Woolgoolga

Studies and Plans

City of Coffs Harbour with the support of funding grants from NSW government have undertaken a Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan for Woolgoolga which was completed in 2016. The plans recommended options are now being investigated.

This followed the completion of a Flood Modelling Study for Woolgoolga in 2012, which produced comprehensive flood mapping. The primary objective was to define the flood behaviour of the Woolgoolga Lake catchment through the establishment of appropriate models. The study has produced information on flood flows, velocities, levels and extents for a range of flood event magnitudes under existing catchment and floodplain conditions. Specifically, the study incorporates: 

  • Compilation and review of existing information pertinent to the study and acquisition of additional data including survey as required; 

  •  Development and calibration of appropriate hydrologic and hydraulic models;

  •  Determination of design flood conditions for a range of design event including the 20% AEP, 5% AEP, 2% AEP, 1% AEP, 0.2% AEP and PMF event; and

  • Presentation of study methodology, results and findings in a comprehensive report incorporating appropriate flood mapping.

Current Works and Projects

As per a recommendation in the 2016 Woolgoolga Floodplain Risk Management Plan, a project looking at options to improve flood evacuation access for Sunset Caravan Park and the Turon Parade area of Woolgoolga was completed in 2019.

The outcomes of the Woolgoolga Flood Evacuation Investigation recommended three viable options including;

  • the raising of Bultitude Street to provide vehicular evacuation from the area
  • a "High Flood Island" and "Sheltered Muster Area" at Woolgoolga High School Agricultural Farm
  • a pedestrian footbridge over Jarret Creek

The three recommended options will now need to be investigated and prioritised through the City of Coffs Harbour's delivery program.