RiverConnect Historical Flood Information Signage project completed

The original signage, previously known as the RiverConnect Flood Markers, was proudly created by RiverConnect in 2014 in collaboration with multiple agencies, and was installed to provide the community with a visual representation of past significant historical flood events.

Importantly, the signs are not flood level gauges and are not intended to provide real-time or predictive information during flood events. Their purpose is to share historical flood information in an accessible and visual way.

The RiverConnect Historical Flood Information Signage project engaged local company Michel Signs to support the graphic design process, with fabrication and installation, with the project completed this month.

Mayor, Councilor Shane Sali, welcomed the completion of the works and acknowledged the strong community interest in the project.

“These signs are an important way for our community to visually understand the history of flooding along our river system. Following enquiries from residents and feedback after the 2022 and 2024 floods, it was clear there was a desire for greater clarity about what the signs represent and how they should be used,” he said.

Following the flood events, Council successfully secured funding through the Australian and Victorian Government’s Flood Recovery Funding program to update and improve the signage messaging.

Council worked closely with the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority to base the historical flood level signs on available flood gauge data, along with forecasted and observed levels. Differences in the signage location and distance from official flood gauges mean recorded levels cannot be directly replicated on the signs at every site.

Additional information has also been added on the signage to clearly direct the community to responsible authorities and official sources for current flood warnings and emergency advice.

“This project was about improving consistency and understanding of the signage, as even with these updates, the signs remain a historical reference only,” Cr Sali said.

“Although indicative, they don’t represent exact flood levels during an event, and it’s important the community relies on official warnings and advice during a flood event.”

Council thanks the community for its ongoing interest and feedback and acknowledges the support of the Australian and Victorian Governments and the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority in delivering this project.

For further information, contact Council on 5832 9700 or email council@shepparton.vic.gov.au