News

Message from Federal Member for Nicholls

By Tyler Maher

Oct 14, 2022

Help available: Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell's message to residents is to reach out for support when they need it. Photo: Megan Fisher. Photo by Megan Fisher

Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell says the flood emergency across the region has demonstrated the true spirit of regional communities.

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Mr Birrell, who has been on the ground in Rochester, Murchison and Seymour in the past 24 hours, has witnessed first-hand how communities are supporting each other and doing the best they can to protect properties.

“Despite the scale of the flood emergency, which is far from over, people are supporting each other, helping to sandbag and providing food and shelter to those who have had to move to higher ground,” he said.

“More than 300 properties have been impacted in Seymour, and flood waters are yet to peak at Murchison and Shepparton where the 1974 major flood level could be exceeded. If that occurs, an estimated 4000 properties in Shepparton will be impacted, some above floor level.

“The most important things as this emergency unfolds are to stay safe, help those around you where you can, and continue to monitor emergency information through www.emergency.vic.gov.au

“I have held discussions with all the impacted municipalities and Greater Shepparton City Council, which is bracing for a difficult weekend ahead as the Goulburn River flood-water peak arrives.

“I have also spoken with Senator Murray Watt, Minister for Emergency Management, Opposition leader Peter Dutton and Nationals deputy leader and Shadow Minister for Emergency Management Perin Davey, who have all indicated their full support and preparedness to respond appropriately once the full extent of the damage and the recovery task is known.

“For now, we are still dealing with an ongoing emergency, and I urge everyone to take care, avoid unnecessary travel and let the emergency services do their job.”

A Victorian emergency relief assistance payment is available as a one-off payment to help flood victims with immediate household and essential needs — you can apply at emergencypayments.dffh.vic.gov.au