Lismore City Council Prepares for Future Floods with Training Exercise

Lismore City Council is taking proactive steps to enhance its food preparedness with a Temporary Levee System Training Exercise scheduled for Sunday, 15 December 2024, from 7am to 1pm.

The exercise will simulate real-world food scenarios near Keen Street and Richmond Lane, allowing Council staff to practice setting up the Dutch Dam and plank wall systems and conduct an inventory of essential equipment.

Key Objectives of the Exercise

• Refne emergency response procedures

• Ensure operational readiness

• Test food barrier systems

Lismore City Council’s General Manager, Jon Gibbons, emphasized the importance of this training:

“By simulating realworld scenarios, the exercise helps refne emergency response procedures and maintain operational readiness.”

About the Flood Barrier Systems

• Dutch Dam:

• Made of lightweight, reusable interlocking panels

• Forms a watertight barrier

• Can be quickly assembled

Plank Wall System:

• Horizontal planks supported by vertical beams

• Adjustable and sealed to prevent water seepage

• Offers fexible protection These systems are designed to defect and break up highvelocity foodwater, protecting buildings and infrastructure from damage and debris.

Community Collaboration

Lismore City Mayor, Steve Krieg, emphasized the broader signifcance of the exercise:

“By rehearsing and refning our response, we ensure everyone involved knows their role and can act swiftly to protect lives and property.” Council is also committed to minimizing disruptions to residents and businesses during the exercise. Proactive measures include:

• Correspondence with residents and businesses

• Face-to-face letter drops

• Providing clear information about the exercise Building Community Resilience

Mr. Gibbons highlighted the Council’s dedication to strengthening Lismore’s food readiness and collaboration with the community to face future challenges effectively.

For more information on disaster preparedness, residents can access the latest edition of Local Matters at: www.lismore.nsw.gov. au/Council/News/LocalMatters.

This exercise underscores Lismore City Council’s commitment to safeguarding its community and infrastructure against potential food events.