Narrabri Shire flood damage update

Published on 30 March 2023

Narrabri Shire has sustained extensive damage to its road and transport from the September through November 2022 flood events. Unlike previous flooding events, the damages sustained across the Shire were geographically widespread and range from minor gravel loss on unsealed roads to catastrophic failures of large concrete structures.

In line with the NSW Government’s Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, Council is responding to the damages within the required timeline for Emergency Works after an Extension of Time was granted by Transport for NSW. Currently, Council has inspected and logged approximately 1,320 damages to road and transport assets. To date, Council has incurred roughly $1.3m in costs associated with the provision of Emergency Works, with costs continuing to occur as further damage is recognised.

Strategic estimates indicate a potential flood damage claim of upwards of $21m, with assets including Maules Creek Road causeway, Bald Hill Road and Clump Road likely requiring full reconstructions following structural capability assessments.

Council continues to work on strategies to mitigate resourcing risks, with current Capital Works alongside flood recovery works, requiring a significant commitment of operational and supervisory staff as well as external resources. While the Narrabri to Moree section of the Inland Rail project has been finalised, upcoming projects including the Narrabri to Narromine inland rail, Narrabri to Turrawan line upgrade and Whitehaven developments, it is expected that Council will face significant impacts to its operations.

“Narrabri Shire is not immune to the general labour market that’s being seen across the country. Add to this a number conflicting projects across our region, and it’s the perfect storm for staff and material shortages,” Councillor Ron Campbell said.

“We understand the frustrations and concerns of our residents in terms of the pace of works and accordingly, Council is investigating a range of control strategies including work packages, specialised consultants, and supply tenders to keep things on track as much as possible”.

Council is in the process of developing an initial program of works focussing on high traffic haulage routes associated with the upcoming sorghum and cotton harvests throughout the shire.