Parts of Hugh King Drive to close during flood

Published on 10 November 2016

The Victorian State Emergency Service (SES) has advised the Murray River is rising faster than expected and as a result, will peak higher than earlier predictions.

As part of the flood preparation works, Mildura Rural City Council will close public access to Hugh King Drive along the riverfront from the Mildura Wharf to the boat ramp tomorrow. The river access track from the top car park to the boat ramp will also be closed.

At this stage, the Water Play Park will remain open for the weekend, however, this may change as levels continue to rise. Residents can access the park via the wharf and Seventh Street car parks. The Water Play Park will be closed from Monday 14 November to allow for further mitigation works to be implemented.

Access to Lock 11 via Hugh King Drive will be closed from Cureton Avenue to the Lawn Tennis Club, as well as walking track closures from Cureton Avenue opposite the Rio Vista.

General Manager Community, Martin Hawson said these were temporary measures to ensure the safety of residents.

“We advised earlier this week there may be closures to some sites to allow for preparation and mitigation works to be implemented, and we have seen a quick change in the flood predictions which has reinforced the need for us to be appropriately prepared for this event,” he said.

“Access to these areas will be reviewed as further updates from the SES are received,” he said.

The SES predicts the Murray River to peak in Mildura around Thursday 17 November at a minor flooding level, similar to the 1996 flood event.

Council is reminding residents to observe all warning signs and closures to roads and walking tracks.

Emergency warnings, information or assistance is available on the SES website www.ses.vic.gov.au or by phoning 132 500. 

ENDS

Media enquiries
Rhonda Monaghan
p: 03 5018 8159 
e: rhonda.monaghan@mildura.vic.gov.au