI’s role is detailed in the Animal Health Emergency Sub-Plan and the Flood Emergencies section of the State Agriculture and Animal Services Plan. The flooding due to a failure of Glenbawn Dam was

FLOODING IN LIVERPOOL STREET, SCONE not considered as part of this study into the natural hazards in the Upper Hunter area.


SEVERE STORM – Wind, Rain, Hail, Electrical, Tornado FACTORS DESCRIPTION History Up to 10% of the world’s tornadoes occur in Australia.

Severe flash flooding in the Murrurundi area occurred in January 1996 when the Adelaide St. levee broke allowing the Pages River to flood the CBD while on Warlands Creek a house was destroyed and one life was lost. Tornadoes have struck Scone east of Oxford Road, Allen Cunningham Drive and at Halcolm Hill. A severe storm hit Merriwa on 12th February 2004. In a neighbouring local government area, the 1996 Singleton hail storm caused damage in excess of $150m.

Intensity Wind storm = Thunderstorm with wind gusts over 90km/h Rain storm = Thunderstorm with intense rain causing flash flooding Hail storm = Large hail above 2cm in diameter causing building or crop damage Electrical storm = Dry thunderstorm with lightning strikes Tornadoes = Intense, localised, funnel-shaped vortex with wind speeds between 120km/h to 400km/h.

Extent Small scale affecting areas a few kilometres across. Can affect an entire urban area.

Speed of onset Little warning, short duration, mostly between October to March Frequency interval Annually Manageability Issue severe weather warnings. Close affected roads.

Encourage actions to minimise risk to life and reduce property damage. Secondary hazards Damage to buildings

Fallen trees Fallen power lines Loss of communications Flash flooding of Page River at Murrurundi Flash flooding of Figtree Gully in Scone. Flying debris Road closures Small communities or farms isolated Hail damage to roofs and windows Injuries due to hail or broken glass. Fatalities due to lightning strikes Grass and bush fires due to lightning strikes


Comments

Storm Radar coverage from Williamtown. http://mirror.bom.gov.au/products/IDR042.shtm

SES VOLUNTEERS REMOVING FALLEN TREE


LAND SLIP FACTORS DESCRIPTION History Landslips have occurred on the steep slopes above Moonan, one

affecting the Scone – Gloucester road. A rock fall at Belah Cutting caused one injury and damaged a car. The Liverpool Range above Murrurundi is also susceptible

Intensity Tonnes of soil, rocks and vegetation slipping down a slope. Extent Each land slips affect an area of less than 1 hectare with movement

down slope of 100m to 200m. Area susceptible is rural grazing land. Road and rail network can be affected.

Speed of onset No warning, occurs mainly after a prolonged rain event. Frequency interval Unlikely Manageability Road inspections in susceptible area. Secondary hazards Road or rail closure

Vehicle accident due to landslip Flooding if water course blocked

Comments Signs of an imminent landslip include ground cracks or bulges as well as leaning trees and fences.


EARTHQUAKE FACTORS DESCRIPTION History The 1989 Newcastle earthquake, seismic activity in the Hunter Valley in

more recent years and subsequent seismic zonation has revealed a history of earthquakes affecting the Hunter Valley since records were commenced in the early 1800s.

Intensity Generally less that 6 on the Richter Scale Extent An earthquake may affect the entire area. The built environment and

infrastructure is most susceptible to damage. Speed of onset No warning, Lasting only a few seconds with lesser strength aftershocks

possible. Frequency interval The probability of a earthquake is low Manageability Since 1994 all building are required to be constructed to resist earthquakes Secondary hazards Death & injuries due to building collapse.

Damage to infrastructure Subsidence Land slip

Comments In a reference to the Newcastle Earthquake, “The most likely cause was by readjustments along the Hunter-Mooki Thrust, a curved fault running from Newcastle and through Maitland, Murrurundi, Quirindi, Narrabri and Mackay. The fault is sporadically active due to strong easterly compression from the expanding Pacific Ocean floor. (http://hsc.csu.edu.au/earth_environment/core/tectonic/9-2-4/ees9.2.4html).


Professor I.R. Plimer, writing in the Newcastle Herald 30/12/1989 refers to the Hunter-Mooki Thrust as being sporadically active. “While this fault is almost dormant, slight readjustment will result in further minor earthquakes”. The Hunter-Mooki Thrust passes through the shire as shown on the attached map. (From a paper presented to the Society for Organic Petrology in 2004 by C.F.K. Diessel.)


SNOW STORM FACTORS DESCRIPTION History Snow falls are an annual event on the higher reaches of the shire. 25 July

1965 entire shire covered in snow, about 2cms in Scone. Snow falls on the Barrington Tops and Liverpool Range are a regular feature of winter. Tourists access to the snow is a problem

Intensity Generally of one day or less intensity with falls up to one metre Extent Barrington Tops, Tomalla and parts of the Liverpool Range are affected.

Less that 50 residents live in the area but snow falls attract a large number of visitors. Snow may close the New England Highway at Murrurundi as well as the Scone – Gloucester roads.

Speed of onset 24 hour weather warning Frequency interval Annually, each winter Manageability All buildings should comply with AS 1170.3 - Snow Loads & AS 1170.3

Supplementary 1 – Snow Load Commentary. Road closures as required. Secondary hazards Missing persons in snow ground

Roof collapse (one family affected) Vehicle accident in snow People marooned by snow

Comments Road closure procedures have been developed for the Scone – Gloucester Roads. (Scone Road Reports, 2005)


HEATWAVE FACTORS DESCRIPTION History November 1944, Scone recorded 11 days of above 380 temperatures.

(Source = resident) Intensity Extended period of very high (40o +) summer temperatures Extent In Australia during the 20th Century, heatwaves caused more deaths than

any other natural hazard (except for disease epidemics). Elderly or chronically ill are most at risk

Speed of onset 24 hour weather warning Frequency interval Unlikely Manageability Prior = record location of elderly and chronically ill.

On set = monitor at risk residents Secondary hazards Electrical failure due to overload

Water supply failure Comments The increased availability of air conditioning has reduced the community

concern about heatwaves although concern re climate change is evident.


LAND GALE FACTORS DESCRIPTION History In 1994 land gales lashed Victoria, NSW & ACT for several days with winds

up to 145km/h. In Melbourne 500,000 homes were blacked out and hundreds damaged

Intensity Land gales are gale force (62km/h or greater) winds over the land. Extent Land gales usually affect a very much larger area than thunderstorms and

last for up to several days, often causing significant damage Speed of onset 24 hour weather warning Frequency interval Unlikely Manageability Severe wind warnings Secondary hazards Blackouts

Flying debris Roof damage

Comments No significant damage has been reported locally from land gales


DROUGHT FACTORS DESCRIPTION History Droughts are a part of the climatic characteristics of the area with severe

droughts occurring in the 1960’s, 1980’s and 2000’s. Intensity As the drought worsens, the effects magnify across the shire. Crops fail

and livestock is sold off or agisted. Incomes fall or disappear and the local economy shrinks.

Extent May affect the entire shire and last for several years. Speed of onset Slowly develops Frequency interval Likely Manageability Preparation, fodder reserves Secondary hazards Bushfires

Dust storms Breathing difficulty for infirm Total loss of income Can occur with a heatwave Water restrictions Failure of Murrurundi water supply

Comments The local emergency services advise that have not had to respond to drought hazards in the past other than bushfires.


INFESTATION - Animal FACTORS DESCRIPTION History Mice plague in 1993 caused losses exceeding $100m in Southern

Australia. Mice are responsible for severe economic, social & environmental damage to the agricultural community

Intensity More than 750 mice per hectare. Extent Can last for up to six months. May affect entire shire, mainly in cropping

areas. Speed of onset Several weeks warning Frequency interval Mice plagues in grain areas occur every four years on average Manageability Baiting programs Secondary hazards Crop loss

Destroying electrical equipment Business effected by spoilt stock Damage to stored grain Community health Contaminated food

Comments


INFESTATION - Insect FACTORS DESCRIPTION History Serious damage occurred to crops and pasture west of Merriwa in the 1960’s

due to plague locust. Recent locust plagues have passed south of the Merriwa area.

Intensity Hugh numbers can cause significant damage Extent May affect entire shire, mainly in cropping and pasture areas. Speed of onset Can occur overnight. Frequency interval

Infestations occur approximately every decade

Duration Several weeks in the warmer months Manageability Landholder vigilance plus Australian Plague Locust Commission’s baiting

programs and aerial spraying. Secondary hazards

Loss of crops and pasture Shortage of food for animals, both farm and native

Comments Plague Locust hatching reports for summer 2005 (from 20/12/04) included 21 in the Hunter Rural Land Protection Board and 252 in neighbouring boards.


INFESTATION - Plant FACTORS DESCRIPTION History Some Blue Green Algae contain toxins, either Neurotoxins or Hepato-

toxins. Blue Green Algae warnings have been issued for Lake Glenbawn. Murrurundi town water supply dam is monitored for Blue Green Algae. Parthenium Weed

Intensity Blue green Algae affects water storages and streams Parthenium weed is regarded as one of the worst weeds in Australia because of its invasiveness, potential to spread, and economic and environmental impacts.

Extent Blue Green algae may affect entire shire, Lake Glenbawn and Murrurundi water supply dam are major concerns. Likely outbreaks of Parthenium Weed are along transport routes and in cropping areas.

Speed of onset Several days warning Frequency interval Unlikely Manageability Warning to prevent human and animal contact.

Apply treatment and control options Secondary hazards Contaminated water supplies

Contaminated stock water Illness from contact with Blue Green Algae Stock losses from Parthenium Weed Allergies from Parthenium Weed

Comments The website www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture/noxweed lists the noxious weed declaration for the Upper Hunter.


4.2 Community description ELEMENT CHARACTERISTICS Demography Population distribution.

The Upper Hunter Local Government area occupies the Upper Hunter Valley of NSW and is 300 km north of Sydney. The urban centres of Aberdeen (1,710), Merriwa (987), Murrurundi (791) and Scone (4,565) contain the bulk of the residential, commercial and industrial development within the Upper Hunter Local Government area. Villages include Blandford (134), Borambil, Bunnan, Cassilis (113), Gundy, Main Camp, Moonan Flat, Parkville (270) and Wingen (166). The total population of the Upper Hunter Local Government area exceeds 14,448. The Glenrock and Barrington Tops areas are remote and sparsely populated. Overall, there has been a 0.2% decline in the areas population over the latest census period. Age distribution. The 2001 census for the Upper Hunter indicates that the age distribution is; 15 years and under = 21% 16 years to 64 years = 65% 65 years and over = 14% Health and mobility. The population is generally healthy and mobile with the elderly centred in the large urban centres due to the provision of aged care facilities. 0.9% of the population is in aged care. Skills. The rural community is resourceful and has strong trade skills while the professional workforce is urban based. Education level. 63% of the workforce have completed year 10 while 23.1% went on to complete year 12. 28.2 have gone on to undertake further education and training, with 6.5% obtaining a bachelor degree or beyond. Statistics. The NSW State Government’s restructuring of Local Government during 2004 resulted in a large portion of Merriwa Shire Council area, the section of Murrurundi Shire south of the Liverpool Range and Scone Shire Council were amalgamated to form the Upper Hunter Shire Council. Statistics from the 2001 census for the Upper Hunter State Electorate have been utilised in this report where statistics for the Upper Hunter Shire area are unavailable.


Culture Traditions.

The original land occupants were people of the …. Nation. Since European settlement the area begin in the 1820’s the area is now a traditional rural community with a self help attitude, there is now a growing industrial based workforce and a welfare dependant group in the urban centres. Ethnicity. The 2001 census revealed that while 93% of the population was born in Australia, the ethnic mix included;

44.1% Australian ancestry (Indigenous Australians = 2.1% 31.7% English ancestry 8.1% Irish ancestry 2.5% German ancestry

The population that cannot speak English well or at all is less that 0.2% Social values. 97% of the population reside in a private dwelling. Festivals highlighting rural life draw large crowds, including Merriwa’s “festival of the Fleeces”, Murrurundi’s “King of the Mountain” and Scone’s “Horse Festival”. Religion. The population is predominately from a Christian background. Politics. Both the Federal member and the State member belong to the National Party and are former party leaders. Risk awareness. Risk awareness is high amongst the longer term rural residents but some newer residents lack awareness. With the declining rural based residents, there is a drop in volunteers, especially for the RFS.


Economy Agriculture and livestock.

The rural economy is diverse with cereal crops, fodder crops, vineyards and timber forests along with cattle, sheep and horse breeding. The country’s major thoroughbred horse studs are located within the shire. Ellerston Station and polo complex is a unique gated community situated north of Moonan in the Upper Hunter valley. Industries. These rural industries support grain handling, horse racing, polo, abattoirs, saleyards, veterinary and winery complexes. Employment in the coal industry in the adjoining shires contributes to the local economy. Industrial complex at Scone features steel distribution and fabrication, concrete plants, brick yard, transport depots and vehicle repairs. Aircraft maintenance and repairs are carried out at the Scone airport. Earthmoving and quarrying companies operate throughout the district as do building and construction companies. Commerce. Shopping centres in Aberdeen, Merriwa, Murrurundi and Scone cater for the communities needs. Professional services, i.e. Financial, Medical, Real Estate, Stock and Station are available in Scone and also Merriwa. Tourism. The rural lifestyle, festivals, thoroughbred Horse Studs, Glenbawn Dam, national parks and attractive scenery all contribute to the tourism potential of the Upper Hunter. The Hunter Valley Research Foundation reports a 36.1% increase in tourist accommodation taking for the September Quarter 05 compared to the previous year.


Infrastructure Government structures.

Hospitals are at Merriwa, Murrurundi and Scone. All hospitals are equipped with heli-pads and serviced by the Newcastle Helicopter Rescue Service. The New England and Golden Highways are controlled by the RTA while State Water manages Glenbawn Dam. Emergency services. The emergency services available include Police, Ambulance, NSW fire brigades, Rural Fire Services, SES and VRS. Resource base. Locally resources are available from Council, Local industries, earth moving firms and quarries. Major equipment hire firms are based in Muswellbrook, only 15km south of the area. Resources can also be sourced from Dubbo and Mudgee to service the west of the Upper Hunter Shire and from Tamworth for the northern sector. Support services. The NPWS, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Hunter and Mudgee/Merriwa Rural Land Protection Boards have strong commitments to the area. Support services include Red Cross, St. Vincent De Paul, CWA and the Apex, Lions and Rotary service clubs. DOCS and Centrelink based in Muswellbrook also service the area.


4.3 Environment description Element Characteristics Built environment Lifelines.

Electric power is provided by Country Energy and Energy Australia. Gas is only available as LPG. Aberdeen, Merriwa, Murrurundi and Scone have reticulated water and sewer services and Cassilis has reticulated water. Communication and transport networks. The area has an extensive landline telephone network along with mobile service through the shire although mobile phone reception is unavailable in large areas. Cityrail services Aberdeen and Scone while Countrylink services these centres and Murrurundi. Bus companies service the New England Highway and there is a large school bus network. Community transport and local taxis are available in Aberdeen, Merriwa, Murrurundi and Scone. Scone airport has charter aircraft and is used for medical evacuations. Community assets. Public halls and/or community centres are present in Aberdeen, Bunnan, Cassilis, Gundy, Merriwa, Moonan Flat, Murrurundi, Rouchel, Scone, Timor, Wingen and Woolooma. There are sporting grounds at all these centres, all with toilets and some catering facilities.

Natural environment Flora & Fauna. Extensive clearing for cultivation and grazing has relegated most of the native flora and fauna to the ridges and mountains, large portions of which have been declared as National Parks. The Liverpool Range (part of the Great Dividing Range) is dominated by woodland and open-woodland that has been partially cleared for cultivation and grazing. The main species are White box and Yellow Box. At higher elevations of the range and on Barrington Tops the vegetation becomes taller and moister forest. Species include Silvertop Stringybark, Mountain Gum, Long-leaved Box, Manna Gum and Snow Gum. The ridges leading off the range support woodland, open-woodland and dry forest in sheltered positions. Narrow-leaved ironbark and rough-barked apple are the dominant trees. The Merriwa Plateau contains woodlands and open-woodlands with Yellow Box, Grey Box, Blakely’s Red Gum, Forest Red Gum and Rough-barked Apple. The valleys comprise of extensively cleared woodlands and open-woodlands with small patches of dry forest. Common trees include the Narrow-leaved Ironbark, Yellow Box, Grey Box and Forest Red Gum. River Oaks are common along the streams. There are many introduced species in the area, several of which are now major weeds. Introduced trees include the Pepper Tree and Silky Oak. Large fauna includes Kangaroos, Wallabies, Wombats and Koalas. There is a large variety of reptiles, insects and small marsupials while the streams host Platypus, eels and many smaller species. Introduced animals include the Rabbit, Fox, Deer and Pig. National Parks. The Barrington Tops National Park, Coolah Tops National Park and the Goulburn River National Park are large parks with a diverse range of flora


and fauna. Towarri is a smaller park in the Liverpool Range while the Burning Mountain Nature Reserve protects this unique feature. These parks along with the Barrington Tops and Stewarts Brook State Forests have extensive facilities for tourists. Geology. The Upper Hunter Local Government area lies within the Sydney Basin. This is a major structural basin containing a thick Permian-Triassic (290Ma – 200Ma (million years old)) sedimentary sequence. The Sydney Basin is economically important as it contains all the known large coal-fields in New South Wales and Queensland. The basin was initiated by crustal rifting in the Early Permian. Early deposition consisted of dominantly marine sediments which changed to mainly non-marine coal measures towards the end of the Early Permian. Sedimentation changed again to dominantly alluvial fan/fluvial environments. About the middle of the Triassic Period, the basin was uplifted to become dry land, and erosion has occurred from this time to the present. The sedimentary and volcanic series of rock types east of the railway (Hunter-Mooki Thrust Fault) were laid down during the Devonian, Carboniferous and Permian periods. Uplifting and thrust faulting began in the late Carboniferous and may have continued until the Cainozoic period (Broughton 1994) Strong folding occurred in the early Tertiary when the Great Dividing Range was forced up by continental collision. Triassic sediments of the Narrabeen Group occur as the steep hills and cliffs bordering the Merriwa Plateau. Climate. The climate of the area is strongly influenced by the Liverpool Range. The area has a generally dry sub-humid climate, with summer rainfall. The higher range country and the Barrington Tops have a cooler temperate climate with higher rainfall. There is a strong climatic gradient associated with the Liverpool Range and as a result, rainfall is unevenly distributed (McInnes-Clarke, S.K. 2002). Mean daily maximum temperature at Scone ranges from 16.2oC in July to 30.8oC in January. Frosts are common in winter with occasional snow falls on the higher country. Landform. The Liverpool Range and Mount Royal Range consist of steep hills and mountains with long foot slopes and fan systems. They form the northern watershed for the Hunter Valley. Soils include Euchrozems, Chocolate Soils, Lithosols, Clays, Chernozems and Black Earths. The valleys consist of undulating to rolling hills, foot slopes and drainage plains with the dominant soils being Lithosols, Bleached Loams and Earthy Sands. Separating the valleys are rolling to very steep hills and mountains on a wide variety of parent materials. Soils are highly variable. The Merriwa Plateau region terrain includes hills, mountains, fans and occasional foot slopes south of the Liverpool range and extending south to the Goulburn River. The dominant soils on basalt include Chocolate Soils and Black Earths. Waterways.


Situated in the upper reaches of the Hunter Valley, the major waterways consist of the Hunter River, including Glenbawn Dam, Page River and Goulburn River. The Hunter River along with tributaries Omadale Brook, Moonan Brook and Stewarts Brook rise on the Barrington Tops and therefore are snow feed in winter. Rouchel Brook is also partly snow feed and enters the Hunter River below Glenbawn Dam. The Page River and its main tributary the Isis River are fast flowing and subsequently susceptible to flash flooding. Extensive information on the areas Physiography, Geology and Regolith, Climate and Vegetation is contained in the soil landscapes based on the 1:100000 map sheets and prepared for the Department of Land and Water Conservation.


Social Environment Commerce.

The value of agriculture production in the Upper Hunter area in 2001 exceeded $120 million and wages income exceeded $175 million. The rural, light industrial and services industries workforce as well as the welfare dependant provide the socio-economic mix of the working class while the students, pre-schoolers and retirees complete the community profile Economy. A stable workforce and diversified rural economy with 82.8% of the workforce employed in the private sector. 17% are employed in management and administration, 16.2% as labourers and related workers while 14.9% are tradepersons and related workers. In 2002, the average income was $30,596 for Merriwa, $29,701 for Murrurundi and $37,056 for Scone LGAs While unemployment in 2003 was 4.9% in Merriwa, 6.6% in Murrurundi and 4.9% in Scone LGAs. Community safety. While crime levels have remained steady since 2003, except for a 7% decrease in break and enter offences, petty crimes and vandalism causes community concern and protests over the lack of police numbers, especially in the smaller communities. Local issues The community survey revealed that improving the local roads and the provision of reliable water and sewerage services were the greatest needs while the greatest satisfaction was with the provision of services for the elderly and the sporting and recreation facilities. Many residents are currently resentful of the amalgamation of the Councils and the lack of police numbers was also raise in the survey. Culture The area has a wide range of cultural activities and centres including museums, libraries, live theatre, movies, Arts & Craft Centre, Church and community halls, Swimming pools, sports grounds, Licensed Clubs, Social Clubs and Sporting Clubs. Major events include the Scone Horse Festival, The King of the Mountain Challenge at Murrurundi and Merriwa’s Festival of the Fleeces.


4.4 Risk statements These risk statements have been generated following consultation with the stakeholders and prioritised by the project management group. These risks all require a multi-agency response and a risk level of extreme or high. Risk Statement PriorityBushfire causing fatalities or injuries while fleeing, fighting or living in fire path 1 Death or injury by people entering or fording floodwaters 1 Flooding requiring the evacuation of up to 100 people in Scone. 1 Flooding requiring the evacuation of up to 60 people in Murrurundi. 1 Death or injuries from fallen trees, fallen power lines or flying debris during severe storm 1 Death or injury to people entering flooded streams or flash flooding during storms. 1 Illness and fatalities among the elderly and chronically ill during a heatwave 1 Bushfire causing damage or destruction of buildings, fences, forests and tourist facilities 2 Bushfire causing death or injury to livestock 2 Floodwaters entering 42 houses and 3 commercial buildings in Scone. 2 Floodwaters entering 26 houses and 34 commercial buildings in Murrurundi/Blandford 2 Damage to buildings, roofs and windows by wind, hail or lightning 2 Flash flooding entering houses and commercial buildings 2 Land Gale causing injuries or fatalities form falling trees or flying debris 3 Bushfire destroying or disrupting the power services 3 Bushfire causing damage to communication towers or their power sources 3 Loss of electrical power to area during floods 3 Floodwaters Closing roads and rail until structures are declared safe 3 Damage to pumps and fencing due to flash flooding 3 Closure of roads due to flash flooding 3 Bushfires started by lightning strikes 3 Vehicle accident or vehicles trapped in snow 3 Loss of income due to drought leading to feeling of helplessness and failure within the rural community

3

Illness from contact with Blue green Algae 4 Drought causing a loss of income for rural producers and local business 4 Bushfire causing death or injury to wildlife or the destruction of their food sources 4 Bushfire damaging National Parks and facilities 4 Fallen trees blocking roads during severe storms 4 Death, injuries or entrapment by falling debris or building collapse during an earthquake 4 Damaged, collapsed or unstable pre 1994 buildings during an earthquake 4 Land Gale causing wind damage to buildings 5 Loss of electrical power during a land gale 5 Road closures due to ice and snow 5 Loss of access to markets for rural producers during floods 5 Inundation of low areas by floodwater followed by weed infestation 5 Erosion of river banks during floods 5 Description of crops by infestation of Plague Locusts 6 Water supplies contaminated by Blue Green Algae 6 Bushfire causing evacuation of valuable livestock and pets 6 Injuries or fatalities from lightning strikes 7 Contaminated waterways and dams by blue Green Algae 8 People suffering an allergic reaction from Parthenium Weed 9 Animals poisoning by Parthenium Weed 9


4.5 Risk statements confirmation These risk statements were considered in relation to the key question “If and when this hazard impacts on people, property, animals and/or the environment, would it have the potential to require a significant and coordinated multi-agency response?” If considered in isolation a risk statement may not meet the definition of the key question but they are a consequence of a hazard which required a multi-agency response, therefore treatment options need to be developed or reviewed. Drought was considered by the Project Management Group to be a natural hazard which can have a severe impact on the Upper Hunter. As the effect of drought extends far beyond the local boundaries, the scale and complexity of this hazard is beyond the capacity of the Upper Hunter LEMC to address. The strategies of the State and Federal Agencies assist the local victims of this hazard and the LEMC will monitor the effect of drought on the local area. The LEMC will draw the Upper Hunter Shire Council’s attention to any deficiencies in the policies of the State and Federal Agencies in combating drought in the local area.


5. RISK ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION

5.1 Summary of analysis Utilising the indicative probability ratings and the consequences of the risk in the risk matrix as shown in the guide, all natural risks were analysed. The local history of natural disasters in the area as well as relevant data on annual exceedance probability were considered in deriving the indicative probability ratings. The analysis and evaluations was reviewed by the Project Management Group and the local combat agencies. The analysis was recorded on Form 6, the Risk Analysis, Evaluation and Priority Form provided in the Guide. Each separate hazard was considered and the risks assessed. The risks were then prioritised by the Project Management Group.

5.2 Summary of evaluation Stakeholder and community meetings were held in Merriwa, Moonan, Murrurundi and Scone. The community’s perception of hazards and expectations of risk reduction were considered during the evaluation. The outcome of these meetings is shown in dot point in Appendix 2 from page 48. The evaluation determined the relative seriousness of each risk while considering the communities acceptance of the level of risk and the available treatment options.


5.3 Risk referral The referrals made in this report are based on the ERM Stakeholders List in the Guide as well as the local experience during previous natural disasters. Source of risk

Agencies with risk management responsibilities

Key stakeholders Other stakeholders

Bush fire Rural Fire Service Liverpool Range Zone Bush Fire Management Committee comprising: NSW Fire Brigades Police State Forests National Parks and Wildlife Service Australian Rail track Corporation Country Energy Department of Lands Energy Australia Gunnedah Shire Council Liverpool Plains Shire Council NSW Farmers Association Nungaroo LALC Red Chief LALC Roads & Traffic Authority Hunter Rural Lands Protection Board Mudgee/Merriwa Rural Lands Protection Board Transgrid Upper Hunter Shire Council Walhallow LALC Wanaruah LALC Weilwan Mudgee LALC

Bush Fire Coordinating Committee NSW Department of Planning Department of Local Government Local Government and Shires Association (LGSA) Department of Primary Industry


Flood State Emergency

Service (SES) NSW Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Upper Hunter Shire Council State Water

Flood Plain Management Committee Department of Primary Industries Upper Hunter Shire Council Water & Sewerage Division Roads & Traffic Authority (RTA) NSW Police

Department of Planning Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) Dam Safety Committee Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) Hunter – Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority Department of Commerce

Severe Storm

State Emergency Service (SES) Upper Hunter Shire Council

Department of Primary Industries Energy Australia & Country Energy Transgrid Roads & Traffic Authority (RTA) NSW Police

Department of Local Government Department of Housing Department of Planning Department of Commerce

Landslip Upper Hunter Shire Council

Land Manager of site Geoscience Australia NSW Department Natural Resources (DNR)

Earthquake DISPLAN arrangements apply

Upper Hunter Shire Council Geoscience Australia NSW Department Natural Resources (DNR) NSW Department of Commerce NSW Department of Planning


Snow Storm State Emergency

Service (SES) Upper Hunter Shire Council

Energy Australia & Country Energy Roads & Traffic Authority (RTA) NSW Police National Parks and Wildlife Service State Forests

Department of Local Government Department of Housing Department of Planning Department of Commerce

Heatwave NSW Health Service

Ambulance Service of NSW Upper Hunter Shire Council Water & Sewerage Division NSW Fire Brigades Rural Fire Service

Land Gale State Emergency Service (SES) Upper Hunter Shire Council

Energy Australia & Country Energy Transgrid Roads & Traffic Authority (RTA) NSW Police

Department of Local Government Department of Housing Department of Commerce

Drought Department of Primary Industries

Hunter Rural Lands Protection Board Mudgee – Merriwa Rural Lands Protection Board Upper Hunter Shire Council Water & Sewerage Division State Water Rural Fire Service Department of Natural Resources

Upper Hunter Shire Council NSW Farmers Association Local Government and Shires Association Hunter – Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority Department of Commerce Bureau of Meteorology


Infestation - Animal - Insect - Plant

Department of Primary Industries

Hunter Rural Lands Protection Board Mudgee – Merriwa Rural Lands Protection Board Plague Locust Authority Upper Hunter Shire Council Water & Sewerage Division

Upper Hunter Shire Council NSW Farmers Association Local Government and Shires Association Hunter – Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority


6 RISK TREATMENT

6.1 Risk treatment options Several Risk Treatment Options were developed and are shown against each Risk Statement as shown in Appendix 7 (Page 72). Only hazards where the Risk Level was identified as extreme or high were addressed. The hazards with a low or moderate Risk Level are referred to the appropriate agency to develop treatment options. While the use of the Rank-ItR 25 was evaluated, The Risk Statements, Treatment Options and Priorities were identified by brainstorming as this is a quick method and impinged the lest on the volunteers time while allowing all stakeholders present to contribute. With stakeholder and community meeting held in four centres throughout the Upper Hunter area, all local issues were adequately canvassed.

6.2 Assessment criteria for risk treatment options The following assessment criteria were considered in developing the risk treatment options shown in Appendix 7on page 72.

Possibility of fatalities and injuries Cost of damage to infrastructure Disruption to power services Communities awareness and preparedness Community expectations Adequacy of existing plans, processes and procedures. Adequacy of preventative measures Need for evacuation Compliance with planning laws, Australian Standards, BA and DA approvals. Road closures Adequacy of available resources Loss of communications Jurisdictional authority Environmental effects Cost benefit Side effects of risk treatment Adequacy of warning signs

6.3 Summary of risk treatment planning The Risk Treatment Plans adopted are detailed in Appendix 8 (Page 105). The resources of the local combat agencies and support agencies were considered when recommending plans that included hazard reduction, on going plan reviews and community education programs. Monitoring of the on going plan reviews is to be agenda item at each LEMC meeting to ensure that the various plans are continuously reviewed and progress recorded to the LEMC minutes.


APPENDIX 1

PROJECT MANAGEMENT PLAN AIM The Local Emergency Management Committee has resolved to establish an Emergency Risk Management Project for natural hazards within the Upper Hunter Shire Council area. The Upper Hunter Shire Council’s application for funding under the Natural Disaster Mitigation Programme (NDMP) has been approved by both the Commonwealth and New South Wales Governments in the 2005/2006 round of funding. The project will be conducted in accordance with the policies and procedures of the Upper Hunter Shire Council. The report will form a base for the review of the DISPLANS scheduled to commence in June, 2006. Currently there are three DISPLANS covering the Upper Hunter Shire Council area, being the plans prepared for the former Merriwa, Murrurundi and Scone Shire Councils. The LEMC has resolved to review and combine these plans in accordance Emergency Risk Management principals. IMPLEMENTATION The Upper Hunter Shire Council appointed Mr. Kevin Bell to co-ordinate the project and the LEMC at the February 16, 2006 meeting endorsed the project management group consisting of Paul Gallagher, Coleen Pinkerton and Kevin Bell. Other stakeholders will be utilised as and when required to progress the project. The project management group is a sub-committee of the Local Emergency Management Committee and will report to the LEMC meeting in Scone on June 8. The Emergency Risk Management process is derived from the NSW State Emergency & Rescue Management Act (SERM Act). The project is to review the natural hazards within the Shire to identify, analyse and evaluate risks with potential to require a significant and co-ordinated multi agency response and to develop and implement the emergency risk management process for the Upper Hunter. This project will only consider natural risks that have the potential to develop into an emergency as defined by the SERM Act. “Emergency” – An emergency due to the actual or imminent occurrence (such as fire, flood, storm, earthquake, explosion, accident, epidemic or warlike action) which:

a. endangers, or threatens to endanger, the safety or health of persons or animals in the State, or;

b. destroys or damages, or threatens to destroy or damage, any property in the State, being an emergency which requires a significant and coordinated response. (Source: SERM Act)

For the purposes of the definition of emergency, property in the State includes any part of the environment of the State. Accordingly, a reference in the Act to:

c. Threats or dangers to property includes a reference to threats or dangers to the environment, and

d. The protection of property includes a reference to the protection of the environment. (Source: SERM Act).

Treatment strategies for the risks identified will remain the responsibility of the agency/s identified in the DISPLAN.


METHODOLOGY The methodology to be adopted is as per Annex B of the “Implementation Guide for Emergency Risk Management”. The study will include both Risk Assessment and Risk Treatment focusing on all natural disaster hazards that are identified and prioritised including those originally identified in the DISPLANs. The study will revisit all appropriate natural disasters and apply the risk assessment criteria in AS 4360. The “Guide” will be the principal document for the study referencing AS 4360 ‘Risk Management’ as necessary. Risk statements will be prioritised by the project management group following consultation with the stakeholders and the community. TIMETABLE The timetable for the project is attached. The timelines can only be achieved with the full cooperation of the stakeholders and the timely availability of the information required. The plan calls for six project management group meeting and four stakeholders meeting with the draft document presented to the LEMC on June 8, 2006. The final document is to be submitted to the DEMC by July 7, 2006. COMMUNICATION All agencies represented on the Local Emergency Management Committee and Upper Hunter Shire Council personal have been advised either verbally or by Email of the project and their cooperation requested. REVIEW OF EXISTING DOCUMENTS The following documents will be reviewed at the commencement of the study.

Introduction to Emergency Risk Management (NSW) - Workbook Implementation Guide for Emergency Management Committees Scone Local Area Displan (July 2000) Scone Local Flood Plan Building for Nature (Emergency Management Australia 2001) Merriwa Shire Local Displan (December 1995) Murrurundi Local Displan (May 1996) Murrurundi, Blandford and Willow Tree Floodplain Management Study (March 1998) Bushfire Management Plan NSW State Flood Plan (April 2001) NSW State Storm Plan (August 2000) Reducing the Community Impact of Landslides ( Emergency Management Australia, October

2001) State Agriculture and Animal Services Plan (December 2001) Animal Health Emergency Sub-plan (December 2001) DPI Bushfire Operating Plan (October 2004) Scone Road Report 2005


NATURAL HAZARDS Natural hazards identified include;

Fire (bush and grass) Flood Severe Storm (Wind, Electrical, Rain, Hail and Tornado) Landslide Earthquake Snow Heatwave Land Gale Drought Infestation

o Animal Rodent

o Insect Plague Locust

o Plant Blue green algae

Excluded from the study are technological and biological hazards. CONSULTATION The relevant stakeholders will be invited to attend stakeholder meeting at:

Merriwa ( Borambil, Cassilis & Merriwa communities) Moonan Flat ( Belltrees, Ellerston, Glenrock & Moonan communities) Murrurundi (Blandford, Murrurundi & Timor communities) Scone (Aberdeen, Bunnan, Gundy, Parkville, Rouchel, Scone & Wingen communities)

The stakeholders to be invited to attend these meetings are:

Primary Stakeholders - NSW Police - NSW Ambulance - NSW Fire Brigade - Rural Fire Service - Merriwa Volunteer Rescue Association - Aberdeen SES - Murrurundi SES - Scone SES - National Parks & Wildlife Service - Upper Hunter Shire Council

Other Stakeholders

- Department of Community Services - Mudgee/Merriwa Rural Land Protection Board - Hunter Rural Land Protection Board - NSW Department of Primary Industries - State Forests - Roads and Traffic Authority


- Hunter & New England Health - Telstra - Energy Australia - Australian Rail Track Corporation - Merriwa Progress Association - Merriwa Tourist Welcoming Centre - Upper Hunter Weed Authority - Murrurundi Progress Association - Tourism Murrurundi Committee - Tourism Scone Committee - Scone Chamber of Commerce

Support Organisations

- Red Cross Society, Scone - Country Women’s Association, Aberdeen Rouchel branch - Country Women’s Association, Scone Branch - Merriwa Apex Club - Merriwa Lions Club - Merriwa Rotary Club - Country Women’s Association, Moonan Branch - Country Women’s Association, Murrurundi Branch - Murrurundi Apex Club - Murrurundi Lions Club - Murrurundi Rotary Club - Scone Apex Club - Scone Lions Club - Aberdeen Lions Club - Scone Rotary Club - Australian Civil Air Patrol - Country Women’s Association, Parkville Wingen Branch

General public

- Via press release - ABC radio interview with LEMO

MONITORING The progress of the project shall be reviewed by the LEMO, who shall receive fortnightly reports from the Emergency Risk Management Co-ordinator detailing the progress measured against the projects timetable.


APPENDIX 2

COMMUNICATION AND CONSULTATION PLAN The communications and consultations were undertaken by;

Media release (a copy is included at the end of this appendix) Radio interview with LEMO on ABC radio Email Letters to stakeholders and community representatives Community meetings

The list of attendees and the results of the community consultations at the various centres were recorded and are summarised below in dot point. SCONE. Upper Hunter Shire Council Chambers Main Street, Scone. Tuesday 21 March 2006 at 7.00pm

Apologies Diane Lewis, Scott Memorial Hospital Linda Winn, Hunter New England Health, Area Manager, Disaster Response and Coordination. Pat Gray, Wingen/Parkville CWA Jim Kerr, Hunter Rural Land Protection Board Attendance Coleen Pinkerton, Upper Hunter Shire Council, assistant LEMO Allan Davidson, Scone SES Richard Apps, Scone SES Bruce Kimber, RTA Trevor Hayes, NSWFB Jan Moffet, NPWS Dean Van Reisberg, NPWS Rob Kembrey, Ambulance Service of NSW Guy Guiana, NSW Police Peter Elliott, RFS Earthquake Glenbawn Dam (Close to Hunter – Mooki Fault) Brushy Hill Aberdeen State Water Input required Warning devices


Infestations Health effects of pesticides Loss of income Foot & Mouth Disease Blue Green Algae Murrurundi Dam Sewer Parthenium Weed Water supply for services, eg fire Use of fire as control Funding Communications Silo’s – Grain Corp. Private Crops/pasture Urban interface Flood Scone cut in half (Satur isolated) Roads cut Page crossing Broad crossing Supply of emergency services Communications SES Scone Sewerage Treatment Works Glenbawn Dam overtop Prevention, eg house raising Stormwater runoff Council controls & measures, eg tanks Effects of floods on roads (washouts) Rocky cutting Moonan Middlebrook Assets Loss of community assets Sticky beaks Education Identify for evacuation Evacuation points Significant periods out of homes


Heatwave Traffic jams – welfare Main effect on Ambo’s & health Town water supply Pumping capacity Damage to assets, eg road and rail Effect on morale Increased risk of fires Identify vulnerable community Lack of evacuation centres with cooling facilities Essential services to the emergency services Education programs (Dec – Jan) Council Hunter New England Health Storms Loss of power & other supplies Infrastructure damage Loss of communications Historic Allan Cunningham Drive Register of CREST, Communication groups SES support from other areas/services Workforce communications Who reports & who to? NPWS history Local knowledge Bushfires Water supply (in drought) Identify points & ground truth Property identification & resident use Good relations – MAZ All services including NPWS Volunteer numbers declining Capacity to deal with Remote Access Fires? Identify alternate routes during fires Need for cross service training Land Gales Refer to severe storm Preparedness & ability to respond Duration!! Health effects ie dust Damage level


Drought Water supply Agricultural impact Health issues – dying stock Loss of income & economic impact Social problems Loss of volunteer base Increased hazards on roads eg roo’s Slow, longer term Able to prepare Socio-economic relief Landslip Major thoroughfares Railway Tourism areas Evacuation/welfare to isolated community Minor risk Snow Barrington tops Refer to ERM Plan Loss of services People Communications MURRURUNDI RSL Hall Wednesday 22 March 2006 at 7.00pm Attendance Bruce Pinkerton, Liverpool Range Zone RFS Ian MacAlpine, Murrurundi SES John McIntyre, Timor Judy Bernasconi, Hunter New England Health, Murrurundi Hospital Kirsty Papagni, Bacco’s Bakery Luigi Papagni, Bacco’s Bakery Mark Daly, Liverpool Range RFS Tess Hynes, Murrurundi Development Association & Dynamic Whole Foods Coleen Pinkerton, Upper Hunter Shire Council, assistant LEMO Earthquake Common Dam – NPWS Fault line along toe of Mt Helen Timor fault – Isis River Valley Very few multi story buildings Construction standards Mt. Helen communication infrastructure Transport infrastructure Heatwave Power loss Livestock Increased fire risk Vulnerable community


Road surfaces Range road blocks Education to carry water Water points Effect on daily life Economic/social Algae bloom in water supply Flood Emergency hotline What will the levee do? Community awareness SES awareness program Loss of wooden bridges No through roads – access Causeways (debris) Hospital cut off Essential services Murravale (evacuation) Evacuation centres Education RTA raised highway at Blandford Storm Special care list 13 hour blackout at hospital Blackout once a fortnight – Timor – Tamworth line After storm effects Tree falls Lightning strikes Lots of severe storms in Murrurundi Narrow/ localised 3 SES jobs in any one event Education Willy-willy strips Awareness of backup systems Safety Drought Education Stock Death Economic No water Diseases Socia/morale Economic – long term Duration Tourism Declining volunteers Decreased fire fighting techniques Town water supply Landslip Vegetation loss then rain


Crawney – road water tables Green Creek – rocks Range – rail tunnel Effects services, creeks Snow Black frost more a hazard 20 year interval in town Blocks highway 3 snowfalls pa at Mt. Helen Frozen water supply Infrastructure Tourists – danger No previous effect on emergency services Building design for snow Bushfire Preparedness New people Extreme Small villages No Big Red Truck Water supply No reticulation Dams Carry bulk supplies Urban fringes High Volunteer – other work Absent landowners No Council roadside slashing Evacuation Hazard reduction Communication Initial contract RFS


MERRIWA Upper Hunter Shire Council Merriwa Office meeting room Vennacher Street Merriwa Tuesday 28 March 2006 at 7.00pm Apologies Cl. Cottle, Upper Hunter Shire Council Paul Gallagher, Upper Hunter Shire Council, LEMO Mary Llewlyn, Merriwa Hospital Attendance Bruce Kimber, RTA Geoff Eyre, NSW Fire Brigade John Small, NSW Fire Brigade Michael Hagley, Merriwa VRA/SES Greg Lowe, Mudgee NPWS Kevin Bell, Emergency Risk Management Co-ordinator Bushfire Evacuation plans Transport facilities Fuel for aircraft List resources west of Merriwa if access from east is cut The major concern = loss of power Only one feed line to Merriwa 30km subject to bushfire (also severe storm of land gale) No power = No water No sewerage pumps No ATM’s No food Need to close Golden Highway at Mudgee Road List of at risk people Hostel Energy Australia Generator Process to activate What does it service – only CBD – what is the boundaries How long can it run? Council generator Can it run water or sewerage pumps Cassilis Same problems with power supply Flood Cassilis Flows straight across bend in river Sports ground affected Merriwa No 2 oval Highway cut at bridge near Bowling Club (2 to 3 hours) Hotel cellars flooded Rural roads cut Long term residents understand floods = no problems Not a major issue in Merriwa area


Severe Storm Occur regularly in summer Narrow strip storm or willy-willy Big storm 12 February 2004 Involved Council, Energy Australia, SES, VRA, NSWFB, RFS. Worked well, LEOC used as communications centre Loss of power main concern Land Gale Loss of power main concern Merriwa in valley – protected Earthquake Tremors felt during Newcastle earthquake Not a major concern Few two story brick buildings Landslip Not applicable Drought Not a problem for local emergency services Increased fire risk Limited water supplies Possible dust storms Heatwave Serious if power affected Lack of cool evacuation centres Infestations Not a serious problem Snow Not applicable Merriwa LEOC How useful is Merriwa LEOC Not used during the major bushfire How equipped is Merriwa LEOC Need list of available equipment Need to understand what equipment available from Mudgee, Dubbo if Merriwa is isolated from Scone & Muswellbrook.


LEMC Need night meetings Volunteers have work commitments Need for local meetings with local agenda MOONAN Moonan Hall Wednesday 29 March 2006 at 7.00pm Attendance Kevin Bell, Emergency Risk Management Co-ordinator Ian Blackwood, NSW DPI Drought Livestock deaths Onset of winter will affect drought affected cattle Wild dogs Increasing attacks on calves and sheep


MEDIA RELEASE Mr Paul Gallagher, Chairman of the Upper Hunter Local Emergency Management Committee, has announced the establishment of an Emergency Risk Management Project for natural hazards within the Upper Hunter Shire Council area. The Upper Hunter Shire Council is co-ordinating the project which is jointly sponsored by the State and Commonwealth Governments along with Council. Mr. Gallagher explained that the project is to review the natural hazards within the Shire and to identify, analyse and evaluate the risks associated with these natural hazards. Excluded from the study are technological and biological hazards. This project will only consider natural risks that have the potential to develop into an emergency as defined. “Emergency” – An emergency due to the actual or imminent occurrence (such as fire, flood, storm, earthquake, etc.) which:

c. endangers, or threatens to endanger, the safety or health of persons or animals in the State, or;

e. destroys or damages, or threatens to destroy or damage, any property in the State, being an emergency which requires a significant and coordinated response.

To obtain the communities views on the natural hazards and their impact, the public are invited to attend a series of community consultation meeting to be held throughout the Upper Hunter. Merriwa (Borambil, Cassilis & Merriwa communities) Tuesday 28th March in the Council Meeting Room, Vennacher St. at 7.00pm Moonan Flat (Belltrees, Ellerston, Glenrock & Moonan communities) Wednesday 29th March in the Moonan Community Hall at 7.00pm Murrurundi (Blandford, Murrurundi & Timor communities) Wednesday 22nd March in the RSL Hall, New England Highway at 7.00pm Scone (Aberdeen, Bunnan, Gundy, Parkville, Rouchel, Scone & Wingen communities) Tuesday 21st March in the Council Chambers, Main St. at 7.00pm. Mr. Gallagher stressed that public input is welcome at all of these meeting. Any enquiries in regard to this matter should be directed to Paul Gallagher on 6548 2109 or Coleen Pinkerton on 6540 1109.


APPENDIX 3

MONITORING AND REVIEW The progress of the project shall be reviewed by the LEMO, who shall receive fortnightly reports from the Emergency Risk Management Co-ordinator detailing the progress measured against the projects timetable. Monitoring and review is a continuous process throughout the project. It is undertaken at each step and after every consultation. The Risk Treatment Plans include schedules for review. A timetable for the LEMC to consider the reviews is shown at the end of Appendix 8 (Page 115) Ongoing monitoring and reviews will be undertaken at each meeting of the LEMC and as part of any debrief following an event. All reviews are to be documented and the documents retained by the Upper Hunter Shire Council. This document is to be reviewed every five years with the next review scheduled for 2011.


APPENDIX 4 FORM 1 NATURAL HAZARD CHECKLIST

NATURAL HAZARDS

Avalanche

Snow Storm

Cyclone

Tornado

Earthquake

Coastal Erosion

Fire-Bush

Fire-Grass

Flood

Fog

Extreme Cold

Landslip/Rock

Fall/Mudflow

Infestation-Animal

Infestation- Insect

Infestation- Plant

Severe storm- Electrical

Severe storm- Wind

Severe storm- Rain

Severe storm- Hail

Storm Surge

Tsunami


APPENDIX 5












APPENDIX 6 FORM 4 ELEMENTS AT RISK HAZARDS ELEMENTS

People Property Lifelines Environment Animals Life Health Power Water Roads Other Life Health Bush/grass fire YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES Flood YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES Severe storm YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES Heatwave YES YES YES YES Land gale YES YES YES YES YES Drought YES YES YES YES YES YES Landslide YES YES YES YES Earthquake YES YES YES YES YES YES YES Snow YES YES YES Infestation – Animal

YES YES YES

Infestation – Insect

YES YES YES

Infestation – Plant

YES YES YES YES


APPENDIX 7 RISK ANALYSIS, EVALUATION & PRIORITY BUSH FIRE ASSESSMENT

Element at risk

Risk statement Likelihood rating

Consequence rating

Risk level Treatment option Priority

People Fatalities or injuries while fleeing, fighting or living in fire path

LIKELY MAJOR EXTREME Continuous education program. Adherence to the Bush Fire Management Plan. Enforcement of planning guidelines.

1

Property Damage or destruction of buildings, fences, forests and tourist facilities

ALMOST CERTAIN

MAJOR EXTREME Community education. Hazard reduction. Roadside slashing.

2

Lifelines - power

Destruction or disruption to power services

POSSIBLE MODERATE HIGH Regular inspection by power authority. Hazard reduction.

3

Lifelines - roads

Closure of road, rail routes due to fire and smoke

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Roadside slashing, firebreaks. Identify alternate routes.

10

Damage to timber road bridges or rail bridges and sleepers

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Clear around structures in off season. Maintain firebreaks.

10

Lifelines – communications

Damage to communication towers and power sources

POSSIBLE MODERATE HIGH Regular inspections. Hazard reduction.

3

Natural environment

Death or injury to wildlife or destruction of food sources

ALMOST CERTAIN

MINOR HIGH Notify WIRES, NPWS.

4

Damage to National Parks and facilities

ALMOST CERTAIN

MODERATE EXTREME Ensure NPWS fire plans are up to date.

4

Animals Death or injury to livestock or pasture loss

LIKELY MODERATE HIGH Advise DPI and RLP Boards. Community education.

2

Evacuation of valuable livestock and pets

LIKELY MINOR HIGH Establish protocol in DISPLAN

6


TREATMENT OPTIONS EVALUATION Hazard: Risk Statement: Bushfire Fatalities or injuries while fleeing, fighting or living in fire path. Treatment options Continuous education program. Adherence to Bush Fire Management Plan. Enforcement of planning guidelines. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of landholders.

Are new residents aware of the bush fire hazard?

Bush Fire Management Plan to address.

Adequacy of existing plans.

Is the Bush Fire Management Plan up to date?

RFS to advise.

Compliance with the new planning laws

Are the planning guidelines being enforced?

Upper Hunter Shire Council to advise.

Hazard: Risk Statement: Bushfire Damage or destruction of buildings, fences, forests and tourist

facilities. Treatment options Community education. Hazard reduction. Roadside slashing. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of landholders.

Do new residents know how to protect their property?

Bush fire Management Plan to address.


When did NSW State Forests review their plans? When did NPWS review their plans?

NSW State Forests to advise LEMC. NPWS to advise LEMC.

Adequacy of preventative measures.

Is hazard reduction undertaken? Is the width and extent of roadside slashing sufficient?

RFS to advise LEMC Upper Hunter Shire Council to advise.


Hazard: Risk Statement: Bushfire Destruction or disruption to power services. Treatment options Regular inspection by power authority. Hazard reduction. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of asset owner.

30km of Merriwa’s only feed line subject to bushfire?

Power authorities to advise LEMC of inspection and hazard reduction programmes.


What is the process to activate generator to service Merriwa CBD? Can Council’s generators run water and sewerage pumps?

Energy Australia’s protocols call for the restoration of power to Merriwa CBD within 2.5hrs. Upper Hunter Shire Council to advise LEMO.

Hazard: Risk Statement: Bushfire Closure of road, rail routes due to fire and smoke. Treatment options Roadside slashing, firebreaks. Identify alternate routes. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans and procedures.

Are existing roadside slashing programs and rail corridor firebreaks adequate?

RFS to advise.


Have alternate routes been identified?

Council to advise LEMC.

Hazard: Risk Statement: Bushfire Damage to timber road bridges or rail bridges and sleepers. Treatment options Clear around structures in off season. Maintain firebreaks. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans and procedures.

Is clearing conducted around structures and are rail corridor firebreaks adequate?

Council and ARTC to advise.

Hazard: Risk Statement:


Bushfire Damage to communication towers and power sources. Treatment options Regular inspections. Hazard reduction. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing procedures.

Is clearing conducted around structures and are firebreaks adequate?

Telstra to advise.

Hazard: Risk Statement: Bushfire Death or injury to wildlife or destruction of food sources. Treatment options Instigate procedures to notify WIRES, NPWS. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing procedures.

Have procedures been developed?

RFS, NPWS to advise.


Hazard: Risk Statement: Bushfire Damage to National Parks and Facilities. Treatment options Ensure NPWS fire plans are up to date. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing fire plan.

Have fire plans been updated?

RFS, NPWS to advise.

Hazard: Risk Statement: Bushfire Death or injury to livestock or pasture loss. Treatment options Advise DPI and RLP Boards. Community education Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans and procedures.

Have plans and procedures been updated?

RFS, DPI to advise.

Awareness of graziers to potential losses.

Are community awareness programs conducted?

RFS to advise

Hazard: Risk Statement: Bushfire Evacuation of valuable livestock and pets. Treatment options Establish protocol in DISPLAN. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans and procedures.

Has a protocol been developed?

Incorporate in DISPLAN.


RISK ANALYSIS, EVALUATION AND PRIORITY FLOOD

Element at risk


Consequence rating


People Death or injuries by people entering or fording floodwaters.

LIKELY MAJOR EXTREME Adherence to SES Flood Plan.

Ensure Flood Plan is kept up to date.

Provide regular road closure information to local radio, RTA and NRMA.

Maintain adequate signage at floodways.

1

Evacuation of up to 100 people in Scone.

LIKELY MODERATE HIGH Maintain record of evacuation centres and procedures in SES Flood Plan

1

Evacuation of up to 60 people in Murrurundi.

LIKELY MODERATE HIGH Maintain record of evacuation centres and procedures in SES Flood Plan.

1

Property Floodwater entering 42 houses and 3 commercial buildings in Scone.

LIKELY MODERATE HIGH Adhere to SES Flood Plan.

2

Floodwater entering 26 houses and 34 commercial buildings in Murrurundi/Blandford.

LIKELY MODERATE HIGH Adhere to SES Flood Plan.

2

Lifelines – power

Loss of electrical power to area

LIKELY MINOR HIGH Follow Energy Australia/Country Energy procedures for early resumption of services.

3

Lifelines – water

Disruption to water supply due to flooded pump stations.

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Upper Hunter Shire Council to restore supply expeditiously.

Contaminated water due to dirty water in rivers.

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Early earning to boil drinking water.

Lifelines – roads and rail

Closure of roads and rail until structures are declared safe.

LIKELY MINOR HIGH Ensure closures are adequately signposted and adequate resources available for quick restoration.

3

Lifelines - communicati

Damage to cables resulting in loss of

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Follow supplier’s procedures for early


Element at risk


Consequence rating


ons communications resumption of services.

Local economy

Loss of access to markets for rural producers

LIKELY MINOR HIGH The DPI to implement the Flood Emergencies section of the State Agriculture and Animal Services Plan.

5

Natural Environment

Inundation of low areas followed by weed infestation

ALMOST CERTAIN

INSIGNIFICANT

HIGH Advise Upper Hunter Weed Authority.

5

Erosion of river banks

ALMOST CERTAIN

INSIGNIFICANT

HIGH Refer to Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority.

5


TREATMENT OPTIONS EVALUATION Hazard: Risk Statement: Flood Death or injuries by people entering or fording floodwaters. Treatment options Adherence to SES Flood Plan.

Ensure Flood Plan is kept up to date. Provide regular road closure information to local radio, RTA and NRMA. Maintain adequate signage at floodways.

Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of landholders.

Is community aware of the danger?

SES flood plans to address

Adequacy of existing plans. Are the SES flood plans kept up to date?

SES to advise LEMC

Adequacy of existing protocols.

Does SES advise of road closures?

SES to advise.

Adequacy of warning signs Do floodway signs comply with Australian Standards?


Hazard: Risk Statement: Flood Evacuation of up to 100 people in Scone. Treatment options Maintain record of evacuation centres and procedures in SES

Flood Plan. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of residents.

Are residents aware of the need to evacuate during a major flood?

SES/Council to provide ongoing community education.

Adequacy of existing plans. Are evacuation centres adequate?

SES to review evacuation centres.


Hazard: Risk Statement: Flood Evacuation of up to 60 people in Murrurundi. Treatment options Maintain record of evacuation centres and procedures in SES

Flood Plan. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of residents.





Hazard: Risk Statement: Flood Floodwater entering 42 houses and 3 commercial buildings in

Scone. Treatment options Adhere to SES Flood Plan. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of residents.





Hazard: Risk Statement: Flood Floodwater entering 26 houses and 34 commercial buildings in

Murrurundi. Treatment options Adhere to SES Flood Plan. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of residents.






Hazard: Risk Statement: Flood Loss of electrical power to area. Treatment options Follow Energy Australia/Country Energy procedures for early

resumption of services. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans. Can Council’s generators

operate the water and sewerage systems?

Upper Hunter Shire Council to advise LEMC.

Hazard: Risk Statement: Flood Closure of roads and rail until structures are declared safe. Treatment options Ensure closures are adequately signposted and adequate

resources available for quick restoration. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of available resources.

Are the resources available locally to man road closures over a lengthy period?


Are material resources readily available?

Hazard: Risk Statement: Flood Loss of access to markets for rural producers. Treatment options The DPI to implement the Flood Emergencies section of the

State Agriculture and Animal Services Plan. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans and procedures.

Are the resources available locally to assist the rural producers?

DPI to advise LEMC.


Hazard: Risk Statement: Flood Inundation of low areas followed by weed infestation. Treatment options Advise Upper Hunter Weed Authority. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans and procedures.

Are the resources available locally to assist the rural producers?

Upper Hunter Weed Authority to advise LEMC.

Hazard: Risk Statement: Flood Erosion of river banks. Treatment options Refer to Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management

Authority. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Community expectations.

Is this an issue that the LEMC needs to address?

Refer to Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority.


RISK ANALYSIS, EVALUATION AND PRIORITY SEVERE STORM

Element at risk


Consequence rating


People Death or injuries from falling trees, fallen power line or flying debris.

LIKELY MAJOR EXTREME Continuous public education programmes.

1

Injuries or fatalities from lightning strikes.

LIKELY MAJOR EXTREME Continuous public education programmes.

7

Death or injury to people entering flooded streams or flash flooding.

LIKELY MAJOR EXTREME Continuous public education programmes. Ensure adequate signage at floodways.

1

Property Damage to buildings, roofs and windows by wind, hail or lightning

ALMOST CERTAIN

MODERATE EXTREME Provide severe weather warnings.

2

Flash flooding entering houses and commercial buildings

LIKELY MODERATE HIGH Adhere to SES Local Flood Plan.

2

Damage to pumps and fencing due to flash flooding.

LIKELY MODERATE HIGH Issue pump warnings 3

Lifelines – power

Disruption to power supply due to fallen lines

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Follow Energy Australia/Country Energy procedures for early resumption of services.

Lifelines – roads

Closure of roads due to flash flooding.

ALMOST CERTAIN

MINOR HIGH Ensure closures are adequately signposted and adequate resources available for quick restoration.

3

Lifelines – roads

Fallen trees blocking roads.

LIKELY MINOR HIGH Ensure resources are available for quick response.

4

Natural Environment

Fires started by lightning strikes.

LIKELY MODERATE HIGH Community awareness to report fires.

3

Damage to trees in National Parks and forests

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE NPWS and State Forests to assess.

Animals Death or injury to livestock by lightning.

UNLIKELY MODERATE MODERATE DPI to assist.


TREATMENT OPTIONS EVALUATION Hazard: Risk Statement: Severe storm Death or injuries from falling trees, fallen power line or flying

debris. Treatment options Continuous public education programmes. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of community.

Is the SES community safety awareness programme effective? Have surveys been conducted to measure the programmes effectiveness?

SES to advise LEMC

Hazard: Risk Statement: Severe storm Injuries or fatalities from lightning strikes. Treatment options Continuous public education programmes. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of community.

Is the SES community safety awareness programme effective?

SES to advise LEMC

Hazard: Risk Statement: Severe Storm Death or injury to people entering flooded streams or flash flooding. Treatment options Continuous public education programmes. Ensure adequate signage at floodways. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of community.

Is the SES community safety awareness programme effective?

SES to advise LEMC.

Adequacy of existing warning signs.

Does the signage at floodways comply with the Australian Standard?



Hazard: Risk Statement: Severe Storm Damage to buildings, roofs and windows by wind, hail or

lightning. Treatment options Provide severe weather warnings. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of community.

Are the warnings provided by the Bureau of Meteorology timely?

SES to advise LEMC.


Does the SES have access to adequate materials, i.e. tarpaulins?

SES to advise LEMC.

Hazard: Risk Statement: Severe Storm Flash flooding entering houses and commercial buildings. Treatment options Adhere to SES local flood plan. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans.

Are the SES local flood plans up to date?

SES to advise LEMC.

Hazard: Risk Statement: Severe Storm Damage to pumps and fencing due to flash flooding. Treatment options Issue pump warnings. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of landowners.


SES to advise LEMC.

Hazard: Risk Statement: Severe Storm Road closures due to flash flooding. Treatment options Ensure road closures are adequately signposted.

Ensure adequate resources are available for quick restoration. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans and procedures.

Are the resources available locally to quickly signpost road closures?

SES to advise LEMC.

Are material resources readily available? Upper Hunter Shire Council to advise LEMC.


Hazard: Risk Statement: Severe Storm Fallen trees blocking roads. Treatment options Ensure resources are available for quick response. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans and procedures.

Are the resources available locally to quickly clear the roads?

SES to advise LEMC.

Hazard: Risk Statement: Severe Storm Fires started by lightning strikes. Treatment options Community awareness to report fires. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans and procedures.

Is the community aware of how to report a fire?

RFS to advise LEMC.


RISK ANALYSIS, EVALUATION AND PRIORITY LANDSLIP Element at risk


Consequence rating


People Injuries or fatalities from landslip.

RARE MINOR LOW Community Education Program.

Vehicle accident following land slip

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Provide warning signs on Scone-Moonan road.

Property Damage to buildings or fences by landslip.

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Community Education Program.


Closures due to landslip.

POSSIBLE INSIGNIFICANT LOW Signpost alternate routes.

Natural environment

Watercourse blocked by landslip.

UNLIKELY MINOR LOW Advise Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority.


TREATMENT OPTIONS EVALUATION Hazard: Risk Statement: Landslip For the identified risks, the levels of risk are low to moderate. Treatment options Upper Hunter Shire Council to consider. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of landholders.

Are landowners in susceptible areas aware of the risk of landslip?

Ongoing community education programme.


Is monitoring of the Scone Gloucester Road undertaken.



RISK ANALYSIS, EVALUATION AND PRIORITY EARTHQUAKE Element at risk


Consequence rating


People Death, injuries or entrapment by falling debris or building collapse

RARE MAJOR HIGH DISPLAN arrangements apply.

4

Property Damaged, collapsed or unstable pre 1994 buildings

RARE MAJOR HIGH DISPLAN arrangements apply.

4

Lifelines - power

Loss of electrical power to area

RARE MODERATE MODERATE Restore services expeditiously.

Lifelines - water

Disruption to water supply due to broken mains

RARE MINOR LOW Restore services expeditiously.

Lifelines - communications

Loss of communication facilities

RARE MODERATE MODERATE Restore services expeditiously.


Closure of roads and rail until structures are declared safe.

RARE MODERATE MODERATE Ensure closures are adequately signposted and adequate resources available for quick restoration.

Critical facilities

Damage to emergency control centres hampering operations

RARE MODERATE MODERATE DISPLAN arrangements apply.

Damage to hospitals, age care facilities and schools

RARE MODERATE MODERATE DISPLAN arrangements apply.

Local economy

Closure of commercial and industrial centres

RARE MINOR LOW DISPLAN recovery processes apply.

Loss of income to displaced workers

UNLIKELY MINOR LOW DISPLAN recovery processes apply.


TREATMENT OPTIONS EVALUATION Hazard: Risk Statement: Earthquake Death, injuries or entrapment by falling debris or building

collapse. Treatment options DISPLAN arrangements apply.

This is an acceptable risk due to the rare likelihood of an event. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans.

Is DISPLAN regularly updated? LEMO to advise LEMC.

Is accredited rescue training up to date?

SES to advise LEMC.

Hazard: Risk Statement: Earthquake Damaged, collapsed or unstable pre 1994 buildings Treatment options DISPLAN arrangements apply.

This is an acceptable risk due to the rare likelihood of an event. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans.

Is DISPLAN regularly updated?

LEMO to advise LEMC

Are all new buildings constructed to resist an earthquake?

Upper Hunter Shire Council to advise LEMC


RISK ANALYSIS, EVALUATION AND PRIORITY SNOW STORM Element at risk

Risk statement

Likelihood rating

Consequence rating

Risk level Treatment option

Priority

People Bushwalkers lost in snow.

LIKELY INSIGNIFICANT MODERATE Develop procedure for snow search.

Vehicle accident or vehicles trapped in snow.

LIKELY MINOR HIGH Develop procedure.

3

Property Damage to buildings due to roof collapse from snow load.

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Ensure buildings can withstand snow load.

Lifelines – roads

Closures due to ice and snow.

ALMOST CERTAIN

INSIGNIFICANT HIGH Ensure adequate signage.

5

Lifelines - power

Loss of power to area.

POSSIBLE INSIGNIFICANT LOW Provide timely access for linesmen.


TREATMENT OPTIONS EVALUATION Hazard: Risk Statement: Snow storm Vehicle accident or vehicles trapped in snow. Treatment options Develop a procedure. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans.

Does the SES have a protocol for rescue in snow?

SES to advise LEMC.

Does the SES have the resources to conduct a rescue in snow?

SES to advise LEMC

Hazard: Risk Statement: Snow storm Road closures due to ice and snow. Treatment options Ensure adequate signage. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans.

Are road closure procedures adequate to prevent entry to the area?



RISK ANALYSIS, EVALUATION AND PRIORITY HEATWAVE

Element at risk

Risk statement

Likelihood rating

Consequence rating


People Illness and fatalities among the elderly and chronically ill

POSSIBLE MAJOR EXTREME Maintain listing of vulnerable persons

1

Lifelines - power

Loss of electrical power due to overloading or over heating.

UNLIKELY MINOR LOW Restore service quickly.

Lifelines - water

Failure of water supply due to excessive use.

UNLIKELY MINOR LOW Apply timely restrictions to preserve supply.

Lifelines - road

Vehicles caught in traffic jam without cooling, water or food.

UNLIKELY MODERATE MODERATE Community Education.


TREATMENT OPTIONS EVALUATION Hazard: Risk Statement: Heatwave Illness and fatalities among the elderly and chronically ill. Treatment options Maintain list of vulnerable persons. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans.

Do police maintain a register of disabled and impaired citizens?

Police to advise LEMC.


RISK ANALYSIS, EVALUATION AND PRIORITY LAND GALE

Element at risk

Risk statement

Likelihood rating

Consequence rating


People Injuries or fatalities from falling trees or flying debris.

POSSIBLE MAJOR EXTREME Community Education program. Severe weather warning.

3

Property Wind damage to buildings

LIKELY MODERATE HIGH Provide severe weather warnings.

5

Lifelines – power

Loss of electrical power due to wind damage.

LIKELY MINOR HIGH Follow Energy Australia/Country Energy procedures for early resumption of services.

5

Lifelines - roads

Road closures due to fallen trees or power lines

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Ensure resources are available for quick response.

Natural environment

Damage to Forests.

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Advise State Forests.


TREATMENT OPTIONS EVALUATION Hazard: Risk Statement: Land gale Injuries or fatalities from falling trees or flying debris. Treatment options Community education programme. Severe weather warning. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of community.

Is the SES community safety awareness programme effective? Have surveys been conducted to measure the programmes effectiveness?

SES to advise LEMC


SES to advise LEMC

Hazard: Risk Statement: Land gale Wind damage to buildings. Treatment options Provide severe weather warnings Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of community.


SES to advise LEMC

Hazard: Risk Statement: Land gale Loss of electrical power due to wind damage. Treatment options Follow Energy Australia/Country Energy procedures for early

resumption of services. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of asset owner.

Are the electrical supply authority’s procedures regularly reviewed?

Electrical supply authorities to advise LEMC


RISK ANALYSIS, EVALUATION AND PRIORITY DROUGHT

Element at risk

Risk statement

Likelihood rating

Consequence rating


Priority

People Loss of income leading to feeling of helplessness and failure within the rural community.

LIKELY MODERATE HIGH Retain rural counsellors. Encourage rural networking.

3

Respiratory illness due to increased dust levels

POSSIBLE INSIGNIFICANT LOW Maintain listing of the vulnerable.

Lifelines – water

Disruption to water supply due to failure of supply.

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Timely introduction of restrictions.

Water restrictions affect industries.

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Encourage initiatives to reduce water usage.

Local economy

Loss of income for rural producers and local businesses.

LIKELY MODERATE HIGH Retain rural counsellors.

4

Natural Environment

Loss of vegetation and water sources

LIKELY INSIGNIFICANT MODERATE Encourage improved land management.

Wind erosion or erosion by heavy rain.

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Encourage improved land management.


TREATMENT OPTIONS EVALUATION Hazard: Risk Statement: Drought Loss of income leading to feeling of helplessness and failure

within the rural community. Treatment options Retain rural counsellors. Encourage rural networking. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of landholders.

Is rural networking effective? DPI to advise LEMC

Hazard: Risk Statement: Drought Loss of income for rural producers and local businesses. Treatment options Retain rural councillors. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing plans.

Are existing procedures adequate DPI to advise LEMC


RISK ANALYSIS, EVALUATION AND PRIORITY INFESTATION - ANIMAL Element at risk

Risk statement

Likelihood rating

Consequence rating


Priority

People Illness due to consumption of food contaminated by rodents.

UNLIKELY INSIGNIFICANT LOW Community Education.

Natural environment

Consumption of seed stocks by mice.

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Baiting program.

Animals Consumption of animal’s food supply by mice

POSSIBLE MINOR MODERATE Rodent proof storages. Baiting program.


RISK ANALYSIS, EVALUATION AND PRIORITY INFESTATION - INSECT Element at risk

Risk statement

Likelihood rating

Consequence rating

Risk level

Treatment option

Priority

Natural environment

Destruction of vegetation by plague locust.

UNLIKELY MINOR LOW Community vigilance. Notify Plague Locust Commission.

Animals Consumption of animal’s food sources by plague locust.

UNLIKELY MINOR LOW Community vigilance. Notify Plague Locust Commission.

Local economy

Destruction of crops by infestation of plague locust.

LIKELY MODERATE HIGH Community vigilance. Notify Plague Locust Commission.

6


TREATMENT OPTIONS EVALUATION Hazard: Risk Statement: Infestation - insect Destruction of crops by infestation of plague locust. Treatment options Community vigilance. Notify Plague Locust Commission. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of landholders.

How aware is the rural community to identify and notify hatchings.

DPI to advise LEMC.


RISK ANALYSIS, EVALUATION AND PRIORITY INFESTATION - PLANT Element at risk

Risk statement

Likelihood rating

Consequence rating


Priority

People Illness from contact with blue green algae.

POSSIBLE MODERATE HIGH Community education and warnings.

4

Allergic reaction from Parthenium Weed

POSSIBLE MODERATE HIGH Community education and warnings

9

Health effected by pesticides

UNLIKELY MODERATE MODERATE Community Education. Adherence to Labels.

Lifelines Contaminated water supplies.

LIKELY MODERATE HIGH Monitor and treat.

6

Natural environment

Contaminated waterways and dams.

LIKELY MINOR HIGH Community education and warnings.

8

Animals Poisoning by Parthenium Weed

LIKELY MINOR HIGH Issue warnings to landowners.

9


TREATMENT OPTIONS EVALUATION Hazard: Risk Statement: Infestation - plant Illness from contact with blue green algae. Treatment options Community education and warnings. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of the community.

Are the warning issued timely. DPI to advise LEMC.

Hazard: Risk Statement: Infestation – plant Allergic reaction from Pathenium Weed. Treatment options Community education and warnings. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of landholders.

Is the rural community aware of Pathenium Weed and can identify it.

DPI to advise.

Hazard: Risk Statement: Infestation – plant Contaminated water supplies. Treatment options Monitor and treat. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Adequacy of existing procedures.

Are the procedures for treating the Murrurundi Water Supply Dam regularly reviewed?


Hazard: Risk Statement: Infestation – plant Contaminated waterways and dams. Treatment options Community education and warnings. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of the community.

Are the warning issued timely. DPI to advise LEMC.


Hazard: Risk Statement: Infestation – plant Animals poisoned by Pathenium Weed. Treatment options Issue warnings to landowners. Assessment Criteria Questions Assessment Awareness and preparedness of the community.

Are landowners aware of the danger from Pathenium Weed?

DPI to advise LEMC.


APPENDIX 8

RISK TREATMENT PLAN - BUSHFIRE

ITEM DETAILS MONITORING AND REVIEW

Hazard

Bushfire Review annually

Risk statement

Fire causing fatalities, injuries, destruction of assets and infrastructure, both private and public and community disruption.

Monitor actual events

Consequences

Community trauma, loss of assets, disruption to lifelines.

Monitor actual event

Treatment option selected

Adherence to Bushfire Management Plan. Continuous community education. Hazard reduction.

RFS to continuously monitor adherence to Bush Fire Management Plan

Agency Responsibilities

RFS to monitor risk and carry out hazard reduction. UHSC to assist RFS. NPWS to monitor risk.

LEMC to monitor progress through agency reports

Agency contacts

Team Leader Steve Raymond, RFS Liverpool Range Zone. LEMO. Area Manager, Mudgee David Crust, NPWS Area Manager, Scone Dave Brown, NPWS UHSC managers

Confirm at each LEMC meeting.

Timeframe/ milestones

Annual review of adherence to the Bushfire Management Plan. Annual hazard reduction programme by each agency.

RFS to report at the June LEMC meeting. Agencies to advise LEMC at the October meeting

Date approved by LEMC

4th October 2006

Date Endorsed by DEMC

16 November 2006


RISK TREATMENT PLAN - FLOOD


Hazard

Flood Review annually

Risk statement

Flood causing fatalities, injuries, evacuations, destruction of assets and infrastructure, both private and public and community disruption.


Consequences




Adherence to Local Flood Plan. Continuous community education. Hazard warning signs.

SES to regularly update the Local Flood Plan.


SES to review Flood Plan annually and following each event. SES and UHSC to continue community education. UHSC to review warning signage annually.


Agency contacts

SES Local Controllers in Aberdeen, Merriwa, Murrurundi and Scone. UHSC managers



Local Flood Plans to be reviewed every third year. Annual review of warning signage.

SES to report progress on Local Flood Plan review to LEMC meeting. UHSC to advise LEMC in February


4th October 2006


16 November 2006


RISK TREATMENT PLAN - SEVERE STORM


Hazard

Severe storm Review annually

Risk statement

Severe storms causing fatalities, injuries or structural damage from flash flooding, wind or lightning.


Consequences




Adherence to the State Storm Plan. Continuous community education. Encourage hazard reduction.

SES to maintain resources to implement to plan.


SES to monitor risk and prepare to undertake tasks to assist the community during and after severe storms. SES and UHSC to continue community education. UHSC to monitor hazard reduction, i.e. tree maintenance.


Agency contacts

SES Local Controllers in Aberdeen, Merriwa, Murrurundi and Scone. UHSC managers.



Annual review of resources SES to report review of resources at June LEMC meeting.


4th October 2006


16 November 2006


RISK TREATMENT PLAN - EARTHQUAKE


Hazard

Earthquake Review annually

Risk statement

Death, injuries or entrapment by falling debris or building collapse.

Monitor actual events within Australia

Consequences




DISPLAN arrangements apply. Review DISPLAN at two yearly intervals.


LEMC to coordinate agencies review of their responsibilities under DISPLAN arrangements.

LEMO to monitor progress through agency reports

Agency contacts

Agency contact listed to be kept up to date. Confirm at each LEMC meeting.


Agencies to continually review their roles within the DISPLAN.

DISPLAN review to be completed at two yearly intervals.


4th October 2006


16 November 2006


RISK TREATMENT PLAN - SNOW STORM


Hazard

Snow storm Review annually

Risk statement

Vehicle accident or vehicles trapped in snow. Monitor actual events

Consequences

Rescue/recovery operations during adverse weather in remote areas.



Implement road closures to prevent access. Annual review of protocols following winter snow storms.


Upper Hunter Shire and Gloucester Shire Councils to coordinate annual reviews with Police, NPWS and State Forest input.

Review protocols following each winter.

Agency contacts

Upper Hunter Shire LEMO. Gloucester Shire LEMO.


Annual review of protocols following the winter snow falls.

LEMO to report review outcomes to the Spring LEMC meeting.


4th October 2006


16 November 2006


RISK TREATMENT PLAN - HEATWAVE


Hazard

Heatwave

Risk statement

Illness and fatalities among the elderly and chronically ill.


Consequences

Increased suffering among the elderly and chronically ill.



Monitor the vulnerable members of the community.


Welfare Services

Agency contacts



4th October 2006


16 November 2006


RISK TREATMENT PLAN - LAND GALE


Hazard

Land Gale

Risk statement

Land Gale causing fatalities or injuries from falling trees or flying debris.


Consequences




Adherence to the State Storm Plan. Continuous community education.

SES maintain resources to implement to plan.


SES to monitor risk and prepare to undertake tasks to assist the community during and after a land gale.


Agency contacts

SES Local Controllers in Aberdeen, Merriwa, Murrurundi and Scone.



Annual review of local resources. SES to report progress at each LEMC meeting.


4th October 2006


16 November 2006


RISK TREATMENT PLAN - DROUGHT


Hazard

Drought

Risk statement

Loss of income leading to feeling of helplessness and failure within the rural community.


Consequences

Personal and economic loss within the rural community.



Retention of Rural Councillors and encouragement of rural networks.


DPI to keep community advised of local conditions.

DPI to report during a declared drought on local conditions at LEMC meetings.

Agency contacts

DPI locally based officers and the Rural Land Protection Boards

Contact lists to be confirmed at each LEMC meeting.


DPI to advise LEMC during a declared drought.


4th October 2006


16 November 2006


RISK TREATMENT PLAN - INFESTATION - Insect


Hazard

Infestation – Insect

Risk statement

Destruction of crops by infestation of Plague locust


Consequences

Economic loss within the rural community.



Timely notification to the Plague Locust Commission.


DPI to keep community advised of local conditions.

DPI to report on extent of Plague Locust hatchings at LEMC meetings.

Agency contacts

DPI locally based officers and the Rural Land Protection Boards



DPI to advise LEMC of serious outbreaks of Plague Locust.


4th October 2006


16 November 2006


RISK TREATMENT PLAN - INFESTATION - Plant


Hazard

Infestation – Plant

Risk statement

Illness from contact with blue green algae or an allergic reaction from Pathenium Weed.


Consequences

Wide spread illness throughout the community.



Community education and timely warnings to the community.


DPI to keep community advised of local conditions. Upper Hunter Shire Council to monitor town water supplies.

Protocols to be revised annually and outcomes reported to LEMC.

Agency contacts

DPI locally based officers and Upper Hunter Shire Council water treatment staff.



The community to be advised immediately an outbreak is confirmed.

DPI to advise LEMC of serious outbreaks which may cause poisoning or allergic reactions.


4th October 2006


16 November 2006


RISK TREATMENT REVIEW TIMETABLE

HAZARD LEMC MEETING FEBRUARY JUNE OCTOBER Fire RFS report on

adherence to Bush Fire Management Plan

Agencies report on hazard reduction program

Flood SES to review Local Flood Plan every third year.

UHSC report on flood warning signage

Severe Storm Land Gale

SES to report on preparedness

Earthquake LEMO to review DISPLAN every second year

Snow Storm Recommend training for UHSC, GSC, local Police, State Forest & NPWS staff

Review protocols at end of snow season

Infestations DPI to advise on protocol reviews

Exercises 16 November 2006 Test DISPLAN arrangements every two years

Documents

NATURAL HAZARDS EMERGENCY RISK …...Infestation o Animal - rodents o Insect – plague locust o Plant – blue green algae - Parthenium Weed Risks identified The risks associated