‘Climate change is here with us’ says Deputy Mayor: Clarence flood watch

Double barrelled flood preparations are ongoing in Clarence Valley as the SES prepare for flooding along the Orara River while the council reaffirmed its commitment to climate issues.

Residents across the Clarence Valley are experiencing diverse conditions and warnings as the rain continues but commitment and resilience remain at the fore.

The latest flood watch for the Clarence indicates minor to moderate flooding and there is a flood warning in place for the Orara River for moderate to major flooding.

Flood watch Ulmarra SES Unit Commander Sue Chappell reported river rises at 7.30am this morning of 4.7 metres at Tabulam, 4.28 metres at Lilydale and 2.38 metres at Glenreagh.

The areas presenting the main concerns for the valley are those along the Orara River particularly Glenreagh and Coutts Crossing.

Tallawudjah Creek, Glenreagh flows into the Orara River which is on flood watch for moderate to major flooding.

Sue Chappell’s message to residents who have previously been isolated is to stock up on food, fuel and medication so they don’t have to rely on volunteers to help them

“A lot of residents know the difficulties they face and the rivers will be rising with all this rain so if they have extra supplies and it ends up they don’t need them that will be a bonus,” she said.

The SES has deployed lots of additional vehicles and boats to the area.

They have also engaged other services to support them including the Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue, Surf Life Saving NSW and the Australian Defence Force.

George Szekely Unit Commander Clarence said all nine Clarence units are preparing sandbags for any requests they receive.

Clarence Valley Council Deputy Mayor Greg Clancy said he was personally saddened by what’s happening again.

“Its incredible one disaster after another that has hit the valley,” he said.

It’s quite clear that climate change is here with us and we are going to have to adapt to do our best to reduce it in the long term.”

Mr Clancy said the Clarence Valley Council has already acknowledged a climate emergency and remain committed to “bring into play methods addressing climate change”.

These include a workshop on climate related issues such as planning for flood plains in the valley.