In Summary
- Greater Shepparton’s drainage system manages stormwater through 448km of underground pipes, protecting roads, parks and properties from flooding.
- Stormwater can take between three to ten hours to drain after heavy rain, with features like retardation basins, Gross Pollutant Traps (GPTs), and Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) helping to manage water flow and reduce pollution.
- Council actively maintains and upgrades the drainage system, inspecting hotspots, replacing aging infrastructure, and using advanced equipment to prevent and remove blockages.
- Residents can help keep drains clear by disposing of green waste properly, securing rubbish on windy days, and reporting blocked drains, ensuring a more efficient stormwater network.
As our region experiences more intense rainfall events, it is important for the community to understand how the drainage system operates, why water sometimes takes longer to clear, and how residents can help keep it flowing efficiently.
Council’s Director Infrastructure, Gary Randhawa, said drainage maintenance is a key priority for Council.
“Our stormwater network is designed to move water away from roads and properties as efficiently as possible. However, when we experience heavy or prolonged rainfall, it is normal to see water sitting on the surface for a few hours," Mr Randhawa said.
"Depending on conditions, local stormwater drainage typically takes three to four hours to subside, and in some cases, up to 10 hours. We ask residents to wait before reporting concerns, as this is usually part of the normal drainage process."
Greater Shepparton’s drainage system relies on a combination of underground pipes, Gross Pollutant Traps (GPTs), retardation basins, and Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) to manage stormwater safely.
Retardation Basins hold excess stormwater temporarily, slowing the flow and reducing the risk of flooding. Some of Greater Shepparton’s parks are built within these basins, meaning it is normal to see water sitting in these areas after rain.
Gross Pollutant Traps (GPTs) capture litter, leaves and debris before they enter our waterways. Shepparton has several GPTs in key locations to help reduce pollution in our rivers and wetlands.
Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) contain features such as swale drains, which help filter and slow down stormwater while adding greenery to urban areas. Council crews also use hydro vac trucks, cameras and tripods to regularly inspect and clean pipes, preventing blockages before they occur.
“We have a dedicated team that inspects and maintains drainage hotspots, particularly in areas with older pipes. Council is also working to upgrade parts of the system, including replacing 100-year-old brick pits and improving drainage capacity in key areas,” Mr Randhawa said.
While Council actively maintains the drainage system, residents also play a role in keeping stormwater flowing efficiently.
- Dispose of green waste properly – Never blow leaves or grass clippings into the gutter. Use your green bin or compost instead.
- Secure rubbish on windy days – Loose plastic and litter often end up in drains, causing blockages.
- Report blocked drains – If a drain appears clogged and hasn’t cleared within a reasonable time, contact Council.
“Our teams often find surprising things in blocked drains - from toys and keys, to mobile phones and false teeth," Mr Randhawa said.
“Keeping rubbish out of stormwater drains not only helps reduce blockages but also protects our environment.”
Learn more about drainage in Greater Shepparton and find answers to frequently asked questions by tapping here.
