Singleton
February 2018
To be reviewed no later than February 2023
SINGLETON FLOOD EMERGENCY SUB PLAN
A Sub-Plan of the Singleton Local Emergency Management Plan (EMPLAN)
Volume 1 of the Singleton Local Flood Plan
Singleton Local Flood Plan
AUTHORISATION
The Singleton Flood Emergency Sub Plan is a sub plan of the Singleton Local Emergency Management Plan (EMPLAN). It has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of the State Emergency Service Act 1989 (NSW) and is authorised by the Local Emergency Management Committee in accordance with the provisions of the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act 1989 (NSW).
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CONTENTS
AUTHORISATION ...... i CONTENTS ...... ii LIST OF TABLES ...... iii DISTRIBUTION LIST ...... iv VERSION HISTORY ...... v AMENDMENT LIST ...... v LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS ...... vi GLOSSARY ...... viii PART 1 - INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Purpose ...... 1 1.2 Authority ...... 1 1.3 Area Covered by the Plan ...... 1 1.4 Description of Flooding and its Effects ...... 1 1.5 Responsibilities ...... 1 PART 2 - PREPAREDNESS ...... 18 2.1 Maintenance of this Plan ...... 18 2.2 Floodplain Risk Management ...... 18 2.3 Development of Flood Intelligence...... 18 2.4 Development of Warning Systems ...... 18 2.5 Community Resilience ...... 19 2.6 Training ...... 19 2.7 Resources ...... 20 PART 3 - RESPONSE ...... 21 3.1 Control Arrangements ...... 21 3.2 Operational Management ...... 21 3.3 Start of Response Operations ...... 21 3.4 Response Strategies ...... 22 3.5 Operations Centres ...... 23 3.6 Liaison ...... 23 3.7 End of Response Operations...... 24 3.8 Collating Situational Information ...... 24 3.9 Provision of Flood Information and Warnings ...... 25 3.10 Aircraft Management ...... 28 3.11 Assistance for Animals ...... 28 3.12 Communication Systems ...... 28 3.13 Preliminary Deployments ...... 29 3.14 Road and Traffic Control ...... 29 3.15 Stranded Travellers ...... 29 3.16 Managing Property Protection Operations ...... 30 3.17 Managing Flood Rescue Operations ...... 30 3.18 Managing Evacuation Operations ...... 30
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3.19 Managing Resupply Operations ...... 36 PART 4 - RECOVERY...... 38 4.1 Recovery Coordination at the Local level ...... 38 4.2 Recovery Coordination at the Region and State level ...... 38 4.3 Arrangements for Debriefs / After Action Reviews ...... 39 ATTACHMENT 1 - Resupply Flowchart ...... 40 ATTACHMENT 2 - Dam Failure Alert Notification Arrangements Flowchart ...... 41 ATTACHMENT 3 - Singleton LGA Map ...... 42 LIST OF REFERENCES ...... 43
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Dam Failure Alert Levels ...... 27
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DISTRIBUTION LIST
This Local Flood Plan is distributed through the NSW State Emergency Service in electronic format and is maintained on the NSW SES (https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/) website. Recipient Number of Copies NSW SES Singleton Local Controller 1 NSW SES Singleton Unit 1 NSW SES Hunter Region Headquarters 1 NSW SES State Headquarters 1 Singleton Council, Local Emergency Operations Controller 1 Singleton Council, Local Emergency Management Committee Members 1 per member Singleton Council, Local Emergency Management Officer 1 Singleton Council, Mayor 1 Singleton Council, General Manager 1 Singleton Council, Technical Services Department 1 Singleton Council – Council Library 1 Singleton Community Recovery and Resilience Committee 1 Singleton Hospital 1 Water NSW, Water Systems Manager, North 1 Hunter Water, Dams and Catchments 1 NSW Police Force, Hunter Valley District 1 Fire and Rescue NSW, Regional West 2 Bathurst – Zone Commander 1 NSW Ambulance, Hunter New England Sector Regional Office 1 Office of Environment and Heritage 1 Hunter New England Health, Manager Disaster Response and Recovery 1 Schools – Singleton Local Government Area (as per annex) 1 each Caravan Parks (as per annex) 1 each Catholic Education Office, Newcastle 1 Department of Education and Communities, Muswellbrook 1 Department of Family and Community Services, Muswellbrook 1 Hunter Valley Mines Rescue, Singleton 1
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VERSION HISTORY
The following Table lists all previously endorsed versions of this plan.
Description Date
Singleton Shire Local Flood Plan November 2006 Singleton Shire Local Flood Plan May 2013
AMENDMENT LIST
Suggestions for amendments to this plan should be forwarded to:
The Singleton Local Controller NSW State Emergency Service 9-11 Queen Street SINGLETON NSW 2330
Amendment Description Updated by Date Number
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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
The following abbreviations have been used in this plan:
AEP Annual Exceedance Probability
AHD Australian Height Datum
AIIMS Australasian Inter-service Incident Management System
ARI Average Recurrence Interval (Years)
ALERT Automated Local Evaluation in Real Time
AWRC Australian Water Resources Council
BUREAU Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology
CBRN Chemical, Biological, Radiation or Nuclear
DCF Dam Crest Flood
DSC Dams Safety Committee
DSEP Dam Safety Emergency Plan
DVR Disaster Victim Registration
EMPLAN Emergency Management Plan
FRNSW Fire and Rescue NSW
GIS Geographic Information System
GRN Government Radio Network
IAP Incident Action Plan
ICC Incident Control Centre
IMT Incident Management Team
LEMC Local Emergency Management Committee
LEOCON Local Emergency Operations Controller
LO Liaison Officer
LGA Local Government Area
MHL Manly Hydraulics Laboratory
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NOW NSW Office of Water
NSW RFS New South Wales Rural Fire Service
NSW SES NSW State Emergency Service
OEH Office of Environment and Heritage (previously DECCW)
PMF Probable Maximum Flood
PMR Private Mobile Radio
PMP Probable Maximum Precipitation
PIIC Public Information and Inquiry Centre
REMC Region Emergency Management Committee
REMO Regional Emergency Management Officer
RMS Roads and Maritime Services
RFS Rural Fire Service
SDOC NSW SES State Duty Operations Controller
SEOCON State Emergency Operations Controller
SERCON State Emergency Recovery Controller
SEWS Standard Emergency Warning Signal
SITREP Situation Report
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GLOSSARY
Annual Exceedance Probability (AEP). The chance of a flood of a given or larger size occurring in any one year, usually expressed as a percentage. For example, if a peak flood level (height) has an AEP of 5%, there is a 5% chance (that is, a one-in-20 chance) of such a level or higher occurring in any one year (see also Average Recurrence Interval).
Assistance Animal. A guide dog, a hearing assistance dog or any other animal trained to assist a person to alleviate the effect of a disability (Refer to Section 9 of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992).
Assembly Area. An assembly area is a designated location used for the assembly of emergency-affected persons before they move to temporary accommodation or a nominated evacuation centre. As such these areas do not provide welfare assistance nor are they used for long term sheltering or provision of meals. An assembly area may also be a prearranged, strategically placed area, where support response personnel, vehicles and other equipment can be held in readiness for use during an emergency.
Australian Height Datum (AHD). A common national surface level datum approximately corresponding to mean sea level.
Average Recurrence Interval (ARI). The long-term average number of years between the occurrences of a flood as big as, or larger than, the selected event. For example, floods reaching a height as great as, or greater than, the 20 year ARI flood event will occur on average once every 20 years.
Catchment (River Basin). The land area draining through the main stream, as well as tributary streams, to a particular site. It always relates to an area above a specific location.
Coastal Erosion. The loss of land along the shoreline predominantly by the offshore movement of sand during storms.
Coastal Flooding. Flooding due to tidal or storm-driven coastal events, including storm surges in lower coastal waterways. This can be exacerbated by wind-wave generation from storm events (1).
Dambreak Study. A Dambreak Study is undertaken to determine the likely downstream inundation areas in case of a dam failure. Modelling is undertaken for a range of dam breach possibilities and design floods. The dambreak study includes information such as the extent of flooding, flood travel times and flood water velocities. The study can assist dam owners, regulators, and emergency agencies in
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the preparations of evacuation plans, dam break and other flood warning systems, and hazard classification of affected areas.
Dam Failure. The uncontrolled release of a water storage. The failure may consist of the collapse of the dam or some part of it, or excessive seepage or discharges. The most likely causes of dam failure are:
Flood Induced Dam Failure: Dam failure caused by flood, either due to overtopping erosion or by subsequent structural failure. Sunny Day Dam Failure: Dam Failure as a result of factors other than flood i.e. other than flood flow into the reservoir. Causes of "Sunny Day" dam failure can include internal erosion, landslide, piping, earthquake or sabotage. Dam Safety Emergency Plan (DSEP). A DSEP outlines the required actions of owners and their personnel at dams in response to a range of possible emergency situations. The NSW Dam Safety Committee requires a quality controlled DSEP, with associated dambreak warning procedures to be prepared for prescribed dams where persons may be at risk downstream, if the dam failed.
Design Flood (or Flood Standard). A flood of specified magnitude that is adopted for planning purposes. Selections should be based on an understanding of flood behaviour and the associated flood risk, and take account of social, economic and environmental considerations. There may be several design floods for an individual area.
Emergency Alert. The national telephone warning system used by emergency services to send voice messages to landlines and text messages to mobile phones within a defined area, about likely or actual emergencies.
EMPLAN (Emergency Management Plan). The Plan established in accordance with the provisions in the State Emergency Rescue Management Act 1989. The object of an EMPLAN is to ensure the coordinated response by all agencies having responsibilities and functions in emergencies.
Essential Services. Those services, often provided by local government authorities that are considered essential to the life of organised communities. Such services include power, lighting, water, gas, sewerage and sanitation clearance.
Evacuation. The temporary movement of people from a dangerous or potentially dangerous place to a safe location, and their eventual return. It is a safety strategy which uses distance to separate people from the danger created by the hazard.
Evacuation Order. Notification to the community, authorised by the NSW SES, when the intent of an Incident Controller is to instruct a community to immediately evacuate in response to an imminent threat.
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Evacuation Warning. Notification to the community, authorised by the NSW SES, when the intent of an Incident Controller is to warn a community of the need to prepare for a possible evacuation.
Flash Flooding. Flooding which is sudden and often unexpected because it is caused by sudden local or nearby heavy rainfall. It is sometimes defined as flooding which occurs within six hours of the rain that causes it.
Flood. Relatively high water level which overtops the natural or artificial banks in any part of a stream, river, estuary, lake or dam, and/or local overland flooding associated with drainage before entering a watercourse, and/or coastal inundation resulting from super-elevated sea levels and/or waves overtopping coastline defences, including Tsunami.
Flood Classifications. Locally defined flood levels used in flood warnings to give an indication of the severity of flooding (minor, moderate or major) expected. These levels are used by the State Emergency Service and the Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology in flood bulletins and flood warnings.
Flood Intelligence. The product of collecting, collating, analysing and interpreting flood- related data to produce meaningful information (intelligence) to allow for the timely preparation, planning and warning for and response to a flood.
Flood Fringe. The remaining area of flood prone land after floodway and flood storage have been defined.
Flood Liable Land (also referred to as Flood Prone Land). Land susceptible to flooding by the Probable Maximum Flood (PMF) event. This term also describes the maximum extent of a floodplain which is an area of a river valley, adjacent to the river channel, which is subject to inundation in floods up to this event.
Flood of Record. Maximum observed historical flood.
Floodplain. Area of land which is subject to inundation by floods up to and including the probable maximum flood event, that is, flood prone land (2).
Floodplain Management Plan. A plan developed in accordance with the principles and guidelines in the New South Wales Floodplain Development Manual. Such a plan usually includes both written and diagrammatic information describing how particular areas of flood prone land can be used and managed to achieve defined objectives.
Flood Plan. A response strategy plan that deals specifically with flooding and is a sub-plan of an Emergency Management Plan. Flood plans describe agreed roles, responsibilities, functions, strategies and management arrangements for the
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conduct of flood operations and for preparing for them. A flood plan contains information and arrangements for all floods whereas an Incident Action Plan (IAP) is for a specific flood/event.
Flood Rescue. The rescue or retrieval of persons trapped by floodwaters.
Flood Storage Areas. Those parts of the floodplain that are important for the temporary storage of floodwaters during the passage of a flood. The extent and behaviour of flood storage areas may change with flood severity, and loss of flood storage can increase the severity of flood impacts by reducing natural flood attenuation.
Floodway. An area where a significant volume of water flows during floods. Such areas are often aligned with obvious naturally-defined channels and are areas that, if partially blocked, would cause a significant redistribution of flood flow which may in turn adversely affect other areas. They are often, but not necessarily, the areas of deeper flow or the areas where higher velocities occur.
Flood Watch. A Flood Watch is a notification of the potential for a flood to occur as a result of a developing weather situation and consists of short generalised statements about the developing weather including forecast rainfall totals, description of catchment conditions and indicates streams at risk. The Bureau will also attempt to estimate the magnitude of likely flooding in terms of the adopted flood classifications. Flood Watches are normally issued 24 to 36 hours in advance of likely flooding. Flood watches are issued on a catchment wide basis.
Flood Warning. A Flood Warning is a gauge specific forecast of actual or imminent flooding. Flood Warnings specify the river valley, the locations expected to be flooded, the likely severity of flooding and when it will occur.
Functional Area. A category of services involved in the preparations for an emergency, including the following:
Agriculture and Animal Services Energy and Utility Services Engineering Services Environmental Services Health Services Public Information Services Telecommunication Services Transport Services Welfare Services
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Geographic Information System (GIS). A geographic information system (GIS) integrates hardware, software, and data for capturing, managing, analysing, and displaying all forms of geographically referenced information.
Incident. An event, occurrence or set of circumstances which has a definite spatial extent, has a definite duration, calls for human intervention has a set of concluding conditions that can be defined, and is or will be under the control of an individual who has the authority to make decisions about the means by which it will be brought to an end. AIIMS identifies three classes of incident:
Level One incidents are characterised as being able to be resolved through the use of local or initial response resources only.
Level Two incidents are more complex in size, resources or risk characterised by the need for deployment of resources beyond initial response, sectorisation of the incident and/or the establishment of functional section due to the levels of complexity.
Level Three incidents are characterised by degrees of complexity that may require divisions for effective management of the situation and usually involve delegation of all functions.
Incident Controller. An Incident Controller is appointed for every incident and is responsible and accountable for all the functions of incident management.
Incident Action Plan (IAP). An action plan for managing a specific event. Information from the Local Flood Plan is used to develop the flood IAP.
Indirect Effect. Indirect effects are generally a consequence of infrastructure damage or interruption of services and can affect communities distant from the actual flood footprint i.e. floodplain. Indirect effects can also refer to indirect losses due to disruption of economic activity, both in areas which are inundated or isolated. Indirect effects are one of the three primary sources of risk in the context of flooding (the other two are inundation and isolation).
Inundation. See definition for Flood.
Incident Control Centre (ICC). The location where the Incident Controller and various members of the Incident Management Team provide overall direction of response activities.
Incident Management Team (IMT). The group of incident management personnel compromised of the Incident Controller and any appointed Deputy Incident Controller(s), the Safety Officer, and any appointed functional officers leading the sections of Planning, Intelligence, Public Information, Operations, Investigations,
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Logistics and Finance. The Incident Controller has power to co-opt others as members of the IMT.
Isolation. Properties and/or communities where flooding cuts access to essential services or means of supply. Isolation is one of the three primary sources of risk in the context of flooding (the other two are inundation and indirect effects).
Liaison Officer (LO). A person, nominated or appointed by an organisation or functional area, to represent that organisation or functional area at a control centre, emergency operations centre, or coordination centre. A liaison officer maintains communications with and conveys directions/requests to their organisation or functional area, and provides advice on the status, capabilities, actions and requirements of their organisation or functional area (3).
Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC). The LEMC is responsible for the preparation of plans in relation to the prevention of, preparation for, response to and recovery from emergencies in the local government area for which it is constituted. In the exercise of its functions, the Committee is responsible to the Region Emergency Management Committee (REMC) and may communicate with the REMC for matters associated with Functional Areas that are not represented at the local Level.
Local Overland Flooding. Inundation by local runoff rather than overbank discharge from a stream, river, estuary, lake or dam.
Major Flooding. Flooding which causes inundation of extensive rural areas, with properties, villages and towns are isolated and/or appreciable urban areas flooded.
Minor Flooding. Flooding which causes inconvenience such as closing of minor roads and the submergence of low-level bridges. The lower limit of this class of flooding, on the reference gauge, is the initial flood level at which landholders and/or townspeople begin to be affected in a significant manner that necessitates the issuing of a public flood warning by the Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology.
Moderate Flooding. Flooding which inundates low-lying areas, requiring removal of stock and/or evacuation of some houses. Main traffic routes may be covered.
Moveable Dwellings. Any tent, or any caravan or other van or other portable device (whether on wheels or not), used for human habitation, or a manufactured home, or any conveyance, structure or thing of a class or description prescribed by the (Local Government) regulations (4).
Operations Commander. The individual commanding an operational area. An Operations Command may be established for an area with multiple incident management
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teams functioning, and can cross local government and NSW SES Region boundaries.
Peak Height. The highest level reached, at a nominated gauging station, during a particular flood event.
Prescribed Dam. "Prescribed" dams are those listed in Schedule 1 of the Dams Safety Act 1978. The NSW Dam Safety Committee will prescribe those dams with the potential for a failure which could have a significant adverse effect on community interests.
Probable Maximum Flood (PMF). The largest flood that could conceivably be expected to occur at a particular location, usually estimated from probable maximum precipitation. The PMF defines the maximum extent of flood prone land, that is, the floodplain. It is difficult to define a meaningful Annual Exceedance Probability for the PMF, but it is commonly assumed to be of the order of 104 to 107 (once in 10,000 to 10,000,000 years).
Riverine Flooding. Inundation of normally dry land occurring when water overflows the natural or artificial banks of a stream, river, estuary, lake or dam. Riverine flooding generally excludes watercourses constructed with pipes or artificial channels considered as stormwater channels (1).
Runoff. The amount of rainfall which ends up as stream flow, also known as ‘rainfall excess’ since it is the amount remaining after accounting for other processes such as evaporation and infiltration.
Stage Height. A level reached, at a nominated gauging station, during the development of a particular flood event.
State Duty Operations Controller (SDOC). The SDOC is a position delegated by the NSW SES State Controller, operating on a rotating roster, to provide advice and support to an Incident Controller and/or Operations Commander when required. The SDOC may be appointed to the role of Incident Controller if, and when, it is necessary.
Stream Gauging Station. A place on a river or stream at which the stage height is routinely measured, either daily or continuously, and where the discharge is measured from time to time so as to develop a relationship between stage and discharge or rating curve.
Total Flood Warning System. A flood warning system is made up of components which must be integrated if the system is to operate effectively. Components of the total flood warning system include monitoring rainfall and river flows, prediction, interpretation of the likely impacts, construction and dissemination of warning messages, response by agencies and community members, and review of the warning system after flood events (5).
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PART 1 - INTRODUCTION
1.1 PURPOSE
1.1.1 This plan covers preparedness measures, the conduct of response operations and the coordination of immediate recovery measures from flooding within the Singleton LGA. It covers operations for all levels of flooding within the council area. 1.1.2 Notification regarding the activation of any aspect of the plan by the NSW SES will be made to the Local Emergency Management Officer (LEMO) and Local Emergency Operations Controller (LEOCON) at the earliest opportunity.
1.2 AUTHORITY
1.2.1 This plan is issued under the authority of the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act 1989 (NSW) and the State Emergency Service Act 1989 (NSW). It has been approved by the NSW SES Singleton Local Controller and the NSW SES Hunter Region Controller as a NSW SES plan and endorsed by the Singleton Local Emergency Management Committee as a sub plan of the Local Emergency Management Plan (EMPLAN).
1.3 AREA COVERED BY THE PLAN
1.3.1 The area covered by the plan is the Singleton Local Government Area (LGA) (Attachment 3) which includes: The town of Singleton The villages of Broke, Jerrys Plains, Camberwell, Warkworth, Branxton and Bulga. Large parts of the Wollemi, Yengo and Mt Royal National Parks. Large areas of rural and forested land. 1.3.2 The LGA is in the NSW SES Hunter Region and for emergency management purposes is part of the Hunter/Central Coast Emergency Management Region.
1.4 DESCRIPTION OF FLOODING AND ITS EFFECTS
1.4.1 The NSW SES maintains information on the nature of flooding and effects of flooding on the community in the Singleton LGA.
1.5 RESPONSIBILITIES
1.5.1 The general responsibilities of emergency service organisations and supporting services (functional areas) are listed in the State EMPLAN. Some specific responsibilities are expanded upon in the following paragraphs. The extent of their implementation will depend on the severity of the flooding.
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1.5.2 NSW SES Singleton Local Controller. The NSW SES Singleton Local Controller is responsible for managing flood emergencies as detailed in the State Flood Plan, and will: Preparedness a. Maintain a Local Headquarters at 9-11 Queen Street SINGLETON in accordance with the NSW SES Controller’s Guide and the NSW SES Operations Manual. b. Ensure that NSW SES members are trained to undertake operations in accordance with current policy as laid down in the NSW SES Controller’s Guide and the NSW SES Operations Manual. c. Contribute to the development and operation of a flood warning service for the community. d. Participate in floodplain risk management initiatives organised by the Singleton Council. e. Represent the NSW SES at Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMC) and contribute to LEMC emergency planning processes. f. Coordinate a community engagement and capacity building program regarding local flood issues and associated risks to assist communities in building resilience to floods. This program will involve other agencies (such as NSW Rural Fire Service, NSW Ambulance) and organisations (Local Land Services, Community Groups, and Singleton Council) as required. g. Identify and monitor people and/or communities at risk of flooding. h. Ensure that the currency of this plan is maintained. Response i. The NSW SES will appoint an appropriate Incident Controller to coordinate emergency response roles. The appointed Incident Controller will: j. Control flood response operations. This includes: Directing the activities of the NSW SES units operating within the LGA. Coordinating the activities of supporting agencies and organisations and ensuring that liaison is established with them. Approve the Incident Action Plan k. Coordinate the provision of information services in relation to: Flood heights and flood behaviour. Road conditions and closures. Advice on methods of limiting property damage. Confirmation of evacuation warnings and evacuation orders. l. Direct the conduct of flood rescue operations.
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m. Coordinate the evacuation of people and/or communities. n. Provide immediate welfare support for evacuated people. o. Coordinate the provision of emergency food and medical supplies to isolated people and/or communities. p. Coordinate operations to assist the community to protect property. This may include: Arranging resources for sandbagging operations. Lifting or moving household furniture. Lifting or moving commercial stock and equipment. q. Arrange for support (for example, accommodation and meals) for emergency service organisation members and volunteers assisting them. r. Ensure that the managers of caravan parks are advised of flood warnings and the details of any evacuation order. s. If NSW SES resources are available, assist with emergency fodder supply operations conducted by Agriculture and Animal Services. t. If NSW SES resources are available, assist the NSW Police Force, RMS and Council with road closure and traffic control operations. u. Exercise financial delegations relating to the use of emergency orders as laid down in the NSW SES Controllers’ Guide. v. Coordinate the collection of flood information for development of intelligence. w. Submit Situation Reports to the NSW SES Hunter Region Headquarters, LEMO, LEOCON and agencies assisting within the LGA. These should contain information on: Road conditions and closures. Current flood behaviour. Current operational activities. Likely future flood behaviour. Likely future operational activities. Probable resource needs. x. Keep the Local Emergency Operations Controller advised of the flood situation and the operational response. y. Issue the ‘All Clear’ when flood operations have been completed. Recovery z. Ensure that appropriate After Action Reviews are held after floods. aa. Provide appropriate representation to the Recovery Committee for the duration of the response phase of an event and as agreed during the recovery phase.
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1.5.3 NSW SES Singleton Unit Members a. Carry out flood response tasks. These may include: The management of the NSW SES Singleton Incident Control Centre. Assist in the collection of flood information for the development of intelligence. Flood rescue. Evacuation. Providing immediate welfare for evacuated people. Delivery of warnings and information. Resupply. Sandbagging. Lifting and/or moving household furniture and commercial stock where resources and time permit. Animal rescue. Assisting with road closure and traffic control operations where resourcing permits. Assisting with emergency fodder supply operations where resourcing permits. b. Assist with preparedness activities. c. Undertake training in flood and storm response operations. 1.5.4 Singleton Local Emergency Operations Controller (LEOCON) a. Monitor flood operations. b. Request and coordinate support to the NSW SES Incident Controller if requested to do so. c. Consider establishing an Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) in support of NSW SES. 1.5.5 Singleton Local Emergency Management Officer (LEMO) a. Provide executive support to the Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC) and LEOCON in accordance with the Singleton EMPLAN. b. At the request of the NSW SES Incident Controller, advise appropriate agencies and officers of the start of response operations.
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1.5.6 Singleton Council Preparedness a. Develop and implement Floodplain Risk Management Plans in accordance with the NSW Government’s Flood Prone Land Policy and the Floodplain Development Manual. b. Establish and maintain Floodplain Risk Management Committees and ensure that key agencies are represented on such committees. c. Provide levee studies, flood studies and floodplain management studies to the NSW SES. d. Maintain a plant and equipment resource list for the council area. e. Work with NSW SES on the development and implementation of a community engagement and capacity building program. Response f. Assist the NSW SES in flood response operations. Singleton Council may be asked to: g. Close and reopen council roads (and other roads nominated by agreement with the RMS) and advise the NSW SES Incident Controller and the Police. h. Provide information to the public on the status of roads. i. Provide filled sandbags to urban and village areas in which flooding is expected. j. Assist with the removal of caravans from caravan parks. k. In the event of evacuations, assist with making facilities available for the domestic pets and companion animals of evacuees. Recovery l. Provide for the management of health hazards associated with flooding. This includes removing debris and waste. m. Ensure premises are fit and safe for reoccupation and assess any need for demolition. n. Arrange for storage of evacuees' furniture as required. 1.5.7 Community Members Preparedness a. Understand the potential risk and impact of flooding. b. Prepare homes and property to reduce the impact of flooding. c. Understand warnings and other triggers for action and the safest actions to take in a flood.
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d. Households, institutions and businesses develop plans to manage flood risks, share and practice this with family, friends, employees and neighbours. e. Have an emergency kit. f. Be involved in local emergency planning processes where applicable. 1.5.8 Agriculture and Animal Services Functional Area a. Activate the Agriculture and Animal Services Supporting Plan as required and coordinate the provision of required services which may include: Co-ordinate response for all animals including pets, livestock and wildlife. Supply and delivery of emergency fodder. Emergency water replacement in certain circumstances. Coordinate the management of livestock and farm animals. Advise on dealing with dead and injured farm animals. Financial, welfare and damage assessment assistance to flood affected farmers. Coordinate the establishment of animal shelter facilities for the domestic pets and companion animals of evacuees. 1.5.9 New South Wales Ambulance a. Assist with the evacuation of at risk care facilities (in particular elderly and/or infirm people). b. Deploy ambulance resources to appropriate locations if access is expected to be lost. c. Assist the NSW SES with flood rescue operations as requested. d. Notify the NSW SES Incident Controller if temporarily unable, or no longer able, to fulfil their responsibilities outlined in this plan. 1.5.10 Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (The Bureau) a. Provide Flood Watches for the Hunter River area. b. Provide Flood Warnings, incorporating height-time predictions for:
Gauge Name ARWC Reference The Bureau Number Reference Number
Singleton Gauge 210001 561010
Bulga 210028 061347
c. Provide severe weather warnings when flash flooding is likely to occur.
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1.5.11 Caravan Park Proprietors a. Develop a Caravan Park Flood Plan. b. Install flood depth indicators and road alignment markers within their caravan parks. c. Ensure that owners and occupiers movable dwellings are aware that the caravan park is flood liable by: Providing a written notice to occupiers taking up residence. The notice will indicate that the caravan park is liable to flooding and outline the evacuation and van relocation arrangements. Displaying this notice and the emergency arrangements for the Caravan Park prominently in the park. d. Ensure that owners and occupiers of movable dwellings are aware that if they are expecting to be absent for extended periods, they should: Provide the manager with a key to the dwelling in a sealed envelope. Provide the manager with a contact address and telephone number in case of an emergency. Leave any movable dwelling in a condition allowing it to be relocated in an emergency (i.e. should ensure that the wheels, axles and draw bar of the caravans are not removed, and are maintained in proper working order) (6). e. Ensure that occupiers are informed of Flood Information. At this time, occupiers should be advised to: Listen to a local radio station for updated flood information. Prepare for evacuation and movable dwelling relocation. f. Ensure that owners and occupiers of caravans are aware of what they must do to facilitate evacuation and movable dwelling relocation when flooding occurs. Owners of movable dwellings that are incapable of being relocated should ensure they are securely anchored to their site to avoid being swept away. g. Coordinate the evacuation of people and the relocation of movable dwellings when floods are rising and their return when flood waters have subsided. Movable dwellings will be relocated back to the caravan parks by owners or by vehicles and drivers arranged by the park managers. h. Inform the NSW SES of the progress of evacuation and/or movable dwellings relocation operations and of any need for assistance in the conduct of these tasks.
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1.5.12 Child Care Centres and Preschools a. The NSW SES maintains a list of child care centres and preschools at risk of flooding. b. Child care centres are to be contacted by the NSW SES in the event of possible flooding or isolation. c. When notified the child care centres and preschools should: Liaise with the NSW SES and arrange for the early release of children whose travel arrangements are likely to be disrupted by flooding and/or road closures. Assist with coordinating the evacuation of preschools and child care centres. 1.5.13 Dams, Owners of Prescribed Dams within or upstream of Singleton Council:
Dam Owner Antiene Lease Tailings Liddell Tenements Pty Ltd Ashton Coal Clean Water Dam 1 Ashton Coal Operations Ltd Bayswater Brine Decant AGL Bobs Dump Tailings Coal &Allied Operations Pty Ltd Bulga CHPP Bulga Coal Management Bulga Old Tailings Xstrata – Bulga Coal Camberwell Tailings 2 Integra Coal Operations P/L Glenbawn Water NSW Glennies Creek Water NSW Hunter Valley Operations 6 Tailings TBC Hunter Valley Operations Lake James TBC Lemington Mine Tailings TBC Lemington Mine Tailings Dam No 5 TBC Mt Owen North Void Tailings Xstrata Mt Owen Pty Ltd Mt Owen Rail Loop Tailings Xstrata Mt Owen Pty Ltd Mt Owen Stage 5 Tailings Xstrata Mt Owen Pty Ltd Mt Thorley 24 Ministrip Yancoal Mt Thorley Abbey Green South Tailings Yancoal Mt Thorley Central Ramp Tailings Yancoal Mt Thorley North Out of Pit Water Yancoal Mt Thorley South Out of Pit Water Yancoal Bayswater Plashett AGL
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Dam Owner Possum Skin Glennies Creek Joint Venture Ravensworth Mine In pit Storage Ravensworth Operations Pty Ltd Ravensworth South Tailings Ravensworth Underground Mine Ravensworth Void 3 Tailings AGL Ravensworth Void 4 East Tailings Ashton Coal Operations Ravensworth Void 5 Ash AGL SE Tailings Coal & Allied Operations Pty Ltd United Colliery Tailings 2 United Collieries Pty Ltd Wambo Chitter Dump Water Wambo Coal Pty Ltd Wambo Hunter Pit Tails Wambo Coal Pty Ltd Wambo Tailings Wambo Coal Pty Ltd Warkworth Mine Tailings Yancoal Warkworth North Pit Tailings Yancoal
Note: Several Prescribed Dams in Singleton LGA have changed ownership recently (2017). An updated list will be included in an amended version of this plan. a. Maintain and operate the Dam Failure Warning System for their Dam(s). b. Contribute to the development and implementation of a public education program on flooding within the council area. c. Consult with NSW SES on the determination of dam failure alert levels and notification arrangements when developing Dam Safety Emergency Plans. d. Maintain a Dam Safety Emergency Plan and provide copies to the NSW SES. e. Provide information on the consequences of dam failure to the NSW SES for incorporation into planning and flood intelligence. f. Close and evacuate at risk camping grounds/recreational areas within their managed areas. g. Notify the NSW SES Incident Controller if temporarily unable, or no longer able, to fulfil their responsibilities outlined in this plan. 1.5.14 Energy and Utility Services Functional Area a. When requested by NSW SES: Implement the Energy and Utilities Services Functional Area Supporting Plan. Where required, coordinate energy and utility services emergency management planning, preparation, response and recovery, including the restoration of services following a flood event.
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Coordinate advice to the NSW SES of any need to disconnect electricity, gas, water or wastewater services. Assist the NSW SES to identify infrastructure at risk of flooding for incorporation into planning and intelligence. Identify interdependencies between flooding and utility services due to secondary impacts of flooding and advise the NSW SES. Assist the NSW SES with advisory notices relating to hazards from utility services during flooding. Coordinate with utilities on restoration of services, including advisory notices relating to estimated time for restoration and mandatory safety checks prior to reconnection. Advise the NSW SES and the relevant recovery committee and coordinator of the timetable for restoration. b. Local utility service distribution providers (electricity, gas, water, waste water): Provide advice to the NSW SES Incident Controller of any need to disconnect power/gas/water/waste water supplies or of any timetable for reconnection. Advise the NSW SES of any hazards from utility services during flooding. Advise the public with regard to electrical hazards during flooding and to the availability or otherwise of the electricity supply. Clear or make safe any hazard caused by power lines or electricity distribution equipment. Inspect, test and reconnect customers’ electrical/ gas/ water/waste water installations, when certified safe to do so and as conditions allow. Assist the NSW SES to identify infrastructure at risk of flooding for incorporation into planning and intelligence. 1.5.15 Engineering Services Functional Area a. When requested by NSW SES: Provide engineering advice regarding the integrity of damaged structures. Assist the NSW SES with damage assessment. Acquire and/or provide specialist technical engineering expertise. Assist the NSW SES and Council with the assessment and operation of flood protection levees when requested. Assist with property protection, including the construction or repair of levees. Coordinate the restoration of critical public facilities. b. When requested by the Recovery Coordinator:
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Establish Recovery Centres by the procurement and fit-out of suitable properties. 1.5.16 Environmental Services Functional Area a. When requested by NSW SES: Implement the Environmental Services Functional Area (Enviroplan) Supporting Plan if required. Activate the Hazmat/CBRN Emergency Sub Plan if required. 1.5.17 Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) a. Deployment of FRNSW resources to support NSW SES rests with the FRNSW Zone Command. Primary support tasks include: Assist the NSW SES with the warning and/or evacuation of at risk communities. Assist the NSW SES with the monitoring/reconnaissance of flood prone areas. Assist the NSW SES with the conduct of evacuations. Assist the NSW SES with impact assessment. Assist the NSW SES with the resupply of isolated communities and/or properties. Assist the NSW SES with property protection tasks including sandbagging. Provide resources for pumping flood water out of buildings and from low- lying areas. Assist with clean-up operations, including the hosing out of flood affected properties. Coordinate the deployment of fire resources to communities within Fire and Rescue NSW fire districts if access is expected to be lost in consultation with the NSW SES. Where requested and resources are available, assist the NSW SES with flood rescue operations. Notify the NSW SES Incident Controller if temporarily unable, or no longer able, to fulfil their responsibilities outlined in this plan. 1.5.18 Forestry Corporation of NSW a. Close and evacuate at risk camping grounds in State Forest managed areas. b. Close and reopen Forestry Corporation of NSW roads when affected by flood waters and advise the NSW SES and Singleton Council of their status. c. Facilitate the safe reliable access of emergency resources on Forestry Corporation managed roads when requested.
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d. Assist the NSW SES with identification of road infrastructure at risk of flooding. e. Manage traffic in Forestry Corporation of NSW roads. f. Assist the NSW SES with the communication of warnings and information provision to the public through variable message signs and other appropriate means. g. Notify the NSW SES Incident Controller if temporarily unable, or no longer able, to fulfil their responsibilities outlined in this plan. 1.5.19 Health Services Functional Area a. When requested by NSW SES: Activate the Health Services Supporting Plan (HEALTHPLAN) if required. Ensure that appropriate business continuity plans are developed for essential health infrastructure and are activated during floods. Provide medical support to the NSW SES. Establish health surveillance in affected areas. Assess potential public health risks that either acutely endanger the health of human populations or are thought to have longer term consequences. Provide environmental health advice. Provide public health warnings and advice to affected communities. Provide psychological counselling support to the community and emergency response workers impacted, via NSW Health Mental Health Division. Assist the NSW SES with the warning and coordination of evacuation of public hospitals, private hospitals and residential aged care facilities. Undertake vulnerable person’s assessment for mental health and drug and alcohol dependant persons, dialysis, community health clients and oxygen dependant persons in the community, known to the health service. 1.5.20 Hunter Valley Mines Rescue, Singleton: a. Assist with the delivery of evacuation warnings and the conduct of evacuations. b. Assist with the lifting, removal, transport and storage of furniture from houses and business premises likely to be flooded. c. Provide space for an alternate Operations Centre if the NSW SES Local Headquarters becomes inoperable. 1.5.21 NSW Office of Water a. Collect and maintain flood data including data relating to flood heights, velocities and discharges.
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b. Provide the Bureau of Meteorology and NSW SES real-time or near real- time access to river height gauges and height data for the development of official flood warnings. c. Provide flow rating charts for river height gauges. d. Manage (with technical support from OEH) the approval process under the Water Act 1912 and Water Management Act 2000 for flood control works (earthworks, embankments and levees which can affect the distribution of floodwaters) including: Assessment and approval of flood control works (including flood mitigation works) in rural areas designated under the Acts. Use of floodplain management plans prepared by OEH in rural areas designated under the Acts to assess flood control work approvals. Giving the NSW SES access to relevant studies regarding flooding and studies supporting floodplain management plans prepared by OEH including flood studies, floodplain risk management studies and flood behaviour investigations. 1.5.22 NSW Police Force, Hunter Valley District a. Assist the NSW SES with the delivery of evacuation warnings and evacuation orders. b. Assist the NSW SES with the conduct of evacuation operations. c. Conduct road and traffic control operations in conjunction with council and/or RMS. d. Coordinate the registration of evacuees. e. Secure evacuated areas. f. Where requested and resources are available, assist the NSW SES with flood rescue operations. g. Notify the NSW SES Incident Controller if temporarily unable, or no longer able to, fulfil their responsibilities outlined in this plan. 1.5.23 NSW Rural Fire Service, Hunter Valley Zone (RFS) a. Undertake roles as outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding between the NSW SES and NSW RFS. b. Provide personnel in rural areas and villages to: Inform the NSW SES Incident Controller about flood conditions and response needs in their own communities. Provide emergency services support activities in communities that have become isolated due to flood water where a Brigade is present, as required by the NSW SES. Disseminate flood information. c. Provide personnel and high-clearance vehicles for flood related activities.
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d. Assist the NSW SES with the delivery of evacuation warnings and evacuation orders. e. Assist the NSW SES with the conduct of evacuations. f. Provide equipment for pumping flood water out of buildings and from low-lying areas. g. Assist with the removal of caravans. h. Assist with clean-up operations, including the hosing of flood affected properties. i. Deploy fire resources to appropriate locations if access is expected to be lost in consultation with the NSW SES. j. Notify the NSW SES Incident Controller if temporarily unable, or no longer able, to fulfil their responsibilities outlined in this plan. 1.5.24 NSW Office of Environment and Heritage a. Provide specialist policy, engineering and scientific advice to council and the NSW SES on flood related matters, including assistance with: The identification of flood problems. The preparation of Floodplain Risk Management Plans and associated studies. The implementation of Floodplain Risk Management Plans. This involves floodplain management projects which include flood mitigation works, flood warning, strategic land use planning and the upgrade of evacuation routes (where appropriate). The exercising of Local Flood Plans. b. Provide specialist advice on flood related matters as follows: Provide the NSW SES with access to relevant studies regarding flooding, including Flood Studies and Floodplain Risk Management Studies. Coordinate the collection of post event flood data, in consultation with the NSW SES. Provide data to the Bureau of Meteorology and NSW SES real-time or near real-time access to river height gauges and height data for the development of official flood warnings (through a contract with MHL as described in the Section 3 of this plan). Provide advice to the NSW SES relating to the operations of the Hunter Valley Flood Mitigation Scheme. c. NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Close and reopen NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service roads when affected by flood waters and advise the NSW SES of its status. Facilitate the safe reliable access of emergency resources on NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service managed roads.
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Assist the NSW SES with identification of road infrastructure at risk of flooding. Manage traffic on NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service roads. Assist the NSW SES with the communication of warnings and information provision to the public through variable message signs and other appropriate means. Notify the NSW SES Incident Controller if temporarily unable, or no longer able, to fulfil their responsibilities outlined in this plan. 1.5.25 Public Information Services Functional Area a. When requested by NSW SES: Assist the NSW SES in the establishment and operation of a Joint Media Information Centre. 1.5.26 Roads and Maritime Services a. Close and reopen the New England Highway, the Golden Highway, and Putty Road when affected by flood waters and advise the NSW SES of their status b. Facilitate the safe reliable access of emergency resources on RMS managed roads. c. Assist the NSW SES with identification of road infrastructure at risk of flooding. d. Assess over-water bridge infrastructure affected by floodwater before reopening roads, where RMS owns the bridge infrastructure. e. Assist in traffic management associated with evacuations where necessary. f. Enter state road closure information into the Live Traffic site. g. Assist the NSW SES and Council with the communication of warnings and information provision to the public through variable message signs. h. Cooperate with the Hunter/Central Coast Emergency Management Region Transport Services Functional Area Coordinator. i. Notify the NSW SES Incident Controller if temporarily unable, or no longer able, to fulfil their responsibilities outlined in this plan. 1.5.27 School Administration Offices (Including Catholic Education Office Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, Department of Education & Communities Muswellbrook and Private Schools) A list of schools at risk of flooding or isolation is included in Volume II of the Singleton Local Flood Plan. a. Liaise with the NSW SES and arrange for the early release of students whose travel arrangements are likely to be disrupted by flooding and/or
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road closures (or where required, for students to be moved to a suitable location until normal school closing time). b. Pass information to school bus drivers/companies and/or other schools on expected or actual impacts of flooding. c. Assist with coordinating the evacuation of schools when flooding or isolation is expected to occur. d. Provide space in schools for evacuation centres where necessary. e. Notify the NSW SES Incident Controller if temporarily unable, or no longer able, to fulfil their responsibilities outlined in this plan. 1.5.28 Telecommunication Services Functional Area a. When requested by NSW SES: Coordinate the restoration of public telephone facilities damaged by flooding. Coordinate additional telecommunications support for the NSW SES Incident Control Centre and Emergency Operations Centre as required. Assist the NSW SES to identify infrastructure at risk of flooding for incorporation into planning and intelligence. 1.5.29 The Hunter/Central Coast Emergency Management Region Transport Services Functional Area Coordinator (TSFAC) a. The TSFAC will assist NSW SES, emergency services and other functional areas through the provision of traffic and transport operations as consistent with the roles of Transport organisations, including: The movement of emergency equipment and personnel. The movement of emergency supplies and goods, including water, fuel and food. The evacuation of people and animals. Assistance for medical transport. Transportation of animals and infectious material/dangerous goods. Maintaining and operating a transport route advisory service to the NSW SES, emergency services organisations and other Functional Areas and members of the community. Coordination of the provision of traffic and transport operations as consistent with the roles of Transport organisations. 1.5.30 NSW Train Link and Sydney Trains a. Operate NSW regional and interstate rail services through the Singleton LGA including the management of railway services affected by flood waters and advise the NSW SES regarding the safe operation of rail services.
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b. Assist the NSW SES with the movement or evacuation of people during flood response operations if required. c. Convey flood information and flood warnings to passengers and travellers on NSW trains. d. Cooperate with, and assist the NSW SES Incident Controller in relation to public safety during flood emergencies. e. Cooperate with the Hunter/Central Coast Emergency Management Region Transport Services Functional Area Coordinator. f. Notify the NSW SES Incident Controller if temporarily unable, or no longer able, to fulfil their responsibilities outlined in this plan. 1.5.31 Welfare Services Functional Area a. When requested by NSW SES: Establish and manage evacuation centres, and provide disaster welfare services from recovery centres. Administer the Personal Hardship and Distress component of the NSW Disaster Relief Scheme established to provide financial assistance to people affected by emergencies.
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PART 2 - PREPAREDNESS
2.1 MAINTENANCE OF THIS PLAN
2.1.1 The NSW SES Singleton Local Controller will maintain the currency of this plan by: a. Ensuring that all agencies, organisations and officers mentioned in it are aware of their roles and responsibilities. b. Conducting exercises to test arrangements. c. Reviewing the contents of the plan: After each flood operation. When significant changes in land-use or community characteristics occur. When new information from flood studies become available. When flood control or mitigation works are implemented or altered. When there are changes that alter agreed Plan arrangements. 2.1.2 The Plan is to be reviewed by 2022. 2.1.3 If none of the situations outlined in 2.1.1.c arise, this Plan will be reviewed by December 2022.
2.2 FLOODPLAIN RISK MANAGEMENT
2.2.1 The NSW SES Singleton Local Controller will ensure that: a. NSW SES participates in local Floodplain Risk Management Committee activities when those committees are formed, in accordance with the protocols outlined in the NSW SES Controller’s Guide. b. The NSW SES Hunter Region Headquarters is informed of involvement in floodplain risk management activities. c. The NSW SES consults with the flood prone community about the nature of the flood threat and its management.
2.3 DEVELOPMENT OF FLOOD INTELLIGENCE
2.3.1 Flood intelligence describes flood behaviour and its effects on the community. 2.3.2 The NSW SES maintains a centralised flood intelligence system.
2.4 DEVELOPMENT OF WARNING SYSTEMS
2.4.1 The NSW SES establishes total flood warning systems for areas affected by flooding. This requires:
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a. An identification of the potential clients of flood warning information at different levels of flooding (i.e. who would be affected in floods of differing severities). b. Available information about the estimated impacts of flooding at different heights. c. Identification of required actions and the amounts of time needed to carry them out. d. Appropriate means of disseminating warnings to different clients for different flood levels. 2.4.2 Singleton Council and the Bureau have installed hardware and software to monitor water levels in the Hunter River catchment. Data gathered informs Flood Warning products issued by the Bureau and is provided to the NSW SES.
2.5 COMMUNITY RESILIENCE
2.5.1 The community needs to be prepared for the impact of all hazards (5), including flooding. 2.5.2 As the combat agency, NSW SES has the primary responsibility for the collation, assessment and public dissemination of information relating to flooding (3). To do this, NSW SES will require assistance from other agencies, particularly local government councils, dam owners, and the Bureau in the development and delivery of materials. 2.5.3 The NSW SES Singleton Local Controller, with the assistance of the Singleton Council, the NSW SES Hunter Region Headquarters and NSW SES State Headquarters, is responsible for the collation, assessment and public dissemination of information relating to flooding (3). 2.5.4 A range of tailored strategies to be employed with NSW communities include: a. Dissemination of flood-related brochures and booklets in flood liable areas. b. Talks and displays orientated to at-risk groups, community organisations, businesses and schools. c. Publicity given to this plan and to flood-orientated NSW SES activities through local media outlets, including articles in local newspapers about the flood threat and appropriate responses. d. Community led planning initiatives.
2.6 TRAINING
2.6.1 Throughout this document there are references to functions that must be carried out by the members of the NSW SES Singleton Unit. The NSW SES Singleton Local Controller is responsible for ensuring that the members are: a. Familiar with the contents of this plan.
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b. Trained in the skills necessary to carry out the tasks allocated to the NSW SES.
2.7 RESOURCES
2.7.1 The NSW SES Singleton Local Controller is responsible for maintaining the condition and state of readiness of NSW SES equipment and the NSW SES Singleton Incident Control Centre. 2.7.2 All agencies are responsible for informing the NSW SES if they are unable to fulfil their responsibilities outlined in this plan. For example, if the status of their brigade, unit or station changes.
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PART 3 - RESPONSE
3.1 CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS
3.1.1 The NSW SES is the legislated Combat Agency for floods and is responsible for the control of flood operations. This includes the coordination of other agencies and organisations for flood management tasks. 3.1.2 The Local EMPLAN will operate to provide support as requested by the NSW SES Incident Controller.
3.2 OPERATIONAL MANAGEMENT
3.2.1 NSW SES utilises the Australasian Inter-service Incident Management System (AIIMS), which is based on five principles: a. Flexibility b. Functional management c. Management by objectives d. Unity of command e. Span of control 3.2.2 AIIMS provides for different incident levels based on the complexity of management. 3.2.3 The Local Government Area may be divided into sectors and divisions to manage the flood event (divisions are usually a group of sectors). The NSW SES maintains pre-identified sectors. Where sectorisation occurs it will be outlined in the IAP. 3.2.4 The Singleton LGA may become a division or sector of a larger incident. In this situation the Division or Sector Commander falls under the command of the Operations Officer in the IMT. 3.2.5 Sectors and divisions may be based on floodplain classifications, geographical, physical or functional boundaries. A town, city or suburb may be one sector or split into several sectors and divisions.
3.3 START OF RESPONSE OPERATIONS
3.3.1 This plan is always active to ensure that preparedness actions detailed in this plan are completed. 3.3.2 Response operations will begin: a. On receipt of a Bureau of Meteorology Preliminary Flood Warning, Flood Warning, Flood Watch, Severe Thunderstorm Warning or a Severe Weather Warning for flash flooding. b. On receipt of a dam failure alert.
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c. When other evidence leads to an expectation of flooding within the council area. 3.3.3 Contact with the Bureau of Meteorology to discuss the development of flood warnings will normally be through the NSW SES Hunter Region Headquarters and/or NSW SES State Headquarters. 3.3.4 The following persons and organisations will be advised of the start of, or anticipated start of, response operations by the NSW SES Singleton Local Controller, or Hunter Region Controller, in which case this position will undertake the notification process regardless of the location and severity of the flooding anticipated: a. NSW SES Hunter Region Headquarters. b. NSW SES Singleton Local Controller. c. NSW SES Singleton Unit. d. Singleton Local Emergency Operations Controller (for transmission to the NSW Police Force). e. Singleton Local Emergency Management Officer (for transmission to appropriate council officers and departments). f. Singleton Council Mayor. g. Other agencies listed in this plan will be advised by the Local Emergency Management Officer on the request of the NSW SES Incident Controller and as appropriate to the location and nature of the threat.
3.4 RESPONSE STRATEGIES
3.4.1 The NSW SES State Controller’s Intent outlines the following Strategic Control Priorities: a. Protection and preservation of life b. Issuing of community information and community warnings c. Protection of critical infrastructure and community assets essential to community survival during an emergency incident d. Protection of residential property as a place of primary residence e. Protection of assets and infrastructure that support individual and community financial sustainability and aid in assisting a community to recover from an incident f. Protection of the environment and conservation values considering the cultural, biodiversity and social values of the environment 3.4.2 The NSW SES Incident Controller will select the appropriate response strategies to deal with the expected impact of the flood in each sector and/or community. The impact may vary so a number of different strategies may need to be selected and implemented across the whole operational area. The available
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strategies for each sector and/or community are maintained by the NSW SES. Strategies may include, but are not limited to: a. The pre-deployment and activation of flood rescue assets b. The provision of information and warnings c. Evacuation of at risk areas d. Property protection measures e. Resupply operations Implemented strategies will be outlined in the IAP. 3.4.3 Supporting agency strategies may include: a. Protect the community from incidents involving fire and hazardous materials. b. Maintain the welfare of communities and individuals affected by the impact of a flood. c. Minimise disruption to the community by ensuring supply of essential energy and utility services. d. Ensure coordinated health services are available to and accessible by the flood affected communities. e. Maintain the welfare of animals affected by the impact of a flood.
3.5 OPERATIONS CENTRES
3.5.1 The NSW SES Singleton Operations Centre is located at 9-11 Queen Street, SINGLETON. The alternate operations centre will be located at the Hunter Valley Mines Rescue Station, 6 Lachlan Avenue, SINGLETON HEIGHTS. 3.5.2 In wide spread major Hunter river flooding events the regional EOC may be based at 72 Turton Street METFORD. This facility will be utilised as an alternate Emergency Operations Centre.
3.6 LIAISON
3.6.1 Any agency with responsibilities identified in this plan may be requested by the NSW SES or the LEOCON to provide liaison (including a Liaison Officer where necessary) to the NSW SES Singleton Incident Control Centre, or designated Emergency Operations Centre. 3.6.2 In accordance with NSW EMPLAN, Liaison Officers will: a. Maintain communication with and convey directions/requests to their organisation or functional area. b. Provide advice on the status, resource availability, capabilities, actions and requirements of their organisation or functional area.
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c. Where appropriate, have the authority to deploy the resources of their parent organisation at the request of the NSW SES Incident Controller.
3.7 END OF RESPONSE OPERATIONS
3.7.1 When the immediate danger to life and property has passed the NSW SES Incident Controller will issue an 'All Clear' message signifying that response operations have been completed. The message will be distributed through the same media outlets as earlier evacuation messages. The NSW SES Incident Controller will also advise details of recovery coordination arrangements, arrangements made for clean-up operations prior to evacuees being allowed to return to their homes, and stand-down instructions for agencies not required for recovery operations.
3.8 COLLATING SITUATIONAL INFORMATION
Strategy 3.8.1 The NSW SES maintains and records situational awareness of current impacts and response activities. Actions 3.8.2 The NSW SES Singleton Incident Management Team collates information on the current situation in the Singleton LGA and incorporates in Situation Reports. 3.8.3 Sources of situational information during times of flooding are: a. Agency Situation Reports. Agencies and functional areas provide regular situation reports (SITREPs) to the NSW SES. b. Active Reconnaissance. The NSW SES Incident Controller is responsible for coordinating the reconnaissance of impact areas, recording and communicating observations. Reconnaissance can be performed on the ground and using remote sensing (more commonly aerial). c. The Bureau of Meteorology’s Flood Warning Centre provides river height and rainfall information, data is available on the website http://www.bom.gov.au/nsw/flood/. d. Manly Hydraulics Laboratory (a business unit within NSW Public Works) provides an automated river watch system funded by the Office of Environment and Heritage. This system provides river height and rainfall readings for a multiple gauges in the Paterson, Williams and Hunter River Catchments. Recent data from this system is available on the Manly Hydraulic Laboratory website: http://www.mhl.nsw.gov.au. A history of area floods is also available upon request via the website. e. NSW Office of Water. This office advises flow rates and rates of rise for the Paterson and Williams Rivers. Daily river reports containing information on gauge heights and river flows are available from the website: http://waterinfo.nsw.gov.au/.
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f. Glennies Creek Dam Storage Monitoring System. This system provides information on Glennies Creek Dam. g. NSW SES Hunter Region Headquarters. The Region Headquarters provides information on flooding and its consequences. h. Singleton Council. This office provides information regarding road closures and impacted infrastructure owned by the Council. 3.8.4 During flood operations sources of information on roads closed by flooding include: a. Singleton Council website (www.Singleton.nsw.gov.au) b. Roads and Maritime Services (website and/or telephone service). 3.8.5 Situational information relating to consequences of flooding should be used to verify and validate NSW SES Flood Intelligence records.
3.9 PROVISION OF FLOOD INFORMATION AND WARNINGS
Strategy 3.9.1 The NSW SES Hunter Region Incident Control Centre authorises the issuing of NSW SES Flood Bulletins, NSW SES Livestock and Equipment Warnings, Evacuation Warnings and Evacuation Orders to media outlets and agencies on behalf of all NSW SES Units in the Region. Actions 3.9.2 The NSW SES Incident Controller will ensure that all supporting Operations Centres, the LEOCON and LEMO are regularly briefed on the progress of operations. 3.9.3 Bureau of Meteorology Severe Thunderstorm Warning. These are issued direct to the media and other stakeholders by the Bureau when severe thunderstorms are expected to produce dangerous or damaging conditions, including flash flooding. Severe thunderstorms are usually smaller in scale than events covered by Flood Watches and Severe Weather Warnings. 3.9.4 Bureau of Meteorology Severe Weather Warnings for Flash Flooding. These are issued direct to the media and other stakeholders by the Bureau and provide a warning of the possibility for flash flooding as a result of intense rainfall. These warnings are issued when severe weather is expected to affect land based communities with 6 to 24 hours. Severe Weather Warnings may also include other conditions such as Damaging Winds. 3.9.5 Bureau of Meteorology Flood Watches. Flood Watches are issued by the Bureau to advise the media and other stakeholders of the potential for flooding in a catchment area based on predicted or actual rainfall. Flood Watches will be included in NSW SES Flood Bulletins issued by the NSW SES Hunter Incident Controller. 3.9.6 Bureau of Meteorology Flood Warnings. The NSW SES Hunter Incident Control Centre formulates NSW SES Flood Bulletins in response to Bureau Flood
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Watches and Warnings. These utilise existing flood intelligence as well as reports from the Singleton Incident Control Centre as to the current impacts of flooding in the LGA. 3.9.7 NSW SES Livestock and Equipment Warnings. Where appropriate, following heavy rain or when there are indications of significant creek or river rises (even to levels below Minor Flood heights) NSW SES Hunter Region Headquarters will issue NSW SES Livestock and Equipment Warnings. The NSW SES only has an obligation to issue this advice if there is the potential for flooding to occur as a result of this rain, or creek/river rise. 3.9.8 NSW SES Local Flood Advice. The NSW SES Incident Controller may issue Local Flood Advices for locations not covered by Bureau Flood Warnings. They will be incorporated into NSW SES Flood Bulletins. 3.9.9 NSW SES Flood Bulletins. The NSW SES Incident Controller will regularly issue NSW SES Flood Bulletins which describe information on the estimated impacts of flooding at the predicted heights (using information from Bureau Flood Warnings and NSW SES Local Flood Advice) to NSW SES units, media outlets and agencies on behalf of the NSW SES. 3.9.10 NSW SES Evacuation Warnings and Evacuation Orders. These are usually issued to the media by the NSW SES Incident Controller. 3.9.11 Dam Failure Alerts. Dam failure alerts are issued to NSW SES by the dam owner, in accordance with arrangements in the Dam Safety Emergency Plan (DSEP), the system involves the Dam Owner notifying the NSW SES State Operations Centre, who in turn distribute the Warning to the NSW SES Region Headquarters and NSW SES Unit Headquarters. a. A flow chart illustrating the notification arrangements for potential dam failure is shown in Attachment 2. b. Dam failure alert levels are set in consultation with the NSW SES and are used to trigger appropriate response actions. The conditions that define each of the alert levels are listed in the relevant DSEP. Responses escalate as the alert level migrates from white to amber to red. Table 1 briefly outlines example defining conditions and appropriate NSW SES responses associated with each alert.
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Alert Level Example Defining Condition NSW SES Response NSW SES Warning Product
White May be a structural Implements notification This is a preliminary alert anomaly. flowchart. to assist the NSW SES in its preparation. This is not a public alert. May be increased Check operational readiness. monitoring in response to a heavy rainfall event Amber Failure possible if storage Implements notification NSW SES Evacuation level continues to rise or flowchart. Warning structural anomaly not fixed Warn downstream population at risk to prepare to evacuate Red Failure imminent or Implements notification NSW SES Evacuation occurred flowchart. Order
Evacuation of downstream populations Table 1: Dam Failure Alert Levels Note: Some DSEPs will have alert levels that proceed directly from White to Red. This is the case if adequate time does not exist between the three alert levels to evacuate the downstream population at risk. The decision to omit the Amber Alert level, and the general setting of Alert levels should be undertaken in consultation with the NSW SES.
c. The NSW SES / Dam Owner will disseminate warnings to the population at risk of dam failure (these arrangements are specific to each dam, are negotiated between the Dam Owner and NSW SES, and are documented in the DSEP). 3.9.12 Standard Emergency Warning Signal (SEWS). This signal may be played over radio and television stations to alert communities to Evacuation Warnings, Evacuation Orders, Special Warnings or Dam-Failure Warnings. Approval to use the signal is associated with who approves the warning/order message. 3.9.13 The Public Information and Inquiry Centre (PIIC) (operated by the NSW Police Force) will answer calls from the public regarding registered evacuees and provide authorised emergency information to the public. 3.9.14 The Disaster Welfare Assistance line is a central support and contact point for disaster affected people inquiring about welfare services advice and assistance. This normally operates during business hours, but can be extended when required. 3.9.15 The RMS Transport Information Line will provide advice to callers on the status of roads. The RMS website also lists road closure information. 3.9.16 Singleton Council will provide information on the status of roads. 3.9.17 Collation and dissemination of road information is actioned as follows:
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a. Road status reports will only be included in NSW SES Situation Reports, Flood Bulletins and media products if they have significant impact on the community. All other road closure information will be managed by Singleton Council. b. NSW SES personnel may provide road status information to Singleton Council if they are in a position to do so.
3.10 AIRCRAFT MANAGEMENT
3.10.1 Aircraft can be used for a variety of purposes during flood operations including evacuation, rescue, resupply, reconnaissance and emergency travel. 3.10.2 Air support operations will be conducted under the control of the NSW SES Incident Controller. 3.10.3 NSW SES maintains the following information for the Singleton Council area: a. Locations of suitable helicopter landing points. b. Intelligence on when access to these locations is expected to be lost.
3.11 ASSISTANCE FOR ANIMALS
3.11.1 Matters relating to the welfare of livestock, companion animals and wildlife are to be referred to Agriculture and Animal Services Functional Area. 3.11.2 Requests for emergency supply and/or delivery of fodder to stranded livestock, or for livestock rescue, are to be referred to Agriculture and Animal Services Functional Area. 3.11.3 Requests for domestic animal rescue should be referred to the NSW SES.
3.12 COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS
3.12.1 The primary means of communications between fixed locations is by telephone, email and facsimile. 3.12.2 The primary means of communication to and between deployed NSW SES resources is by Government Radio Network (GRN). a. The NSW SES Hunter Region maintains a portable repeater that may be deployed to areas permanently or temporarily not serviced by the GRN. This asset can be utilised for both tactical and strategic communications. 3.12.3 All liaison officers will provide their own communication links back to their parent agencies. 3.12.4 All other organisations will provide communications as necessary to their deployed field teams. a. In the event of a communications system failure, NSW SES will work with all agencies and the Telecommunications Functional Area Coordinator to provide a solution.
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3.12.5 Back-up communications are provided as follows: a. Singleton Rural Fire Service GRN. b. Singleton Council vehicle radios
3.13 PRELIMINARY DEPLOYMENTS
3.13.1 When flooding is expected to be severe enough to cut road access to towns and/or rural communities, the NSW SES Incident Controller will ensure that resources are in place for the distribution of essential household food and items and medical supplies to the areas that could become isolated. 3.13.2 When access between locations is expected to be cut, the NSW SES Incident Controller will advise appropriate agencies so that resources (including sandbags, firefighting appliances, ambulances, etc.) are deployed to ensure that operational capability is maintained.
3.14 ROAD AND TRAFFIC CONTROL
3.14.1 A number of roads within the council area are affected by flooding. 3.14.2 Singleton Council closes and re-opens its own roads. 3.14.3 The NSW Police Force has the authority to close and re-open roads but will normally only do so (if the Council or the RMS have not already acted) if public safety requires such action. 3.14.4 When resources permit, the NSW SES assists Council, RMS or the Police by erecting road closure signs and barriers. 3.14.5 In flood events, the NSW SES Incident Controller may direct the imposition of traffic control measures. The entry into flood affected areas will be controlled in accordance with the provisions of the State Emergency Service Act, 1989 (Part 5, Sections 19, 20, 21 and 22) and the State Emergency Rescue Management Act, 1989 (Part 4, Sections 60KA, 60L and 61). 3.14.6 RMS and Council Officers closing or re-opening roads or bridges affected by flooding are to advise the NSW SES Incident Controller. 3.14.7 Only the road owner can authorise the change of the road status from ‘closed’ to ‘open.’
3.15 STRANDED TRAVELLERS
3.15.1 Flood waters can strand travellers. Travellers seeking assistance will be referred to the Welfare Services Functional Area for the arrangement of emergency accommodation.
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3.16 MANAGING PROPERTY PROTECTION OPERATIONS
Strategy 3.16.1 Protect the property of residents and businesses at risk of flood damage. Actions 3.16.2 The NSW SES is the responsible agency for the coordination of operations to protect property. 3.16.3 Property may be protected from floods by: a. Lifting or moving of household furniture. b. Lifting or moving commercial stock and equipment. c. Sandbagging to minimise entry of water into buildings. 3.16.4 The NSW SES Singleton Unit maintains a small stock of sandbags, and back-up supplies are available through the NSW SES Hunter Region Headquarters. Alternatives may be sourced if required.
3.17 MANAGING FLOOD RESCUE OPERATIONS
Strategy 3.17.1 Rescue of people and domestic animals from floods. Actions 3.17.2 The NSW SES Incident Controller controls flood rescue in Singleton LGA during a flood emergency. 3.17.3 Flood rescues, may be carried out by accredited personnel in accordance with appropriate standards. 3.17.4 Additional flood boats and crews can be requested through the NSW SES Hunter Region Headquarters. 3.17.5 There may be some residual population which did not evacuate during the early stages of flooding and which require rescue.
3.18 MANAGING EVACUATION OPERATIONS
Strategy 3.18.1 When there is a risk to public safety, evacuation is the primary strategy. Circumstances may include: a. Evacuation of people when their homes or businesses are likely to flood. b. Evacuation of people who are unprepared or unable to live in isolated circumstances, due to flood water closing access. c. Evacuation of people where essential energy and utility services are likely to fail, have failed or where buildings have been made uninhabitable.
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Actions 3.18.2 The evacuation operation will have the following stages: a. Decision to evacuate. b. Mobilisation (mobilisation may begin prior to the decision to evacuate). c. Evacuation Warning delivery. d. Evacuation Order delivery. e. Withdrawal. f. Shelter. g. Return. 3.18.3 Where there is an immediate threat to life, the NSW SES can evacuate residents without an Evacuation Warning or Order. During floods, evacuations will be controlled by the NSW SES Incident Controller. 3.18.4 During floods evacuations will be controlled by the NSW SES. Small-scale evacuations will be controlled by the NSW SES Singleton Local Incident Controller. Should the scale of evacuation operations be beyond the capabilities of local resources control may be escalated to the NSW SES Hunter Region Incident Controller
Decision to evacuate 3.18.5 The decision to evacuate rests with the NSW SES Incident Controller who exercises his/her authority in accordance with Section 22(1) of the State Emergency Service Act 1989. However, the decision to evacuate will usually be made after consultation with the Local Emergency Operations Controller. 3.18.6 The decision to evacuate will usually be made with reference to NSW SES flood intelligence or other expert advice and in accordance with the NSW SES evacuation policies. 3.18.7 In events that require large scale evacuations, the decision to evacuate may be made in consultation with the NSW SES State Operation Centre and/or State Duty Operations Controller (SDOC). Some people will make their own decision to evacuate earlier and move to alternate accommodation, using their own transport. This is referred to as self-managed evacuation (8).
Mobilisation 3.18.8 The NSW SES Incident Controller may request the following personnel for doorknock teams for designated Sectors/locations: a. NSW SES Singleton Unit members. b. NSW RFS members. c. Local Police Force Officers. d. Fire & Rescue NSW personnel.
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3.18.9 The NSW SES Incident Controller will coordinate requests for any additional resources. 3.18.10 The NSW SES Incident Controller will request the EOC to provide Council personnel to assist with traffic coordination within Sector(s)/Community. 3.18.11 The NSW SES Incident Controller will request the required number of buses for Sectors via the Transport Services Functional Area if they are required. 3.18.12 The NSW SES Singleton Local Incident Controller will arrange liaison officers for Sector Command Centres
Delivery of Evacuation Warnings and Evacuation Orders 3.18.13 The NSW SES will advise the community of the requirements to evacuate. The NSW SES will issue an Evacuation Warning when the intent of an NSW SES Incident Controller is to warn the community of the need to prepare for a possible evacuation. 3.18.14 The NSW SES will issue an Evacuation Order when the intent of the NSW SES Incident Controller is to instruct a community to immediately evacuate in response to an imminent threat. 3.18.15 The NSW SES Incident Controller will distribute Evacuation Warnings and Evacuation Orders to: a. Singleton Local Emergency Operations Centre. b. Singleton Council. c. NSW SES State Operations Centre. d. NSW Police Hunter Valley District. e. Hunter Valley Rural Fire Service Control Centre f. Fire and Rescue NSW Regional West 2 Zone g. Sector/Division Command Centres (where established) h. Relevant media outlets and agencies. i. Other local agencies and specified individuals. 3.18.16 Evacuation Warnings and Evacuation Orders may be delivered through: a. Radio and television stations. b. Doorknocking by emergency service personnel. c. Public address systems (fixed or mobile). d. Telephony-based systems (including Emergency Alert). e. Social Media networks 3.18.17 The Standard Emergency Warning Signal (SEWS) may be used to precede all Evacuation Orders broadcast on Radio Stations.
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3.18.18 The NSW SES will distribute Evacuation Orders via Emergency Service personnel in doorknock teams to areas under threat of inundation. Doorknock teams will work at the direction of the Incident Controller. 3.18.19 Field teams conducting doorknocks will record and report back the following information to the NSW SES Incident Controller a. Addresses and locations of houses doorknocked and/or evacuated. b. The number of occupants. c. Details of support required (such as transport, medical evacuation, assistance to secure house and/or property and raise or move belongings). d. Details of residents who refuse to comply with the Evacuation Order. 3.18.20 Refusal to evacuate. Field teams should not spend excess time dealing with people who are reluctant or refuse to comply with any Evacuation Order. These cases are to be referred to the NSW Police Force and the NSW SES Incident Controller.
Withdrawal 3.18.21 Evacuations will generally be carried out in stages starting from the lowest areas, low flood islands and low trapped perimeters, and progressively to higher areas. 3.18.22 The preferred method of evacuation is via road using private transport. This may be supplemented by buses where required. Other means of evacuation may also be used if available and as necessary (e.g. by foot, rail, air). 3.18.23 The NSW Police Force will coordinate the registration of evacuees who present to an assembly area, regardless of whether they will be utilising designated evacuation centres or not. 3.18.24 Evacuees who require emergency accommodation or disaster welfare assistance will be directed to designated Evacuation Centres. It is not possible to determine in advance how many evacuees will require these services. 3.18.25 Evacuees will: a. Move under local traffic arrangements from the relevant Sectors/Community. b. Continue along the suburban/regional/rural road network to allocated Evacuation Centres. 3.18.26 Health Services. The Health Services Functional Area will coordinate the evacuation of hospitals, health centres and aged care facilities (including nursing homes). 3.18.27 Schools. School administration offices (Department of Education, Catholic Education Office and Private Schools) will coordinate the evacuation of schools if not already closed.
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3.18.28 If there is sufficient time between the start of response operations and the evacuation of communities, the NSW SES Incident Controller will discuss the temporary closure of appropriate schools with the Regional Director, Hunter- Central Coast Region, Department of Education and the Regional Director, Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle. This will enable pupils to stay at home or be returned home so they can be evacuated (if required) with their families. 3.18.29 Note that in the Singleton LGA, school principals may close some schools affected by flooding in the early stages of flooding. 3.18.30 Caravan Parks. When an evacuation order is given occupiers of non-movable dwellings should: a. Secure their dwellings by tying them down to prevent flotation. b. Isolate power to their dwelling. c. Collect personal papers, medicines, and a change of clothing, toiletries and bedclothes. d. Lift the other contents in any remaining dwellings as high as possible. e. Move to friends, relatives or a designated evacuation centre if they have their own transport, or move to the caravan office to await transport. f. If undertaking self-managed evacuation, register their movements with the caravan park management upon leaving the park. 3.18.31 Where possible, dwellings that can be moved will be relocated by their owners. Park managers will arrange for the relocation of movable dwellings as required. Council and NSW SES personnel may assist if required. 3.18.32 Caravan park managers will ensure that their caravan park is capable of being evacuated in a timely and safe manner. 3.18.33 Advise the NSW SES Incident Controller of: a. The number of people requiring transport. b. Details of any medical evacuations required. c. Whether additional assistance is required to effect the evacuation. 3.18.34 Check that all residents and visitors are accounted for. 3.18.35 Inform the NSW SES Incident Controller when the evacuation of the caravan park has been completed. 3.18.36 Provide the NSW SES Incident Controller with a register of people that have been evacuated. 3.18.37 Assistance Animals, Pets and Companion Animals of Evacuees: Assistance animals (guide dogs, hearing assistance animals, etc.) will remain in the care of their owners throughout the evacuation. This includes transport and access into evacuation centres etc. 3.18.38 Where possible owners should take their companion animals with them when they are asked to evacuate. Due to safety restrictions, it may not be possible to
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allow companion animals to accompany their owners when being transported via aircraft or flood rescue boat. In such circumstances Agriculture and Animal Services will coordinate separate arrangements for evacuation and care of companion animals. 3.18.39 Transport and storage: Transport and storage of furniture from flood threatened properties will be arranged as time and resources permit. 3.18.40 Security: The NSW Police Force will coordinate the provision of overall security for evacuated areas. 3.18.41 The NSW SES Sector Commander is to provide the following reports to the NSW SES Incident Controller: a. Advice of commencement of the evacuation of each Sector. b. Progress reports (by Sectors) during evacuations. c. Advice of completion of the evacuation of each Sector.
Shelter 3.18.42 Evacuation Centres: Evacuees will be advised to go to friends or relatives, or else the nearest accessible Evacuation Centre. An Evacuation Centre will be established at the direction of the NSW SES Incident Controller and managed by Welfare Services. 3.18.43 Assembly areas: An assembly area is a designated location used for the assembly of emergency-affected persons before they move to temporary accommodation or a nominated evacuation centre. As such these areas do not provide welfare assistance nor are they used for long term sheltering or provision of meals. An assembly area may also be a prearranged, strategically placed area, where support response personnel, vehicles and other equipment can be held in readiness for use during an emergency. 3.18.44 The following locations are suitable for use as flood evacuation centres: a. Singleton Heights Public School, corner Dorsman Drive and Blaxland Avenue. b. Singleton Sports Centre, corner Dorsman Drive and Blaxland Avenue. c. Singleton Heights Returned Services Club (Alroy), Dorsman Drive. d. Whittingham Hall, Range Road. e. Broke Community Hall, Cnr Adair and Howe Street, Broke. f. Bulga Community Hall. g. Jerrys Plains Public School, Doyle Street, Jerrys Plains. h. Milbrodale Public School, Putty Road, Milbrodale 3.18.45 Registration: The NSW Police Force will facilitate Disaster Victim Registration for people evacuated to designated evacuation centres.
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3.18.46 Animal Shelter: Facilities to hold and care for companion animals of evacuees will be coordinated by Agriculture and Animal Services if required. If required, Agriculture and Animal Services will also coordinate refuge areas for livestock (e.g. horses) where feasible. Not all Evacuation Centres/Assembly Areas are suitable for large animals such as horses.
Return 3.18.47 The NSW SES Incident Controller will advise when return to evacuated areas is safe after flood waters have receded and reliable access is available. 3.18.48 The NSW SES Incident Controller will determine when it is safe for evacuees to return to their homes in consultation with: a. The Recovery Coordinating Committee (if established) b. Welfare Services Functional Area Coordinator (welfare of evacuees) c. Engineering Services Functional Area Co-ordinator (safety of buildings, structural integrity of levees/dams) d. Health Service Functional Area Coordinator (public health) e. Transport Services Functional Areas Coordinator (arrangement of transport) f. The Singleton LEOCON g. The Singleton Council h. NSW SES Operations Commander i. Other appropriate agencies/functional areas as required (mitigation and advice regarding identified risks resulting from the flood event). 3.18.49 Once it is considered safe to do so, the NSW SES Incident Controller will authorise the return of evacuees. 3.18.50 The return will be controlled by the NSW SES Incident Controller and may be conducted, at their request, by the Recovery Coordinator.
3.19 MANAGING RESUPPLY OPERATIONS
3.19.1 The NSW SES is responsible for the coordination of the resupply of isolated communities and properties. 3.19.2 If isolation is expected to occur, residents should be encouraged to consider their needs and suitability for an unknown period of isolation. 3.19.3 If properties/communities are going to remain in locations expected to become isolated, households/retailers should be encouraged to stock up on essential supplies. 3.19.4 Where practicable, once supplies are delivered to the NSW SES designated loading point, the NSW SES Incident Controller will arrange for the delivery of essential household food and items, fuels or urgent medical supplies required by an isolated property or community.
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3.19.5 All reasonable effects will be made to deliver supplies, however where necessary the NSW SES will prioritise the delivery of items.
Resupply of Isolated Properties Strategy 3.19.6 Ensure supplies are maintained to properties by coordinating the resupply of properties which have become isolated as a consequence of flooding. Actions 3.19.7 The resupply of isolated properties is a common requirement during floods and coordination can be difficult because requests can emanate from a variety of sources. Isolated properties may call their suppliers direct, place their orders through their own social networks or contact the NSW SES. 3.19.8 The principles to be applied when planning for the resupply of isolated properties are: a. The NSW SES will coordinate resupply and establish a schedule. b. Some isolated households will not have the ability to purchase essential household items due to financial hardship. If an isolated household seeks resupply from the NSW SES and claims to be, or is considered to be, in dire circumstances, he/she is to be referred to Welfare Services for assessment of eligibility. Where financial eligibility criteria are met, Welfare Services will assist with the purchase of essential household items. Welfare Services will deliver the essential household items to the NSW SES designated loading point for transport. c. Local suppliers will liaise with the NSW SES regarding delivery of resupply items to the designated loading point. d. Local suppliers are responsible for packaging resupply items for delivery. 3.19.9 A flowchart illustrating the Resupply process is shown in Attachment 1. Please note that the flowchart outlines the resupply process but does not encompass all potential situations and/or outcomes.
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PART 4 - RECOVERY
4.1 RECOVERY COORDINATION AT THE LOCAL LEVEL
4.1.1 The NSW SES Incident Controller will ensure that planning for long-term recovery operations begins at the earliest opportunity, initially through briefing the Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC). As soon as possible the LEMC will meet to discuss recovery implications including the need for a Local Recovery Committee. The LEMC will consider any impact assessment in determining the need for recovery arrangements. This is conveyed in the first instance to the State Emergency Operations Controller (SEOCON) for confirmation with the State Emergency Recovery Controller (SERCON). 4.1.2 Once the need for recovery has been identified, the SERCON, in consultation with the SEOCON, may recommend the appointment of a Local Recovery Coordinator and nominate an appropriate candidate to the Minister for Emergency Services. 4.1.3 The SERCON may send a representative to the LEMC and subsequent recovery meetings to provide expert recovery advice and guidance. 4.1.4 The NSW SES Singleton Local Controller and Local Emergency Operations Controller (LEOCON) attend recovery meetings to provide an overview of the emergency response operation. 4.1.5 The NSW SES Region Controller, the Regional Emergency Management Officer and appropriate Regional Functional Area Coordinators will be invited to the initial local meeting and to subsequent meetings as required. 4.1.6 The Recovery Committee will: a. Develop and maintain a Recovery Action Plan with an agreed exit strategy. b. Monitor and coordinate the activities of agencies with responsibility for the delivery of services during recovery. c. Ensure that relevant stakeholders, especially the communities affected, are involved in the development and implementation of recovery objectives and strategies and are informed of progress made. d. Provide the SERCON with an end of recovery report. e. Ensure the recovery is in line with the National Principles of Disaster Recovery and the NSW tenets.
4.2 RECOVERY COORDINATION AT THE REGION AND STATE LEVEL
4.2.1 In the event that an emergency affects several local areas, a Region Emergency Management Committee (REMC) will meet to discuss recovery implications including the need for a Region Recovery Committee. This is conveyed in the first instance to the SEOCON for confirmation with the SERCON.
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4.2.2 In the event of an emergency which affects multiple regions, or is of state or national consequence, or where complex, long term recovery and reconstruction is required, it may be necessary to establish a State Recovery Committee and the appointment of a State Recovery Coordinator.
4.3 ARRANGEMENTS FOR DEBRIEFS / AFTER ACTION REVIEWS
4.3.1 As soon as possible after flooding has abated, the NSW SES Singleton Local Controller will advise participating organisations of details of response operation after action review arrangements. 4.3.2 The NSW SES Singleton Local Controller will ensure that adequate arrangements are in place to record details of the After Action Review and each item requiring further action is delegated to an organisation or individual to implement. 4.3.3 Follow-up to ensure the satisfactory completion of these actions will be undertaken by the Singleton Local Emergency Management Committee.
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ATTACHMENT 1 - RESUPPLY FLOWCHART
Please Note: The chart outlines the resupply process, but does not encompass all potential situations and outcomes.
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ATTACHMENT 2 - DAM FAILURE ALERT NOTIFICATION ARRANGEMENTS FLOWCHART
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ATTACHMENT 3 - SINGLETON LGA MAP
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LIST OF REFERENCES
1. Emergency Management Australia. Managing the floodplain: a guide to best practice in flood risk management in Australia. s.l. : Attorney-General's Department, 2013.
2. Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources. Floodplain Development Manual. 2005.
3. Ministry for Police and Emergency Services (MPES). New South Wales State Emergency Management Plan (EMPLAN). 2012.
4. NSW Government. Local Government Act 1993 No 30. 1993.
5. Emergency Management Australia. Flood Warning: Australian Emergency Manuals Series Manual 21. s.l. : Attorney-General's Department, 2009.
6. NSW Government. Manufactured Home Estates, Caravan Parks, Camping Grounds and Moveable Dwellings Regulation. 2005.
7. SEMC Evacuations Working Group. Evacuation Management Guidelines. 2014.
8. Emergency Management Australia. Evacuation Planning: Australian Emergency Management Handbook Series Handbook 4. s.l. : Attorney-General's Department, 2013.
9. NSW SES. Incident Management Policy. 2015.
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HAZARD AND RISK IN SINGLETON LGA
Volume 2 of the Singleton LGA Local Flood Plan
Last Update: February 2018 Singleton LGA Local Flood Plan
AUTHORISATION
Hazard and Risk in Singleton LGA has been prepared by the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) as part of a comprehensive planning process. The information contained herein has been compiled from the latest available technical studies and historical records.
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CONTENTS
VERSION LIST ...... 4
AMENDMENT LIST ...... 4
1 THE FLOOD THREAT ...... 5 Overview ...... 5 Landforms and River Systems ...... 5 Storage Dams ...... 6 Weather Systems and Flooding ...... 8 Characteristics of Flooding ...... 9 Flood History ...... 11 Flood Mitigation Systems ...... 12 Extreme Flooding ...... 12
2 EFFECTS ON THE COMMUNITY ...... 13 Community Profile ...... 13 SPECIFIC RISK AREAS - FLOOD ...... 14 Singleton (Including Combo and Redbournberry) ...... 14 Dunolly ...... 19 Glenridding ...... 21 Bulga ...... 23 Broke ...... 24 Road Closures ...... 26 Summary of isolated communities and properties ...... 27
ANNEX 1: HUNTER RIVER BASIN SCHEMATICS ...... 28
ANNEX 2: FACILITIES AT RISK OF FLOODING AND/OR ISOLATION ...... 30
MAP 1: HUNTER RIVER BASIN MAP ...... 33
MAP 2: SINGLETON LGA MAP ...... 34
MAP 3: SINGLETON/COMBO TOWN MAP ...... 35
MAP 4: DUNOLLY TOWN MAP ...... 36
MAP 5: GLENRIDDING TOWN MAP ...... 37
MAP 6: BULGA TOWN MAP ...... 38
MAP 7: BROKE TOWN MAP...... 39
LIST OF REFERENCES ...... 40
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Prescribed Dams in Singleton LGA; summary of information about each storage...... 6 Table 2: Prescribed Dams in Singleton LGA; summary of information about each storage...... 7 Table 3: Indicative Flow Travel Time for the Hunter River ...... 10 Table 4: Indicative Flow Travel Time for the Wollombi Brook ...... 10 Table 5: Flood History of Major Floods at the Singleton Gauge (210001) ...... 12 Table 6: Census of Housing and Population data (2011) ...... 13 Table 7: Levees in Singleton; summary of information...... 16 Table 8: Roads liable to flooding in Singleton LGA...... 26 Table 9: Potential Periods of Isolation for communities in Singleton LGA during a 1% AEP Flood (14.47m on Singleton gauge) ...... 27
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VERSION LIST
The following table lists all previously approved versions of this Volume.
Description Date
Singleton Local Flood Plan November 2006
AMENDMENT LIST
Suggestions for amendments to this Volume should be forwarded to:
The Singleton Local Controller NSW State Emergency Service 9-11 Queen Street SINGLETON NSW 2330 Amendments promulgated in the amendments list below have been entered in this Volume.
Amendment Description Updated by Date Number
None
Document Issue: Version 3-02052016
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1 THE FLOOD THREAT
OVERVIEW
a. The Singleton LGA is located in the Hunter Region of NSW about 80 km northwest of Newcastle. Singleton township is the major population centre in the LGA with rural communities at Broke to the south and Jerrys Plains and Bulga to the west.
b. Singleton is located on the New England Highway (A15) which is a significant transport route from Newcastle north to Queensland on the western side of the Great Dividing Range. The main transport from Newcastle to Singleton is the Hunter Expressway which joins the New England Highway at Branxton, approximately 20km south east of Singleton. The Golden Highway (B84) joins the Putty Road about 10km south of Singleton township.
c. Singleton LGA adjoins Cessnock LGA to the south and east, Upper Hunter LGA to the north and Maitland LGA to the east. Singleton LGA is located in the Hunter River Basin which is shown on Map 1 – Hunter River Basin.
LANDFORMS AND RIVER SYSTEMS
a. The Hunter River is the second largest coastal river in New South Wales, draining a catchment area of 21,000 sq. km the bulk of which (16000 sq. km) lies upstream of Singleton. The catchment is roughly circular in shape and is bounded by the Barrington Tops, Mt Royal and Liverpool Ranges in the north, the Great Dividing Range in the west and south-west and the Hunter Range in the south. The north-eastern and southern sections of the catchment are rugged and largely wooded, while the western portion is made up of comparatively open country. South-east of Scone the main river widens, and there are extensive floodplains within the Singleton LGA.
b. The Hunter River has several major tributaries which join it upstream of the Singleton LGA. These include the Isis, Pages and Goulburn Rivers and their tributaries, as well as the Dart and Rouchel Brooks and the Kingdon Ponds. The Hunter River itself rises in Barrington Tops at an altitude of about 1500 metres, and flows for about 220 kilometres in a south-westerly direction to Denman below where it is joined by the Goulburn River. From there the river flows eastwards and through the Singleton LGA.
c. Within the Council area the Hunter is joined by the Bowmans, Glennies, Rix, First, Stanhope and Lambs Valley Creeks, and the West and Glendon Brooks, all of which flow in from the north, and by Wollombi Brook and Minimbah, Jump Up and Black Creeks from the south. By far the most significant of these in terms of flooding is Wollombi Brook (also known locally as the Cockfighter Creek).
d. Except for the Wollombi Brook there is only limited floodplain development along these tributaries, except on their lower reaches, but the Hunter River has extensive
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floodplains from the point at which it enters the shire above Jerrys Plains, to the point at which it leaves it near Dalwood. In places, the floodplain is more than five kilometres in width.
e. The Hunter River is shown on Map 1 – Hunter River Basin.
STORAGE DAMS
a. Storage Dam locations are shown on Map 2 - Singleton LGA Map.
b. Of the 65 prescribed dams in the Hunter River catchment, 35 are located within the Singleton LGA. Many of these dams are contained in open cut coal mining operations which dominate the areas to the west of Singleton and do not pose any direct flood threat to life.
c. Notable prescribed dams include and are shown in Table 2:
i. Glenbawn Dam
ii. Glennies Creek
iii. Plashett Dam
d. Other prescribed dams located in the Singleton LGA are shown Table 1:
Table 1: Prescribed Dams in Singleton LGA; summary of information about each storage.
Prescribed Dam Name
Antiene Lease Tailings Mount Owen North Void Ravensworth Void 5 Tailings Ashton Coal Clean Water Mount Owen Rail Loop Riverview Void In-pit Water Dam 1 Tailings Storage Bayswater Brine Decant Mt Thorley Abbey Green SE Tailings Storage South TSF Bulga Old Tailings Mt Thorley Central Ramp United Colliery Tailings Dam Tailings 2 Camberwell Tailings 2 Mt Thorley South Out Of Pit Wambo Chitter Dump Water Water Dam Cumnock Tailings Storage Possum Skin Dam Wambo Hunter Pit Tails Dam Facility Cumnock Tailings Storage Ravensworth Inpit Storage Wambo South Water Facility Hunter Valley Operations Ravensworth South Tailings Wambo Tailings Lake James Lemington Mine Tailings Ravensworth Void 3 Warkworth Mine Tailings Montose Ravensworth Void 4 East Warkworth North Pit Tailings Tailings
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Table 2: Prescribed Dams in Singleton LGA; summary of information about each storage.
Glenbawn Dam (2)
Owner / Water NSW Operator Description of Un-gated earth and rock fill clay core dam with concrete chute Dam spillway and fuse plug. Includes privately owned hydroelectric power station. Dam capacity is 870 000 ML with the top 120 000 ML reserved for flood mitigation (3). Location On the Hunter River, 14km east of Scone. Communities Aberdeen, Muswellbrook, Denman, Jerrys Plains, Singleton, Maitland, Downstream Raymond Terrace, Hexham and Newcastle Monitoring A water level sensor at the dam measures depth above spillway crest System and triggers the transmission of alarms to State Water to action. Monitoring also includes piezometers and seepage monitoring. Warning Early Warning Network (EWN) voluntary register is in place. System Other Peak flood arrival times in Singleton are as follows: Sunny Day Failure: 6h50min 1% AEP flood: 16.25hrs
Glennies Creek Dam (2)
Owner / Water NSW Operator Description of Curved earth and rock fill embankment with a concrete slab on the Dam upstream face. Spillway is uncontrolled rock cut. Capacity is 283 000 ML. Location On Glennies Creek, 39km upstream of the junction with the Hunter River and 25km north of Singleton. Communities Jerrys Plains, Singleton, Greta, Maitland, Raymond Terrace, Hexham Downstream and Newcastle. Approximately 9,000 people would be impacted by floodwaters in Singleton. Monitoring A water level sensor at the dam measures depth above spillway crest System and triggers the transmission of alarms to State Water to action. Warning Monitoring of seepage is also regularly undertaken System Early Warning Network (EWN) voluntary register in place Other Approximate travel time of a Sunny Day failure to Singleton is 3h15min Backup flooding would occur on all tributaries in the LGA including Wollombi Brook.
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Plashett Dam (4)
Owner / AGL Macquarie Pty Ltd Operator Description of 46m high, zoned earth-fill dam with a 800m crest length. Storage Dam capacity at full supply level is 65000 ML (5). Spillway is a broad crested weir on an uncontrolled concrete lined chute. Location Located on Saltwater Creek approximately 3kms upstream of its confluence with the Hunter River at Jerry’s Plains (approximately 60km upstream of Singleton). The dam provides backup water storage for Bayswater and Liddell Power Stations. Communities Jerry’s Plains, Singleton, Maitland, Raymond Terrace, Hexham and Downstream Newcastle Approximately 9,000 people would be impacted by floodwaters in Singleton. Monitoring Visual Inspection System Warning None identified. System Other Communications with the dam are generally by telephone otherwise by radio from Bayswater Power Station. In the event of dam failure, flood wave would reach Jerrys Plains in around 24 minutes and Singleton in about 10 hours. (4) The Dam is able to safely pass extreme floods, and failure of the saddle wall which is 1m lower than the main wall would only occur in an estimated 1:100,000yr (0.001% AEP) event.
WEATHER SYSTEMS AND FLOODING
a. Four major rainfall mechanisms are responsible for most of the flooding in the Singleton LGA (5).
i. Inland depressions forming in the tropics over northern Australia and moving in a southerly or south-easterly direction. Depositing heavy rainfall as they move, these systems usually cause flooding to occur in the western and northern parts of the catchment. Floods of this origin occur in the late summer and autumn months.
ii. Ex-tropical cyclones originating in the Coral Sea and moving southwards along the Queensland and New South Wales coasts. Occasionally these systems move far enough south to affect the Lower Hunter Valley, with heavy rains occurring over the catchment of the Wollombi Brook when the low pressure cell becomes stationary off or over the coastline. Flooding of this origin is rare and occurs only in the summer and early autumn months.
iii. East Coast low-pressure systems can also produce flooding when deep depressions off the coast are accompanied by blocking anti-cyclones over inland
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New South Wales. In these circumstances a cool, moist, south-easterly airstream results in heavy rain along the coast and flooding along the Wollombi Brook. Rainfall volumes fall off sharply towards the west. Such floods tend to occur in the cooler months.
iv. Sequences of fronts crossing the Hunter River valley from west to east, usually in the cooler months. When several fronts cross in quick succession, the cumulative effect of heavy rains can lead to flooding.
b. Some 90 per cent of the floods recorded at Singleton (including all of the severe ones) have occurred between the months of January and August. Depending on the weather system which is creating the flooding, different rivers and creeks will be active and flooding within the shire will result from different origins.
CHARACTERISTICS OF FLOODING
a. Flooding on the majority of tributaries along the Hunter River within the Singleton Shire is flash flooding which lasts for only a few hours. However, back-up flow from the Hunter up the major tributaries (Wollombi Brook, First Creek and Glendon Brook) may cause flooding along the lower reaches of these streams for longer periods.
b. The Hunter River is approximately 10m in depth at Singleton, with the water level generally less than 1m in depth. Therefore a significant flood is required to fill the channel and overtop the banks. Initially very minor flooding may be experienced from around 9.77m on the Singleton Gauge (210001) where minor inundation can be expected on terraces adjacent either end of the pilot bypass channel (5).
c. The low lying area of Glenridding (Doughboy Hollow, about 8 km south of the railway bridge) is one of the first areas to become inundated from flow overtopping the river banks and cutting the Putty Road at 12.0m on the Singleton Gauge (210001).
d. Floodwater then flows north through rail culverts and adjacent (outside) the town levee to James Cooke Park meeting with flood fringe areas of Dunolly in the north- west. Such inundation can be expected at 12.94m on the Singleton Gauge (210001) (5).
e. At approximately the same height 12.94m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) a secondary flow path becomes established across Glenridding and Doughboy Hollow, entering the Hunter River several kilometres down stream of Singleton (5).
f. Further inundation and backwater flooding will change the flood fringe area in Dunolly to a floodway at 13.82m at the Singleton Gauge (210001). The Glenridding / Doughboy Hollow floodway becomes a high flood hazard with floodwaters between 0.5 and 1m in depth (5).
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g. A small area of backwater flood storage starts appearing at 14.18m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) in residential areas, notably adjacent to Queen St and west of the golf course (6).
h. In a 1% AEP event (14.43m at the Singleton Gauge) (5) significant inundation of Singleton's urban area can be expected due to backwater flooding and breaching of the rail line in the vicinity of the station. It should be noted the rail embankment is not an engineered levee and ballast (100mm) will typically wash out. Inundated areas remain low hazard flood storage (5) while the remainder of the floodplain is classified as a high hazard floodway (6).
i. An event with similar characteristics to the 1955 flood (14.71m at the Singleton Gauge (210001)), approximately equivalent to a 0.5% AEP event, will result in overtopping of the rail line, which creates floodways running along residential streets including Walter St, Park St, Fredrick St and the southern end of John St. Areas adjacent the golf course in the north (Gipp St) also become high hazard floodways.
j. In extreme events (15.91m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) (5) virtually the entire remaining urban area of Singleton becomes inundated flood storage (6). In such circumstances Kelso St becomes one of the main floodways running west to east within Singleton, now linking with the reminder of the high hazard floodway floodplain (5).
k. Due to variations in flood levels on different rivers, water travel times can vary significantly from event to event. The indicative flow travel times listed in Table 2 need to be regarded as approximations only.
Table 3: Indicative Flow Travel Time for the Hunter River
Locations Travel Time (h.mm)
Aberdeen to Muswellbrook (22km) 2.30 Muswellbrook to Denman (37km) 4.00 Denman to Jerrys Plains (42km) 4.30 Jerrys Plains to Singleton (54km) 5.30 Singleton to Elderslie (16km) 3.30
Table 4: Indicative Flow Travel Time for the Wollombi Brook
Locations Travel Time (h.mm)
Wollombi to Broke (42km) 4.30 Broke to Bulga (21km) 2.15 Bulga to Singleton (64km) 6.30
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FLOOD HISTORY
The 1949 Flood:
a. Few records exist of the 1949 flood on Wollombi Brook. There is a height estimate, of unknown accuracy, of over 12m at Bulga Gauge (210028). It was the highest flood ever measured at Broke and Warkworth and at the Warkworth Bridge was 0.72 metres higher than the 1955 flood. The 1955 Flood:
b. The 1955 flood (14.71m at the Singleton Gauge (210001)) inundated the entire central business district of Singleton, and virtually the whole residential area as it then existed (up to 2.5m depths). The water reached a depth of approximately 1 metre at the Singleton Railway Station and was of high velocity (2m/s) (5).
c. On the Singleton-Warkworth (Putty) Road and on the New England Highway at Whittingham, the water was more than 3 metres deep. Extensive structural damage was caused, especially to houses in Glenridding and to the railway line which experienced washouts at several locations. Several “high islands” remained above flood level. The 1971 Flood:
d. Floodwaters reached 14.07m on the Singleton Gauge (210001). There was flooding all around the town and most access routes were cut, little water entered the built up area north of the railway line. The Glenridding and Dunolly areas were inundated. The 2007 Flood
e. In June 2007 a major flood occurred on the Hunter River caused by an East Coast Low with a flood peak of 14.2m at the Singleton Gauge (210001). Residents in the low lying areas of Glenridding and Dunolly were evacuated and approximately 91 properties experienced over floor flooding in these areas (6). Despite losing the last evacuation route (Queen St/Redbournberry bridge) for a short period of time, evacuation from Singleton had not been initiated prior to the river reaching this height.
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Table 5: Flood History of Major Floods at the Singleton Gauge (210001)
Date Peak Gauge Height (m) 05 March 1977 13.300 14 August 1952 13.640 18 June 1949 13.740 18 June 1930 13.870 02 February 1971 14.070 15 May 1913 14.170 10 June 2007 14.200 25 February 1955 14.550
FLOOD MITIGATION SYSTEMS
a. There are no additional detention basins within the Singleton LGA.
b. Singleton township is protected by a levee – For more information refer to Section 2.2.7 below.
EXTREME FLOODING
a. In a 1% AEP event (14.43m at the Singleton gauge) the town of Singleton becomes isolated and surrounded by high hazard floodway. This occurs well before the Singleton levee overtops. Much of the town behind the levee is inundated by flood storage.
b. An extreme flood at Singleton (PMF) has been estimated as reaching a height of approximately 15.91 metres at the Singleton Gauge (210001) (6). This flood would overtop the town’s levees by about 1m and would inundate the entire town as well as the lower-lying portions of Singleton Heights. Water levels throughout Singleton could be expected to be 2-3m deep (5).
c. The likelihood of such a flood occurring is extremely small. The PMF has a notional Average Recurrence Interval of 10,000 to 100,000 years (5).
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2 EFFECTS ON THE COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY PROFILE
Table 6: Census of Housing and Population data (2011)
Census Description Singleton Broke Singleton LGA
Total Persons 22,694 640 15,877 Aged 0-4 yrs 1,651 53 1,196 Aged 5-14 yrs 3,379 81 2,314 Aged 65 + yrs 2,351 66 1,694 Of Indigenous Origin 845 9 664 Who do not speak English well 54 0 38 Have a need for assistance 831 10 657 (profound/severe disability) Living alone (Total) 1,602 40 1,293 Living alone (Aged 65+) 505 9 393 Residing in caravans, cabins or 137 4 115 houseboats or improvised dwellings Occupied Private Dwellings 7,759 218 5,551 (Households) No Motor Vehicle 343 4 304 Caravan, cabin, houseboat or 89 3 83 improvised dwell Rented via State or Housing Authority 370 0 390 Rented via Housing Co-Op or 11 0 0 Community Church Group No Internet Connection 1,544 34 1,218 Unoccupied Private Dwellings 879 76 465 Average persons per occup dwelling 2.7 2.7 2.7 Average vehicles per occup dwelling 2.0 2.2 1.9
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SPECIFIC RISK AREAS - FLOOD Hunter River Basin
SINGLETON (INCLUDING COMBO AND REDBOURNBERRY)
2.2.1 Community Overview a. The town of Singleton which includes the central business district has a population of 15,877 and is the largest local centre in the LGA. Singleton township is located on the south side of the Hunter River, inside a bend. The town is protected in part by a levee along its north western boundary.
b. Combo refers to the 5 properties towards the northern end along Combo Lane. Redbournberry is located directly to the east of the Singleton township, and is bound to the east by the Hunter River.
c. Singleton and Combo are shown on Map 3 – Singleton/Combo Town Map
2.2.2 Characteristics of Flooding a. Singleton is affected by riverine flooding from the Hunter River (5).
2.2.3 Flood Behaviour a. At 11.6m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) (10% AEP flood event) Combo Lane is inundated just north of the end of the levee by an overbank flow from the river, which re-enters the river at the end of White Falls Lane, southeast of Singleton (5).
b. Initial backwater inundation of Singleton occurs from 13.82m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) (5% AEP flood event) from the east through the golf course (5).
c. At 14.18m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) (2% AEP flood event) the levee continues to protect the town, but increased backwater flooding affects residential properties located on the town’s western boundary (5).
d. Backwater inundation and flood storage areas within urban areas become flow paths (Kelso Street, the showground and Gipps Street) in events including and over 14.43m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) (1% AEP flood event) (5).
e. Records suggest that the average recurrence intervals for floods reaching or exceeding the presently accepted minor, moderate and major flood thresholds at the Singleton Gauge (210001) are approximately (5):
Description ARI
Minor flood (10.0 metres) 4 years Moderate flood (11.5 metres) 7 years Major flood (13.0 metres and above) 10 years
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2.2.4 Classification of Floodplain a. Singleton has Rising Road Access until 14.2m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) when the last evacuation route along Queen Street becomes inundated (5).
b. From 14.43m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) Singleton becomes a series of large high flood islands (5).
c. At 14.7m high flood island areas include Campbell, View and Barton Streets, Ardersier Drive and the Singleton Hospital site in Dangar Road (5).
d. In the extreme (PMF) event (15.91m at the Singleton Gauge (210001)) only very small areas along View Street and parts of Ardersier Drive remain high flood islands (5).
2.2.5 Inundation a. The Bureau of Meteorology provide flood warnings to the Singleton Gauge (210001) located at the Dunolly Bridge.
b. The town of Singleton is susceptible to floods exceeding the Major flood classification of 13.0m at the Singleton Gauge (210001).
c. Singleton experiences the following sequence of inundation in events exceeding 14.0m at the Singleton Gauge (210001):
i. Backwater flooding of the Singleton township begins from the east at 14.07m at the Singleton Gauge (210001);
ii. Backwater flooding in the vicinity of Queen Street causing residential areas adjacent to Queen Street and east of the golf course experience low hazard inundation from 14.18m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) (6);
iii. Overbank flows travelling around the end of the levee at Combo lane in the north;
iv. Inundation of urban areas in the south once the railway line is overtopped adjacent to Glenridding from 14.43m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) with depths generally less than a metre (6); and
v. Overtopping of the town levee or levee failure in events exceeding 14.87m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) (5).
d. In an extreme event (PMF) of 15.91m at the Singleton Gauge (210001), almost the entire urban area of Singleton can become inundated. Water depths are expected to be in the vicinity of 2-3m throughout urban areas where only very small areas along View Street and parts of Ardersier Drive remain flood free.
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2.2.6 Isolation a. The township of Singleton is isolated well before the town levee overtops, due to loss of evacuation routes across the floodplain. The following summarises evacuation route closures:
i. Bridgman Road may close near Blaxland Avenue (500m north of the intersection with the New England Highway) at a gauge height of 10.6m. This is the normal access route to the Evacuation Centre in Singleton Heights.
ii. The New England Highway north is likely to be closed between Bridgman Road and White Avenue at 12.3m.
iii. The New England Highway south (at Doughboy Hollow, south of Cemetery lane) is likely to be closed at 13.7m
iv. The last road evacuation route out of Singleton along Queen Street and over the Redbournberry Bridge is likely to be closed at 14.2m following inundation west of the bridge near the intersection of Raworth Street.
v. The rail line does not become inundated until 14.7m, however use of rail for evacuation has not been explored.
b. The isolation of 3 properties on Combo Lane occurs from 12.0m at the Singleton Gauge (210001).
2.2.7 Flood Mitigation Systems a. The Singleton levee ensures that in most floods water is retained outside the town of Singleton and flows alongside built up areas on the town’s western extents, or is directed through the Glenridding (Doughboy Hollow) floodway to the southeast (5).
Table 7: Levees in Singleton; summary of information
Singleton Levee
Location The levee is located on the eastern bank of the Hunter River and runs along the north western boundary of the settlement from Waterworks Lane in the south to Combo Lane in the north. Type of Levee (ring The levee is a 2.2km earth and concrete wall levee that protects etc.) the western side of Singleton. Owner Singleton Council Design Height and The levee was built to protect against a 1955 size event of 14.57m freeboard at the Singleton Gauge (210001) with the below additional design heights (2): Between Waterworks Lane in the south to Hunter St in the north, the design height of the levee is 14.57m +1m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) Between Hunter St and north to Combo Lane the design height is 14.57 + 0.3m at the Singleton Gauge (210001)
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Overtopping Height 14.87m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) No. of properties Approximately 2350 residential properties. protected Known low points The levee will first overtop in the section between Hunter Street and north to Combo Lane. Location and Being an open levee system backwater flooding may occur from sequence of the east behind the northern end of the levee adjacent the golf inundation course causing inundation of properties prior to the levee overtopping. Consequences of The levee protects Singleton from direct flood threat up to 14.57m levee overtopping at the Singleton Gauge (210001) however urban areas behind the or failure levee are still inundated by floodwaters due to backwater flooding and breaching of the railway line. High ground behind the levee exists in small isolated pockets once the levee has overtopped. In a PMF flood (15.91m at the Singleton Gauge (210001)) water depths behind the levee are expected to be in the vicinity of 2-3m throughout urban areas where only very small pockets along View Street and parts of Ardersier Drive remain flood free. Deficiencies There are seven screw down stormwater discharge gates in the levee and these must be closed to prevent floodwaters entering the town stormwater drainage system. There is no pump to remove water that falls over the local catchment when the flood gates are closed.
b. The Main Northern Rail line running along the south western boundary of Singleton acts as a pseudo levee preventing flow into town from the Glenridding area. It should be noted that this is not an engineered levee and its prolonged operational performance in large events is unknown.
c. Initial active flow through the south western portion of town will occur once the railway line is overtopped. Studies indicate this may occur in a 1% AEP flood (14.43m at the Singleton Gauge (210001)) where the breach will occur between John Street South and the railway station exposing residential properties to inundation. However as noted above it could be expected that the rail line embankment may fail earlier (5).
2.2.8 Dams a. Impacts below include Dunolly and Glenridding. Glennies Creek Dam
b. In the event of a Sunny Day failure of Glennies Creek Dam, flood waters from the dam would arrive in approximately 3 hours, cutting evacuation routes and overtopping the town’s levee. Within a further 4 hours flood waters would reach their maximum depth of several metres in most areas and the majority of Singleton’s houses and other buildings would be completely inundated (2).
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c. Inundation mapping can be found in the Glennies Creek Dam DSEP. Glenbawn Dam
d. In the event of a Sunny Day Failure of Glenbawn Dam, the start of the flood wave would take approximately 6h50min to reach Singleton with the peak of the flood wave taking approximately 10h30min (2).
e. In a Sunny Day failure and PMF Dam Failure scenario, modelling shows that all areas of Singleton south of the Hunter River will be impacted by floodwaters (2).
f. Inundation mapping can be found in the Glenbawn Dam DSEP. Plashett Dam
g. It has been estimated that a Sunny Day failure would cause inundation extents similar to those of a 20% AEP flood event (estimated height of 10.27m) (5).The peak of the flood wave would take approximately 10 hours to reach Singleton (4).
2.2.9 At Risk Facilities a. There are 6 schools, 3 childcare centres, 8 aged care facilities and 1 hospital at risk of flooding in Singleton. These are described in Annex 2 below.
2.2.10 Other Considerations a. There is a large transient workforce that work in support of mining operations to the west of the town. This workforce generally only stay in accommodation in the town for the period of their shifts and then return elsewhere to their permanent accommodation.
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DUNOLLY
2.3.1 Community Overview a. Dunolly is a locality located on the northern bank of the Hunter River between Singleton and Singleton Heights. Dunolly is predominately rural but has a mixture of residential and light industrial use.
b. There are approximately 27 dwellings and a caravan park located in Dunolly with 65 residents and 43 residents in the caravan park (6).
c. Dunolly is shown on Map 4 – Dunolly Town Map
2.3.2 Characteristics of Flooding a. Dunolly is affected by riverine flooding from the Hunter River.
2.3.3 Flood Behaviour a. In major flood events Dunolly is classified as High Hazard Floodway (6).
b. Initially, floodwaters are contained within the Hunter River channel. Once flood levels reach a gauge height of 10.04m at the Singleton Gauge (210001), floodwater breaks- out from the Hunter River channel to the floodplain around Dunolly.
2.3.4 Classification of Floodplain a. Dunolly has rising road access up until 13.9m on the Singleton Gauge (210001) where the area becomes inundated (7).
2.3.5 Inundation a. The Bureau of Meteorology provide flood warnings to the Singleton Gauge (210001) located at the Dunolly Bridge.
b. At 13.0m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) water begins to enter the urban areas of Dunolly. Approximately 27 dwellings, a commercial property and a caravan park (54 sites) are flood prone in these areas (7).
c. By 13.82m (5% AEP event) at the Singleton Gauge (210001) almost the entire Dunolly floodplain is inundated (5).
d. In an event approximating 14.5m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) it is likely that the area would be inundated to depths of up to 2 metres (5).
2.3.6 Isolation a. The last road out of Dunolly closes at approximately 13.9m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) (8).
b. There may be small areas in Dunolly that are isolated after the evacuation route closes.
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2.3.7 Flood Mitigation Systems a. There are no flood mitigation systems located in Dunolly.
2.3.8 Dams a. Refer to Section 2.2.8.
2.3.9 At Risk Facilities a. The Singleton Caracourt Caravan Park in Dunolly is at risk of flooding. More information can be found in Annex 2.
2.3.10 Other Considerations a. No other considerations.
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GLENRIDDING
2.4.1 Community Overview a. The Glenridding locality is located directly south and adjacent to Singleton, but outside the protection of both the Singleton town levee and the Main Northern Rail Line.
b. Glenridding has an approximate population of 160 people (2006 census) and compromises of roughly 55 dwellings, 5 commercial/industrial business and a caravan park (6).
c. Glenridding is shown on Map 5 – Glenridding Town Map
2.4.2 Characteristics of Flooding a. Glenridding is affected by riverine flooding from the Hunter River.
2.4.3 Flood Behaviour a. This area is classified as 'High Hazard Floodway' in 10% AEP event (13.0m at the Singleton Gauge (210001)) (6).
b. Flooding is characterised by high hazard overland flow paths fed by out of bank flooding crossing Putty Road and flowing east across the floodplain (Doughboy Hollow) where it meets again with the Hunter River several kilometres downstream of Singleton.
c. By 13.82m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) almost the entire Glenridding floodplain is inundated.
2.4.4 Classification of Floodplain a. Glenridding has rising road access towards Singleton.
2.4.5 Inundation a. The Bureau of Meteorology provide flood warnings to the Singleton Gauge (210001) located at the Dunolly Bridge.
b. Inundation of rural areas around Glenridding begins at a height of 10.04m at the Singleton Gauge (210001).
c. At 13.0m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) (approximate 10% AEP event) water will begin to enter the urban areas of Glenridding.
d. By 14.5m at the Singleton Gauge (210001) all properties are expected to be inundated above floor level.
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2.4.6 Isolation a. Inundation of rural roads may cause localised inundation between heights of 10.0m and 14.5m at the Singleton Gauge (210001).
b. No modelling has been completed to assess the extent to which localised isolations occur.
2.4.7 Flood Mitigation Systems a. There are no formal flood mitigation systems located in Glenridding.
2.4.8 Dams a. Refer to Section 2.2.8.
2.4.9 At Risk Facilities a. There is one caravan park located in Glenridding that is at risk of flooding. More information can be found in Annex 2.
2.4.10 Other Considerations a. No other considerations.
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BULGA
2.5.1 Community Overview a. Bulga is located 20km south west of the Singleton township on Putty Road. In 2011 the population of Bulga was 358.
b. Bulga is shown on Map 6 – Bulga Town Map.
2.5.2 Characteristics of Flooding a. Bulga is affected by riverine flooding from the Wollombi Brook.
2.5.3 Flood Behaviour a. Flood modelling has not been completed for Bulga.
2.5.4 Classification of Floodplain a. Classification of the floodplain has not been undertaken for Bulga.
2.5.5 Inundation a. The Bureau of Meteorology provide flood warnings to the Bulga Gauge (210028).
b. Historically, areas around the Putty Road intersections with The Bulga Inlet Road and Wambo Road have become inundated with floodwaters however it is unknown if any properties have been affected by over flood flooding.
2.5.6 Isolation a. At approximately 6.0m on the Bulga Gauge (210028), Bulga becomes isolated. Isolation can last for up to 24 hours (8).
2.5.7 Flood Mitigation Systems a. There are no flood mitigation systems located in Bulga.
2.5.8 Dams a. There are no dams located upstream that will impact Bulga.
2.5.9 At Risk Facilities a. There are no at risk facilities, at risk of flooding located in Bulga.
2.5.10 Other Considerations a. No other considerations.
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BROKE
2.6.1 Community Overview a. Broke is located 24km south of the Singleton township on Wollombi Brook. In 2011 the population of Bulga was 640.
b. Broke is shown on Map 7 – Broke Town Map.
2.6.2 Characteristics of Flooding a. Broke is affected by riverine flooding from the Wollombi Brook.
2.6.3 Flood Behaviour a. Flood modelling has not been completed for Broke.
2.6.4 Classification of Floodplain a. Classification of the floodplain has not been undertaken for Broke.
2.6.5 Inundation a. The Bureau of Meteorology provide flood warnings to the Bulga Gauge (210028) which is located approximately 15km downstream of Broke.
b. The Brickmans Bridge Gauge (210135) is located approximately 10km upstream of Broke, however there are no warnings provided to this gauge.
c. Historically, areas on Wollombi Street, Archer Street, Nelson Street, Singleton Street, Cochrane Street, Blaxland Street, Harrowby Street, Cathcart Street and rural properties alongside Wollombi Brook have been located within flood extents, however it is unknown if any properties have been affected by over flood flooding.
d. Historical flood extents are shown on Map 7 – Broke Town Map.
2.6.6 Isolation a. Historically Broke has become isolated by floodwaters. Isolation is attributed to small catchment flooding of access roads such as Broke Road, as well as flooding attributed to Wollombi Brook.
2.6.7 Flood Mitigation Systems a. There are no flood mitigation systems located in Broke.
2.6.8 Dams a. There are no dams located upstream that will impact Broke.
2.6.9 At Risk Facilities a. There are no at risk facilities, at risk of flooding located in Broke.
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2.6.10 Other Considerations a. No other considerations.
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ROAD CLOSURES
a. Table lists roads liable to flooding in the Singleton LGA
Table 8: Roads liable to flooding in Singleton LGA.
Road Closure location Consequence of Alternate Route Indicative closure gauge height
Singleton Major Road Closures (6) Gauge (210001) Bridgman Road Just south of Blaxland Closes main access to White Avenue 10.6m Avenue Singleton Heights Putty Road 700m south of John Secondary access New England 12m Street high level between Singleton Highway bridge over railway and Sydney lost line New England Between Bridgman Evacuation route Queen Street and 12.3m Highway (north) Road and White closed leading west to Redbournberry Avenue Singleton Heights. Bridge leading to Singleton Heights. New England Doughboy Hollow at Evacuation route to None 13.7m Highway (south) Whittingham Maitland closed Queen Street Between Raworth Loss of last road None 14.2m Street and evacuation route and Redbournberry Bridge access to Singleton Heights (Singleton Outlying Areas Gauge) Neotsfield and Up to 16 houses None 11.5m Kanoona Lanes, isolated on low flood Whittingham islands Racecourse 5 properties isolated None 12m Lane, Whittingham Scotts Flat Road 600m south of Isolation of 10-12 None 12m Pankhurst Bridge houses on low flood islands Army Camp Doughboy Hollow Secondary access Range Road and 12.5m Road closed to Army camp New England Highway Combo Lane To Pigeon Point Isolation of 3 None 12.0m properties
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SUMMARY OF ISOLATED COMMUNITIES AND PROPERTIES
Table 9: Potential Periods of Isolation for communities in Singleton LGA during a 1% AEP Flood (14.47m on Singleton gauge)
Town / Area Population/ Flood Affect Approximate Days NOTES (River Basin) Dwellings Classification period isolation 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Dunolly / Combo 30 homes, 1 Rising road access until 2 days Properties completely inundated in 1% AEP business & 54 12.5m else inundated in 1% site caravan AEP park Glenridding 55 homes. 5 Rising road access until 2 days Properties completely inundated 1% AEP. businesses & 12.5m else inundated in 1% 50 site AEP caravan park Singleton 2350 homes 7 low flood islands in 1% 2 days + Evacuation required in 1% AEP. AEP. >50% reduction area in (behind levee) 0.5% AEP. Inundated in PMF. Whittingham 2% AEP (2007) high flood 2 days High flood island at Whittingham Hall on Range island. Unknown in 1% / Road. Remainder of floodplain inundated. PMF Note: Periods of isolation are a guide only. Liaison with the Local Controller and communities/residents involved is essential during periods of potential and actual isolation.
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ANNEX 1: HUNTER RIVER BASIN SCHEMATICS
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ANNEX 2: FACILITIES AT RISK OF FLOODING AND/OR ISOLATION
Hunter River Valley
Facility Name Street Suburb Comment
Schools
Australian Christian College 23 Maitland Road Singleton Isolated above 14.2m. Subject to inundation in a levee overtopping event. Singleton High School 75-81 York Street Singleton Isolated above 14.2m. Subject to inundation in a levee overtopping event. Singleton Public School 8 Hunter Street Singleton Isolated above 14.2m. Subject to inundation in a levee overtopping event. King Street Public School King Street Singleton Isolated above 14.2m. Subject to inundation in a levee overtopping event. St Catherine’s Catholic College Queen Street Singleton Isolated above 14.2m. Subject to inundation in a levee overtopping event. Hunter Prelude 1 Civic Avenue Singleton Isolated above 14.2m. Subject to inundation in a levee overtopping event. Child Care Centres
Isolated above 14.2m. Rainbow Early Learning Centre 23 Maitland Road Singleton Subject to inundation in a levee overtopping event. Isolated above 14.2m. Singleton Pre-School 56 York Street Singleton Subject to inundation in a levee overtopping event. Isolated above 14.2m. St Patricks Early Education Centre Cnr Market & Boundary Streets Singleton Subject to inundation in a levee overtopping event.
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Facilities for the aged and/or infirm
Singleton District Hospital Dagner Road Singleton High Flood island up to PMF ‘Cooinda’ Aged Hostel 42 Bathurst Street Singleton Isolated above 14.2m Ryder Cheshire Home for the Castlereagh Street Singleton Isolated above 14.2m Physically Disabled Singleton Community Services Bathurst Street Singleton Isolated above 14.2m Centre / Senior Citizens Centre Anglican Aged Units - All Saints High Street Singleton Isolated above 14.2m Court Retirement Village Singleton Sheltered Workshop Bishopgate Street Singleton Isolated above 14.2m Department of Housing Aged Orchard Avenue/Howe Street/ Singleton Isolated above 14.2m Persons Units Buchan Avenue/ Waterhouse Avenue/Pelerin Avenue St Elizabeth Group Homes 6 and 32 Elizabeth Street/15 Singleton Isolated above 14.2m Boundary Street Mercy Nursing Home and Combo Lane Singleton Isolated above 14.2m Convent Utilities and infrastructure
Singleton Train Station Munro Street Singleton Awaiting qualification & references Electricity Substation Orchard Avenue Singleton Awaiting qualification & references Telephone Exchange Ryan Avenue Singleton Awaiting qualification & references Water Treatment Works Bridgeman Road Obanvale Unaffected up to PMF Sewerage Treatment Works Army Camp Road Glenridding There are no identified actions for NSW SES in response to this facility being impacted by flood water.
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Camping Ground / Caravan Parks
Singleton Caracourt Caravan Corner of Bridgeman Road and Dunolly 54 sites consisting of 40 on-site cabins/caravans, 8 sites for Park New England Highway (A15). tourist caravans and 6 sites for tents. Inundation occurs around 13.0m at the Singleton Gauge (210001). Wyland Caravan Park 20 Carrington Street Glenridding 50 sites consisting of 12 cabins, 28 on-site caravans and 10 sites for tourist caravans. Inundation occurs around 13.0m at the Singleton Gauge (210001).
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MAP 1: HUNTER RIVER BASIN MAP
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MAP 2: SINGLETON LGA MAP
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MAP 3: SINGLETON/COMBO TOWN MAP
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MAP 4: DUNOLLY TOWN MAP
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MAP 5: GLENRIDDING TOWN MAP
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MAP 6: BULGA TOWN MAP
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MAP 7: BROKE TOWN MAP
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LIST OF REFERENCES
1. Water NSW. Glenbawn Dam DSEP. 2015.
2. —. Glennies Creek Dam DSEP. s.l. : Water NSW, 2015.
3. AGL Macquarie Pty Ltd. Plashett Dam DSEP. 2014.
4. WBM. Singleton Flood Study. 2007.
5. Singleton Council. Singleton Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan. 2012.
6. Merrick, Simon. Local Controller - NSW SES Singleton Unit. July 2017.
7. NSW State Emergency Service. Flood Intelligence Card - Singleton Gauge. 2015.
8. —. Flood Intelligence Card - Bulga (210028). 1999.
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SES RESPONSE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SINGLETON
Volume 3 of the Singleton Local Flood Plan
CONTENTS
Chapter 1: Flood Warning Systems and Arrangements
- Dissemination options for NSW SES flood information and warning products. - Gauges monitored by the NSW SES within the LGA.
Chapter 2: SES Locality Response Arrangements
- NSW SES flood response arrangements by individual sector within the LGA.
Chapter 3: SES Caravan Park Arrangements
- Arrangements for the Evacuation of flood liable Caravan Parks within the LGA. - Specific arrangements for individual parks likely to be affected by flooding.
VERSION LIST
The following table lists all previously approved versions of this Volume.
Description Date
Singleton Local Flood Plan November 2006
AMENDMENT LIST
Suggestions for amendments to this Volume should be forwarded to:
The Singleton Local Controller NSW State Emergency Service 9-11 Queen Street SINGLETON NSW 2330
Amendments promulgated in the amendments list below have been entered in this Volume.
Amendment Description Updated by Date Number
SINGLETON: FLOOD WARNING SYSTEMS AND ARRANGEMENTS
Chapter 1 of Volume 3 (NSW SES Response Arrangements for Singleton) of the Singleton LGA Local Flood Plan
Last Update: February 2018
Singleton LGA Local Flood Plan
AUTHORISATION
Singleton: Flood Warning Systems and Arrangements has been prepared by the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) as part of a comprehensive planning process.
Document Issue: 3.1-07042014
February 2018 Vol 3, Ch 1: Singleton Flood Warning Systems and Arrangements Page 1
Singleton LGA Local Flood Plan
CONTENTS
AUTHORISATION ...... 1 CONTENTS ...... 2 LIST OF TABLES ...... 2 1. GAUGES MONITORED BY THE NSW SES SINGLETON LOCAL HEADQUARTERS ...... 3 2. DISSEMINATION OPTIONS FOR NSW SES FLOOD INFORMATION AND WARNING PRODUCTS ...... 4
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE 1: GAUGES MONITORED BY THE NSW SES SINGLETON LOCAL HEADQUARTERS ...... 3
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Singleton LGA Local Flood Plan
1. GAUGES MONITORED BY THE NSW SES SINGLETON LOCAL HEADQUARTERS
Table 1: Gauges monitored by the NSW SES SINGLETON Local Headquarters
Gauge Name Type AWRC Bureau Stream Flood level classification Special Reading Owner No. Gauge No. in metres Arrangements MIN MOD MAJ
Sandy Hollow ‡ Automatic 210031 561008 Goulburn River n/a n/a n/a NSW Office of Water
Brickmans Bridge Automatic 210135 561058 Wollombi Brook n/a n/a n/a NSW Office of Water
Bulga *‡ Automatic 210028 61347 Wollombi Brook 3.0 3.7 4.6 NSW Office of Water
Muswellbrook *‡ Automatic 210002 561005 Hunter River 7.2 8.0 10.0 NSW Office of Water
Denman *‡ Automatic 210055 561105 Hunter River 6.5 7.9 9.0 NSW Office of Water
Maison Dieu Automatic 210128 561053 Hunter River n/a n/a n/a NSW Office of Water
Long Point Automatic 210134 561057 Hunter River n/a n/a n/a NSW Office of Water
U/S Singleton Automatic 210129 561054 Hunter river n/a n/a n/a NSW Office of Water
Singleton *‡ Automatic 210001 561010 Hunter River 10.0 11.5 13.0 NSW Office of Water
Notes: The Bureau of Meteorology provides flood warnings for the gauges marked with an asterisk (*). NSW SES Local Flood Advices are provided for the gauges marked with a single cross (†). The NSW SES holds a Flood Intelligence Card for the gauges marked with a double cross (‡).
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Singleton LGA Local Flood Plan
2. DISSEMINATION OPTIONS FOR NSW SES FLOOD INFORMATION AND WARNING PRODUCTS
The NSW SES Hunter Region Headquarters distributes NSW SES Flood Bulletins, NSW SES Evacuation Warnings and NSW SES Evacuation Orders to the following regional media outlets and agencies:
Television Stations:
Station Location
Prime Newcastle
NBN Newcastle
Radio Stations:
Station Location Frequency Modulation
2UH (ABC) Muswellbrook 1044 AM
1233 ABC Newcastle West 1233 AM
2HD Sandgate 1143 AM
Power FM Muswellbrook 98.1 FM
2NUR FM Callaghan 103.7 FM
NEW FM Sandgate 105.3 FM
KO FM Charlestown 102.9 FM
NX FM Charlestown 106.9 FM
Newspapers:
Name Location
Singleton Argus Singleton
Newcastle Herald Newcastle
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Social Media:
Platform Page / Feed Administrator Address / Details
Facebook NSW SES – Singleton NSW SES Singleton Unit @SESSingleton Unit
Facebook NSW SES – Hunter NSW SES Hunter Region @NSWSESHUR Region
Facebook NSW SES NSW SES Media and @NSW.SES Communications
Twitter NSW SES NSW SES Media and /NSWSES Communications
Other Agencies:
Name
Rural Fire Services – Hunter Valley Team
Whittingham Telephone Tree
Combo Lane Telephone Tree
Glenridding Telephone Tree
Hambleton Hill Telephone Tree
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SINGLETON: NSW SES LOCALITY RESPONSE ARRANGEMENTS
Chapter 2 of Volume 3 (NSW SES Response Arrangements for Singleton) of the Singleton LGA Local Flood Plan
Last Update: February 2018
Singleton Local Flood Plan
AUTHORISATION
NSW SES Locality Response Arrangements in Singleton has been prepared by the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) as part of a comprehensive planning process.
Document Issue: V3.2-07042014
February 2018 Vol 3, Ch 2: NSW SES Singleton Locality Response Arrangements Page 1 Singleton Local Flood Plan
CONTENTS
AUTHORISATION ...... 1 CONTENTS ...... 2 LIST OF TABLES ...... 2 SECTOR OVERVIEW ...... 3 MAP 1 – SECTOR OVERVIEW MAP ...... 4 1. SINGLETON TOWNSHIP ...... 5 1.1. Singleton Township Response Arrangements ...... 5 1.2. Singleton Township Map ...... 11 1.3. Evacuation Planning...... 12 2. COMBO AND DUNOLLY SECTOR ...... 17 2.1. Combo and DUNOLLY Response Arrangements ...... 17 2.2. Combo and Dunolly Sector Map ...... 20 3. GLENRIDDING SECTOR ...... 21 3.1. GLENRIDDING Response Arrangements ...... 21 3.2. Glenridding Sector Map ...... 24 4. WHITTINGHAM SECTOR ...... 25 4.1. whittingham Response Arrangements ...... 25 4.2. Whittingham Sector Map ...... 28 5. SCOTTS FLAT SECTOR...... 29 5.1. scotts flat Response Arrangements ...... 29 5.2. Scotts Flat Sector Map ...... 32
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE 1: OVERVIEW OF SECTORS IN THE SINGLETON LGA...... 3
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SECTOR OVERVIEW
Table 1: Overview of Sectors in the Singleton LGA.
Sector Community Sector Basis Total properties Properties potentially at risk
1 Singleton Low Flood Island 2,350 Approximately 1,200 in Township 1% AEP; 2,100 in 0.5% AEP and 2,350 in PMF 2 Combo and Low Flood Island Combo - 4 houses; Combo - 4 houses; Dunolly Dunolly - 27 houses, I Dunolly - 27 houses, I commercial property commercial property plus caravan park (54 plus caravan park (54 sites) sites) 3 Glenridding Low Flood Island 55 houses, 5 55 houses, 5 commercial commercial properties properties plus caravan plus caravan park (50 park (50 sites) sites) 4 Whittingham Majority of sector is Dangar Road -1 house; Dangar Road -1 house; Low Flood Island. Greenwood Avenue – Greenwood Avenue – 2 2 houses; houses; Range Road is classified as rising road Whittingham – 29 Whittingham – 29 area houses houses 5 Scotts Flat Low Flood Island 10 to 12 10 to 12
Note: NSW SES will develop sector response arrangements for Bulga and Broke upon completion of the Floodplain Risk Management Process in these areas as there is insufficient data at this time.
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MAP 1 – SECTOR OVERVIEW MAP
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1. SINGLETON TOWNSHIP
1.1. SINGLETON TOWNSHIP RESPONSE ARRANGEMENTS Refer to Volume 2: Hazard and Risk in Singleton for more information about this Sector/Community.
Sector Description This sector includes Singleton Township, including the central business district and residential areas. It is broadly bounded by the Hunter River to the west, Queen Street Sub-Sectors – to the north and by the Main Northern Railway line to the south. 1. Bravo A 2,262m long levee along the western boundary provides protection to the majority of the sector up to the 1% AEP level (14.43m). The levee is not overtopped at this level, 2. Charlie although backwater flooding has begun. 3. Delta The last evacuation route out of the division closes at 14.20m. For large scale evacuations the division is split into three sub-sectors for operational management (Alpha Sector is Combo and Dunolly evacuation areas): 1. Bravo – Bound by York Street (south), New England Highway, Main Northern Railway Line and Singleton levee 2. Charlie – Bound by Singleton levee, York Street (north) and New England Highway 3. Delta – Bound by Combo, New England Highway and Hunter River.
Hazard Inundation as a result of riverine flooding from the Hunter River. Inundation is largely mitigated by the levee, however when this asset overtops, the majority of the township is inundated. Flood Affect Low flood island. Classification
At risk properties . Expect 1,200 properties in 1% AEP; Total number of properties . around 2,100 in 0.5% AEP and in Sector: . 2,350 in PMF 2,350 Sector Control Control – The NSW SES Incident Controller will control operations and evacuations in this sector. Command – The NSW SES Incident Controller will remain in command of all NSW SES assets in this sector. Agency Commanders will retain command of their own assets. Coordination – Where coordination of functional areas and support agencies is required, the Local Emergency Operations Controller will perform this role through the activation of and Emergency Operations Centre.
Key Warning Gauge Name AWRC Min Mod Maj Name No. (m) (m) (m) Singleton (Dunolly Bridge) 210001 10.0 11.5 13.0
General Strategy Provision of flood rescue assets to the sector to ensure an appropriate standard of coverage. Undertaking of specific actions in response to heights predicted by the Bureau, supported by Flood Intelligence and Action Cards. Timely issuing of Flood Bulletins that inform the community of likely impacts. Evacuation and registration of at risk population: o Self-evacuation to friends/family outside of the impact area. These community members should still register at the identified Assembly Area.
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o Establishment of an Assembly Area/Evacuation Centre in consultation with the Welfare Services Functional Area Coordinator. Establishment of temporary worksites such as helicopter landing zones and sandbag filling areas.
Key Risks / 14.07m – Backwater flooding of Singleton Township begins from the east. Consequences 14.20m – The last evacuation route via Queen Street closes at Raworth Street. 14.43m (1% AEP) – Depths of inundation through the town are generally less than a metre. Significant flow paths are established along Kelso Street and through the showground, linking up to the golf course through Gipps Street. Extensive backwater inundation of properties is occurring on the eastern side of George Street/Maitland Road (New England Highway). The Main Northern Railway line at the old low level rail crossing, between the new high level bridge and Singleton Railway Platform is overtopped. 14.57m - Is the peak of the 1955 flood and the design level of the levee. 14.71m (0.5% AEP) – Inundation depths are generally greater with between 1.5 and 2 metres along the flow paths. At this level only View Street, Barton Avenue, the Hospital and Ardersier Drive are flood free. 14.87m – Is the lowest point on levee crest (Combo Lane area). 15.91m (PMF) – Flood depths within Singleton generally exceed about 2 – 3 metres with only very small areas in View Street and part of Ardersier Drive flood free.
The NSW SES will issue the following relevant and contextualised information to the Information and Warnings public: NSW SES Bulletins o Flood Watch
o Local Flood Advice
o Flood Warning
o Equipment and Livestock Warning
o Media Releases
Evacuation Warning
Evacuation Order
Evacuation All Clear NSW SES Flood Bulletins will associate flood heights predicted by the Bureau with possible local consequences.
The NSW SES will use the following methods of delivery to provide flood information to the public:
Sequenced door knocking
Emergency Alert
Standard Emergency Warning Signal (SEWS)
Media briefing
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Interagency briefings – LEMC or EOC
Social Media
Radio All NSW SES Bulletins, Evacuation Warning and Orders will be posted to the following social media forums:
Facebook: NSW SES – Hunter Region
Facebook: NSW SES – Singleton Unit Bureau products, such as Flood Watches and Flood Warnings will include NSW SES safety advice.
For more information refer to the Singleton Local Flood Plan Chapter 1 of Volume 3 – Flood Warning Systems and Arrangements. Assistance with property protection Property Protection NSW SES will monitor rising flood waters and provide the following assistance for flood-threatened properties where time and resources permit:
Relocation of personal property for at risk locations
Relocation of movable at-risk public assets
Protection of property through sandbagging
Monitoring the integrity of dwellings surrounded by flood waters Specific requests for assistance are received through the 132 500 centralised call- taking system.
Property protection is limited due to the fast rising and depth of floodwater in this division. Protection of essential infrastructure
The local telephone exchange is located in Ryan Avenue and is situated on the upper story of the building.
The electricity substation is located in Orchard Avenue on raised ground approximately 0.5m above the roadway.
Operation of flood mitigation measures: Singleton Council is responsible for closing the eight screw down type gates, if flooding is expected to reach 10.00m.
Evacuation Triggers If this sector requires evacuation, 2,350 properties will require evacuation. If height prediction is to exceed 12.00m then an Evacuation Warning should be considered If height prediction is to reach/exceed 14.20m then an Evacuation Order is issued
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Sequencing of The Singleton Township Division is divided into three sectors i.e. Bravo, Charlie and evacuation Delta with the sequencing of evacuations to be carried out in that same order. NSW SES Singleton Unit maintains Flood Evacuation Boxes, that support the mass evacuation operation.
Residents who wish to leave the local government area can do so by heading south on Evacuation Routes the New England Highway (A15) until approximately 13.70m (Singleton Gauge), when the highway is likely to close at Doughboy Hollow.
Residents who evacuate to Singleton Heights can proceed via the New England Highway and White Avenue to Singleton Heights up to 12.30m.
After 12.30m and up to 14.20m, evacuees proceed via Queen Street and over Redbournberry Bridge to Gresford Road, then Dyrring Road, Pioneer Road, Bridgeman Road and Blaxland Avenue to Singleton Heights
Evacuation Route Putty Road, Glenridding closes around 12.00m Closure New England Highway (A15) northbound closes around 12.30m between Bridgeman Road and White Avenue New England Highway (A15) southbound closes around 13.70m at Doughboy Hollow Queen Street closes around 14.20m at Raworth Street. This is the last evacuation route out of Singleton Township.
Evacuations should reflect the principles outlined in the Evacuation Planning Method of Evacuation Handbook (Attorney-General’s Department – Australian Emergency Management Institute)
At risk residents will be advised of Evacuation Warnings and Evacuation Orders via warnings issued and/or doorknocks from emergency services personnel advising them of the arrangements.
Self-evacuation by private transport to family/friends or an Evacuation Centre/Assembly Area is the preferred method of withdrawal.
An Evacuation Centre may be established as required.
Evacuation will be conducted by the NSW SES and can be supported by the NSW RFS, NSW Police Force, NSW Ambulance and/or the Transport Services Functional Area Coordinator where required.
NSW Police will be responsible for security of evacuated areas. Evacuation Centres/Assembly Areas will be determined by the Welfare Services Evacuation Centre/Assembly Functional Area Coordinator and the NSW SES. Potential locations include: Point . Singleton Diggers, Dorsman Drive, Singleton Heights . Singleton Heights Sports Centre, 105 Blaxland Avenue, Singleton Heights . Singleton Heights Public School, 1 - 13 Dorsman Drive, Singleton Heights
In large scale evacuations the Singleton Township Sector is divided into three Large scale evacuations subsectors: Bravo, Charlie and Delta.
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. Sector Bravo is the area south of York Street, west of Maitland Road/New England Highway, north of Main Northern Railway line and east of the Singleton levee.
This sector is split into 20 doorknocking areas.
. Sector Charlie is the area bounded by the Singleton levee, York Street and George Street/New England Highway.
This sector is split into nine (9) doorknocking areas.
. Sector Delta is the urban area to the east of George Street/Maitland Road/New England Highway.
This sector is split into 14 doorknocking areas.
Rescue NSW SES will ensure flood rescue assets are present in this sector. These assets will be managed by the NSW SES Incident Controller.
There is no requirement for resupply operations to be undertaken in this sector. Resupply In unusually protracted flood operations a resupply strategy may be developed for rural areas surrounding this sector.
Table 2, in Volume 2 provides information about isolated communities in the Singleton Shire area and potential periods of isolation.
A flowchart illustrating the Resupply process is shown in Volume 1 of the Local Flood Plan, Attachment 1
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Aircraft will be tasked by the NSW SES at a Region or State Level. Aircraft Management Helicopter Landing Points
Suitable Landing Points to support this sector are located at:
Singleton Heights Public School, Singleton Heights (flood free)
Alroy Oval, Singleton Heights (flood free)
Mines Rescue, Lachlan Avenue, Singleton Heights (flood free)
Allan Bull Reserve, Bridgman Road, Hunterview (flood free)
Baptist Church and Community Hall, Gardner Circuit, Singleton Heights (flood free)
Singleton Council Works Depot, Maison Dieu Road, Singleton
Singleton Hospital Helipad, Dangar Road and Carroll Street, Singleton
Ruby Park, Howe Street, Singleton
Singleton High School, York Street, Singleton
Albion Park, Wynyard Street, Singleton
Apex Park, Buchan Avenue, Singleton
King Street Public School, King Street, Singleton
Town Head Park, Maitland Road, Singleton
Note that many of these landing points are inundated in extreme flooding.
Airports
Airports that service this sector and can provide helicopter refuelling include:
Newcastle Airport Location: 32⁰47’42”S 151⁰50’04”E
1 Williamtown Drive, Williamtown
Owners: Newcastle City Council, Port Stephens Council
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1.2. SINGLETON TOWNSHIP MAP
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1.3. EVACUATION PLANNING
NSW SES Singleton Unit have developed a comprehensive strategy for undertaking doorknocking operations in the Singleton Township. Subsectors are identified in 8 ‘boxes’ stored at the NSW SES Singleton Unit with all of the information required to undertake evacuations of that subsector. Areas identified in each box are listed below.
There are a number of assumptions made in the development of this evacuation strategy:
1. The Bureau of Meteorology (the Bureau) will be able to provide accurate information to support the NSW SES with the decision to evacuate. 2. The Bureau will be able to make an accurate prediction regarding the peak height of the Hunter River at Singleton during a Major flood event 10 hours before the peak. The Bureau’s Target Lead Time for provision of predictive warning for the Major Flooding at the Hunter River at Singleton is 24 hours. 3. The Hunter River’s rate of rise between 10m and 14.2m could be from 9.75-18.5 hours at the Singleton Gauge. 4. The community of Singleton will be willing to evacuate when requested by the NSW SES. 5. The Singleton Township levee overtops at 14.87m at the Singleton Gauge. 6. The last evacuation route to leave Singleton Township will be submerged by floodwater at 14.20m at the Singleton Gauge. 7. The evacuation routes identified in this plan will be clear and serviceable at the time that evacuation is required. 8. NSW SES and supporting agencies will be able to provide sufficient personnel to effectively doorknock Singleton Township and the residents will have time to complete their evacuation from the time the Bureau makes a prediction that the levee will overtop to the time that the last evacuation route is cut by floodwater.
Areas covered by the NSW SES Flood Boxes
Box 1 (Glenridding/ Dunolly Sectors) Church Street, Glenridding – All addresses Newton Street, Dunnolly – All addresses between Army Camp Road intersection and between Dunnolly Bridge and Bridgman Road Victoria Street, Glenridding – All addresses Victoria Street intersection intersection Crown Street, Glenridding – All addresses Combo Lane, Combo – All addresses Bridgman Road, Dunnolly – All addresses Putty Road, Glenridding – From the suburban between Dunolly Road intersection and New Darlington Road, Darlington – All addresses fringe to the intersection with Carrington England Highway intersection Street Dunolly Road, Dunolly – All addresses
Carrington Street, Glenridding – All addresses Bank Street, Dunolly – All addresses
Glenridding Road, Glenridding – All addresses Phillip Street, Dunnolly – All addresses
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Box 2 (Sub-sector Bravo) Gipp Street, Singleton – All addresses John Street, Singleton – All addresses between New England Highway overpass and Ryan Andrew Street, Singleton – All addresses Percy Street, Singleton – All addresses Avenue intersection Ada Street, Singleton – All addresses Boonal Street, Singleton – All addresses Macquarie Street, Singleton – All addresses Railway Street, Singleton – All addresses Doyle Street, Singleton – All addresses Bourke Street, Singleton – All addresses Box 5 (Sub-sector Delta) View Street, Singleton – All addresses Cameron Street, Singleton – All addresses Campbell Street, Singleton – All addresses Renshaw Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Fitz Street, Singleton – All addresses Cambridge Street, Singleton – All addresses Rose Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Cranston Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Bishopgate Street, Singleton – All addresses Waddells Lane, Singleton – All addresses Dangar Road, Singleton – All addresses Kent Street, Singleton – All addresses Market Street, Singleton – All addresses Ellen Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Queen Street, Singleton – All addresses High Street, Singleton – All addresses between New England Highway overpass and Waterhouse Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Goulburn Street, Singleton – All addresses Redbournberry Bridge Townhead Crescent, Singleton – All addresses Box 6 (Sub-sector Delta) Raworth Street, Singleton – All addresses Bond Street, Singleton – All addresses Ardersier Drive, Singleton – All addresses Cowley Street, Singleton – All addresses Gaslight Place, Singleton – All addresses Loder Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Bowden Street, Singleton – All addresses Searl Close, Singleton – All addresses Deakin Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Castlereach Street, Singleton – All addresses Patrick Street, Singleton – All addresses Tulloch Close, Singleton – All addresses Springdale Drive, Singleton – All addresses Box 4 (Sub-sector Charlie) Belah Place, Singleton – All addresses Brittliffe Close, Singleton – All addresses Elizabeth Street, Singleton – All addresses Riddles Road, Singleton – All addresses Kelso Street, Singleton – All addresses Hunter Street, Singleton – All addresses Myall Place, Singleton – All addresses Howe Street, Singleton – All addresses Box 3 (Sub-sector Delta) William Street, Singleton – All addresses George Street, Singleton – All addresses Carroll Street, Singleton – All addresses Kennedy Street, Singleton – All addresses between the Queen Street overpass and Brucedale Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Brown Close, Singleton – All addresses Boundary Street intersection Maitland Road / New England Highway, Pitt Street, Singleton – All addresses Singleton – All addresses between Boundary Kingston Close, Singleton – All addresses Street intersection and Waddells Lane Boundary Street, Singleton – All addresses intersection
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Brisbane Street, Singleton – All addresses King Street, Singleton – All addresses Curtis Street, Singleton – All addresses Edinburgh Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Sylvester Close, Singleton – All addresses Box 7 (Sub-sector Delta) Orchards Lane, Singleton – All addresses Mary Street, Singleton – All addresses Flowerbank Close, Singleton – All addresses Frederick Street, Singleton – All addresses Barton Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Thomas Street, Singleton – All addresses Sturt Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Munro Lane, Singleton – All addresses Box 9 Bathurst Street, Singleton – All addresses Gas Street, Singleton – All addresses Whittingham Streets will be added once Argyle Street, Singleton – All addresses developed. York Street, Singleton – All addresses Dalton Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Greenwood Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Harriett Street, Singleton – All addresses Park Street, Singleton – All addresses Lesley Street, Singleton – All addresses Dudding Street, Singleton – All addresses Walter Street, Singleton – All addresses Bowman Street, Singleton – All addresses
Box 8 (Sub-sector Bravo)
Buchan Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Albert Street, Singleton – All addresses Wynyard Street, Singleton – All addresses Rawcliffe Street, Singleton – All addresses Shaw Street, Singleton – All addresses Church Street, Singleton – All addresses Pelerin Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Collett Avenue, Singleton – All addresses Sussex Street, Singleton – All addresses
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Evacuation Timeline
The NSW SES identifies six time based factors in an evacuation timeline where a warning strategy is doorknocking:
Mobilisation Time – The time it takes from the NSW SES making the decision to evacuate to the time where doorknocking operations commence. Warning Time – The time it takes for the NSW SES and supporting agencies to deliver the warning message. Travel Time – The time it takes for members of the affected community to move from the at risk area to an area of safety. Warning Acceptance Factor – The time it takes for members of the community to accept that they will need to evacuate. Warning Lag Factor – The time it may take community members to prepare to evacuate. Traffic Safety Factor – The time it may take to clear evacuation routes if they become blocked.
A reasonable timeframe to evacuate the Singleton Township is around 10 hours.
The key factors considered in determining this timeframe include: The Bureau’s ability to accurately predict a Major flood peak on the Hunter River at the Singleton Gauge The NSW SES’s ability to effectively communicate the appropriate warnings The evacuation routes ability to carry evacuating vehicles The community’s time to accept and act on the warnings provided by the NSW SES.
Evacuation Timeline Rationale
Time Required to doorknock Number of vehicles the evacuation route Percentage of Number of Teams 2350 properties* could handle in this time** capacity of road**
5 42 hours 23,400 vehicles 16% *Includes 3 hours Acceptance, Lag and Traffic Factor 10 23 hours 12,000 vehicles 31% ** Based on 600 vehicles per 15 16 hours 7,800 vehicles 48% hour - single lane starting at end 20 13 hours 6,000 vehicles 62% of lag and acceptance values 25 11 hours 4,800 vehicles 78% 30 10 hours 4,200 vehicles 89% 35 9 hours 3,600 vehicles 104%
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February 2018 Vol 3, Ch 2: NSW SES Singleton Locality Response Arrangements Page 16 Singleton Local Flood Plan
2. COMBO AND DUNOLLY SECTOR
2.1. COMBO AND DUNOLLY RESPONSE ARRANGEMENTS Refer to Volume 2: Hazard and Risk in Singleton for more information about this Sector/Community.
Sector Description Combo and Dunolly are two separate areas. Combo is to the north of Queen Street, Singleton and comprises only one street (Combo Lane) that leads to Pigeon Point. Dunolly is bounded by the Hunter River to the south and east, the New England Highway to the north and the suburb of Darlington to the west. It includes the following streets: . Bank Street . Dunolly Road . Newton Street . Philip Street . Bridgeman Road . Darlington Road The sector is outside of the Singleton Levee and is subject to inundation around the 10% AEP flood level (12.94m). The sector is completely flood prone and likely to experience high hazard flooding. The residential area of Darlington is not flood affected.
Hazard Inundation as a result of riverine flooding from the Hunter River
Flood Affect Combo (Pigeon Point) and Dunolly are low flood islands Classification
At risk properties Combo - 4 houses; Dunolly - 27 Total number of properties within houses, I commercial property plus Sector/Community caravan park (54 sites) Combo – 4 houses; Dunolly - 27 houses, I commercial property plus caravan park (54 sites) Sector Control Control – The NSW SES Incident Controller will control operations and evacuations in this sector. Command – The NSW SES Incident Controller will remain in command of all NSW SES assets in this sector. Agency Commanders will retain command of their own assets. Coordination – Where coordination of functional areas and support agencies is required, the Local Emergency Operations Controller will perform this role through the activation of and Emergency Operations Centre.
Key Warning Gauge Name AWRC Min Mod Maj (m) Name No. (m) (m) Singleton (Dunolly Bridge) 210001 10.0 11.5 13.0
General Strategy Provision of flood rescue assets to the sector to ensure an appropriate standard of coverage. Undertaking of specific actions in response to heights predicted by the Bureau, supported by Flood Intelligence and Action Cards. Timely issuing of Flood Bulletins that inform the community of likely impacts.
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Evacuation and registration of at risk population: o Self-evacuation to friends/family outside of the impact area. These community members should still register at the identified Assembly Area. o Establishment of an Assembly Area/Evacuation Centre in consultation with the Welfare Services Functional Area Coordinator.
Key Risks / 10.04m – Rural inundation begins around Combo and Dunolly Consequences 11.80m – Dunolly and Bridgeman Roads (Old New England Highway) may have water on them and close to traffic. 12.00m – Combo Lane to Pigeon Point closed isolating 3 residences. House floor levels above 14.57m (1955 flood level) 13.00m – Floodwaters will begin to enter the residential area of Dunolly 13.82m (5% AEP) – Almost the entire Dunolly floodplain is inundated In an event approximating 14.50m (1% AEP) it is likely that the area would be inundated to depths of up to 2 metres.
Information and A full description of strategies to communicate Information and Warnings is outlined in Warnings 1. Singleton Township. Specific to this sector: Dunolly Subsector – Evacuation Warnings and Orders are communicated to the community though doorknocking. Combo Subsector – A small telephone tree is also used.
Assistance with property protection Property Protection NSW SES will monitor rising flood waters and provide the following assistance for flood- threatened properties where time and resources permit:
Relocation of personal property for at risk locations
Relocation of movable at-risk public assets
Protection of property through sandbagging
Monitoring the integrity of dwellings surrounded by flood waters
Specific requests for assistance are received through the 132 500 centralised call-taking system.
Property protection is limited due to the fast rising and depth of floodwater in this division. Protection of essential infrastructure Public infrastructure in this sector is limited to the local road network. Operation of flood mitigation measures There are no flood mitigations measures in this sector.
Evacuation Triggers If height prediction is to exceed 11.00m then an Evacuation Warning should be considered for Combo and Dunolly. If height prediction is to reach/exceed 12.00m then an Evacuation Order is issued for Combo and Dunolly.
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Sequencing of Due to the size of the sector there is no specific sequencing of evacuation. Properties evacuation here are included in box 1 described above and evacuation has been estimated to take 1 hour. Evacuation Routes From Bridgeman Road to the New England Highway. Up to 12.30m (Singleton Gauge) proceed via the New England Highway and White Avenue to Singleton Heights. After 12.30m and up to 14.20m proceed via the New England Highway, John Street, Queen Street and over Redbournberry Bridge to Gresford Road, then Dyrring Road, Pioneer Road, Bridgeman Road and Blaxland Avenue to Singleton Heights
Evacuation Route New England Highway (north of Singleton Township) closes around 12.30m (Singleton Closure Gauge). Alternative route is via Queen Street and over Redbournberry Bridge to Gresford Road, then Dyrring Road, Pioneer Road, Bridgeman Road and Blaxland Avenue to Singleton Heights The last evacuation route via Queens Street closes at 14.20m near Raworth Street.
Evacuations should reflect the principles outlined in the Evacuation Planning Method of Evacuation Handbook (Attorney-General’s Department – Australian Emergency Management Institute)
At risk residents will be advised of Evacuation Warnings and Evacuation Orders via warnings issued and/or doorknocks from emergency services personnel advising them of the arrangements.
Self-evacuation by private transport to family/friends or an Evacuation Centre/Assembly Area is the preferred method of withdrawal.
An Evacuation Centre may be established as required.
Evacuation will be conducted by the NSW SES and can be supported by the NSW RFS and NSW Police Force, where required.
NSW Police will be responsible for security of evacuated areas. Evacuation Centres/Assembly Areas will be determined by the Welfare Services Evacuation Centre/Assembly Functional Area Coordinator and the NSW SES. Potential locations include: Point Singleton Diggers, Dorsman Drive, Singleton Heights Singleton Heights Sports Centre, 105 Blaxland Avenue, Singleton Heights Singleton Heights Public School, 1 - 13 Dorsman Drive, Singleton Heights Large scale For the purposes of evacuation the sector is divided into two (2) doorknocking areas: evacuations Combo Lane, Bank Street, Dunolly and Darlington Roads Bridgeman Road, Newton and Philip Streets
Rescue NSW SES will ensure flood rescue assets are present in this sector. These assets will be managed by the NSW SES Incident Controller.
Resupply Resupply is unlikely to be required in this sector.
Aircraft Aircraft Management is outlined in 1. Singleton Township. Management
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2.2. COMBO AND DUNOLLY SECTOR MAP
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3. GLENRIDDING SECTOR
3.1. GLENRIDDING RESPONSE ARRANGEMENTS Refer to Volume 2: Hazard and Risk in Singleton for more information about this Sector/Community.
Sector Description The Glenridding Sector is bounded by the Main Northern Railway Line to the north and by the Glenridding/Putty Roads to the west and includes the following streets: . Carrington Street . Glenridding Road . Victoria Street . Crown Street . Church Street The sector is outside of the Singleton Levee and is subject to inundation around the 10% AEP flood level (12.94m). The sector is completely flood prone and likely to experience high hazard flooding.
Hazard Inundation as a result of riverine flooding from the Hunter River
Flood Affect Low flood island Classification 55 houses, 5 55 houses, 5 At risk properties Total number of properties within commercial commercial Sector/Community properties plus properties plus caravan park (50 caravan park (50 sites) sites) Sector Control Control – The NSW SES Incident Controller will control operations and evacuations in this sector. Command – The NSW SES Incident Controller will remain in command of all NSW SES assets in this sector. Agency Commanders will retain command of their own assets. Coordination – Where coordination of functional areas and support agencies is required, the Local Emergency Operations Controller will perform this role through the activation of and Emergency Operations Centre.
Key Warning Gauge Name AWRC Min Mod Maj Name No. (m) (m) (m) Singleton (Dunolly Bridge) 210001 10.0 11.5 13.0
General Strategy Provision of flood rescue assets to the sector to ensure an appropriate standard of coverage. Undertaking of specific actions in response to heights predicted by the Bureau, supported by Flood Intelligence and Action Cards. Timely issuing of Flood Bulletins that inform the community of likely impacts. Evacuation and registration of at risk population: o Self-evacuation to friends/family outside of the impact area. These community members should still register at the identified Assembly Area. o Establishment of an Assembly Area/Evacuation Centre in consultation with the Welfare Services Functional Area Coordinator.
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Key Risks / . 10.04m – Rural inundation begins around Glenridding Consequences . 13.00m – Floodwaters will begin to enter the residential area of Glenridding . 13.82m (5% AEP) – Almost the entire Glenridding floodplain is inundated . In an event approximating 14.50m (1% AEP) all properties are expected to be inundated above floor level.
Information and A full description of strategies to communicate Information and Warnings is outlined in Warnings 1. Singleton Township. Specific to this sector: Evacuation Warnings and Orders are communicated to the community though doorknocking. A small telephone tree is also used to provide warnings.
Assistance with property protection Property Protection NSW SES will monitor rising flood waters and provide the following assistance for flood-threatened properties where time and resources permit:
Relocation of personal property for at risk locations
Relocation of movable at-risk public assets
Protection of property through sandbagging
Monitoring the integrity of dwellings surrounded by flood waters Specific requests for assistance are received through the 132 500 centralised call- taking system.
Property protection is limited due to the fast rising and depth of floodwater in this division. Protection of essential infrastructure The only public infrastructure in the sector is - . the sewerage treatment works located off Army Camp Road, Glenridding . Main Northern Railway Line. . local road network Operation of flood mitigation measures There are no flood mitigations measures in this sector.
Evacuation Triggers If height prediction is to exceed 11.00m then an Evacuation Warning is issued If height prediction is to reach/exceed 13.00m then an Evacuation Order is issued
Sequencing of Due to the size of the sector there is no specific sequencing of evacuation. Information evacuation on Glenridding is contained in box 1 described above. Evacuation warnings are estimated to take 2 hours. Evacuation Routes From Carrington Street, Glenridding onto The Putty Road and over high level bridge into John Street Singleton. Up to 12.30m (Singleton Gauge) proceed via Campbell Street, the New England Highway and White Avenue to Singleton Heights. After 12.30m and up to 14.20m continue along John Street to Queen Street and over Redbournberry Bridge to Gresford Road, then Dyrring Road, Pioneer Road, Bridgeman Road and Blaxland Avenue to Singleton Heights
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Evacuation Route New England Highway (north of Singleton Township) closes around 12.30m (Singleton Closure Gauge). Alternative route is via Queen Street and over Redbournberry Bridge to Gresford Road, then Dyrring Road, Pioneer Road, Bridgeman Road and Blaxland Avenue to Singleton Heights The last evacuation route via Queens Street closes at 14.20m near Raworth Street.
Evacuations should reflect the principles outlined in the Evacuation Planning Method of Evacuation Handbook (Attorney-General’s Department – Australian Emergency Management Institute)
At risk residents will be advised of Evacuation Warnings and Evacuation Orders via warnings issued and/or doorknocks from emergency services personnel advising them of the arrangements.
Self-evacuation by private transport to family/friends or an Evacuation Centre/Assembly Area is the preferred method of withdrawal.
An Evacuation Centre may be established as required.
Evacuation will be conducted by the NSW SES and can be supported by the NSW RFS and NSW Police Force where required.
NSW Police will be responsible for security of evacuated areas. Evacuation There is no evacuation centres located within this sector. Centre/Assembly Evacuation Centres/Assembly Areas will be determined by the Welfare Services Point Functional Area Coordinator and the NSW SES. Potential locations include: Singleton Diggers, Dorsman Drive, Singleton Heights Singleton Heights Sports Centre, 105 Blaxland Avenue, Singleton Heights Singleton Heights Public School, 1 - 13 Dorsman Drive, Singleton Heights
Large scale For the purposes of evacuation the sector is divided into two (2) doorknocking areas evacuations being- . Victoria and Crown Streets . Carrington Street, Glenridding and Putty Roads
Rescue NSW SES will ensure flood rescue assets are present in this sector. These assets will be managed by the NSW SES Incident Controller.
Resupply Resupply is unlikely to be required in this sector
Aircraft Aircraft Management is outlined in 1. Singleton Township. Management
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3.2. GLENRIDDING SECTOR MAP
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4. WHITTINGHAM SECTOR
4.1. WHITTINGHAM RESPONSE ARRANGEMENTS Refer to Volume 2: Hazard and Risk in Singleton for more information about this Sector/Community.
Sector Description The Whittingham Sector is the area immediately south east of Singleton Township along the New England Highway. It is bound by the Main Northern Railway Line to the west and by the Hunter River to the east and includes the following streets: . Far eastern ends of Dangar Road and Greenwood Avenue, Singleton . White Falls Lane (west end) . Newington Lane . Haggarty Lane . Cemetery Lane . Neotsfield Lane . Racecourse Lane . Kanoona Lane . Range Road. The sector is outside of the Singleton Levee and is subject to inundation around 11.50m. The sector is completely flood prone and likely to experience high hazard flooding.
Hazard Inundation as a result of riverine flooding from the Hunter River
Flood Affect The majority of the sector is classified as low flood island. Classification Range Road is a rising road access area.
At risk properties At Risk Total number of properties within Dangar Road -1 house; Sector/Community Greenwood Avenue – 2 houses; . Dangar Road -1 house; Whittingham – 29 houses . Greenwood Avenue – 2 houses; . Whittingham – 29 houses
Sector Control Control – The NSW SES Incident Controller will control operations and evacuations in this sector. Command – The NSW SES Incident Controller will remain in command of all NSW SES assets in this sector. Agency Commanders will retain command of their own assets. Coordination – Where coordination of functional areas and support agencies is required, the Local Emergency Operations Controller will perform this role through the activation of and Emergency Operations Centre.
Key Warning Gauge Name AWRC Min Mod Maj (m) Name No. (m) (m) Singleton (Dunolly Bridge) 210001 10.0 11.5 13.0
General Strategy Provision of flood rescue assets to the sector to ensure an appropriate standard of coverage. Undertaking of specific actions in response to heights predicted by the Bureau,
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supported by Flood Intelligence and Action Cards. Timely issuing of Flood Bulletins that inform the community of likely impacts. Evacuation and registration of at risk population: o Self-evacuation to friends/family outside of the impact area. These community members should still register at the identified Assembly Area. o Establishment of an Assembly Area/Evacuation Centre in consultation with the Welfare Services Functional Area Coordinator. The Whittingham community have developed a Community Action Plan to support the evacuation of livestock to higher ground. This plan is available to the NSW SES.
Key Risks / 9.00m – Floodwater at eastern end of Haggartys Lane, Whittingham (June 2007). Consequences 11.50 – Neotsfield and Kanoona Lanes, Whittingham closed with 16 residences isolated. Floodwater at eastern end of Racecourse Lane, Whittingham. 12.00m – Racecourse Lane, Whittingham closed with about 5 residences isolated. White Falls, Newington and Cemetery Lanes are all inundated but no height has been recorded for theses lanes. 12.20m – Extensive flooding of farmlands around Singleton occurring at this height. 13.70m – New England Highway (A15) likely to close at Doughboy Hollow.
Information and A full description of strategies to communicate Information and Warnings is outlined in Warnings 1. Singleton Township. Specific to this sector: Evacuation Warnings and Orders are communicated to the community though doorknocking. A small telephone tree is also used to provide warnings.
Assistance with property protection Property Protection NSW SES will monitor rising flood waters and provide the following assistance for flood- threatened properties where time and resources permit:
Relocation of personal property for at risk locations
Relocation of movable at-risk public assets
Protection of property through sandbagging
Monitoring the integrity of dwellings surrounded by flood waters
Specific requests for assistance are received through the 132 500 centralised call-taking system.
Property protection is limited due to the fast rising and depth of floodwater in this division. Protection of essential infrastructure The public infrastructure in this sector is - . Main Northern Railway Line . New England Highway and bridges . Local road network Operation of flood mitigation measures There are no flood mitigations measures in this sector.
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Evacuation Triggers . If height prediction is to exceed 11.00m then an Evacuation Warning is issued . If height prediction is to reach/exceed 12.00m then an Evacuation Order is issued
Sequencing of Sequencing of evacuations will replicate the lane closures. evacuation
Evacuation Routes Evacuation is via the local lane network in Whittingham, crossing the New England Highway (A15) and travelling to the Whittingham Public Hall in Range Road.
Evacuation Route Neotsfield and Kanoona Lanes, Whittingham closes around 11.50m Closure Racecourse Lane, Whittingham closes around 12.00m
Residents in this sector have developed a Livestock Evacuation Plan that is enacted Method of Evacuation during times of flooding. Evacuations should reflect the principles outlined in the Evacuation Planning Handbook (Attorney-General’s Department – Australian Emergency Management Institute)
At risk residents will be advised of Evacuation Warnings and Evacuation Orders via warnings issued and/or doorknocks from emergency services personnel advising them of the arrangements.
Self-evacuation by private transport to family/friends or an Evacuation Centre/Assembly Area is the preferred method of withdrawal.
An Evacuation Centre may be established as required.
Evacuation will be conducted by the NSW SES and can be supported by the NSW RFS and NSW Police Force where required.
NSW Police will be responsible for security of evacuated areas. Evacuation Centres/Assembly Areas will be determined by the Welfare Services Evacuation Centre/Assembly Functional Area Coordinator and the NSW SES. Potential locations include: Point The Whittingham Public Hall. Rescue NSW SES will ensure flood rescue assets are present in this sector. These assets will be managed by the NSW SES Incident Controller.
Resupply Resupply is unlikely to be required in this sector
Aircraft Aircraft Management is outlined in 1. Singleton Township. Management
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4.2. WHITTINGHAM SECTOR MAP
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5. SCOTTS FLAT SECTOR
5.1. SCOTTS FLAT RESPONSE ARRANGEMENTS Refer to Volume 2: Hazard and Risk in Singleton for more information about this Sector/Community.
Sector Description The Scotts Flat Sector is bounded by the Hunter River to the east, south and west and by Glendon Road to the north. Scotts Flat Road is the only street in the sector. The sector is outside of the Singleton Levee and is subject to inundation around 11.60m. The sector is completely flood prone and likely to experience high hazard flooding.
Hazard Inundation as a result of riverine flooding from the Hunter River
Flood Affect Low flood island Classification
At risk properties 10 to 12 Total number of properties in Sector 10 to 12
Sector Control Control – The NSW SES Incident Controller will control operations and evacuations in this sector. Command – The NSW SES Incident Controller will remain in command of all NSW SES assets in this sector. Agency Commanders will retain command of their own assets. Coordination – Where coordination of functional areas and support agencies is required, the Local Emergency Operations Controller will perform this role through the activation of and Emergency Operations Centre.
Key Warning Gauge Name AWRC Min Mod Maj Name No. (m) (m) (m) Singleton (Dunolly Bridge) 210001 10.0 11.5 13.0
General Strategy Provision of flood rescue assets to the sector to ensure an appropriate standard of coverage. Undertaking of specific actions in response to heights predicted by the Bureau, supported by Flood Intelligence and Action Cards. Timely issuing of Flood Bulletins that inform the community of likely impacts. Evacuation and registration of at risk population: o Self-evacuation to friends/family outside of the impact area. These community members should still register at the identified Assembly Area. o Establishment of an Assembly Area/Evacuation Centre in consultation with the Welfare Services Functional Area Coordinator. The Whittingham community have developed a Community Action Plan to support the evacuation of livestock to higher ground. This plan is available to the NSW SES.
Key Risks / 11.60m – River breaks banks near 150 Scotts Flat Road. Consequences 12.00m – Scotts Flat Road closed, south of Pankhurst Bridge isolating 10 to 12 houses. 12.20m – Extensive flooding of farmlands around Singleton occurring at this height.
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Information and A full description of strategies to communicate Information and Warnings is outlined in Warnings 1. Singleton Township. Specific to this sector: Evacuation Warnings and Orders are communicated to the community though doorknocking.
Assistance with property protection Property Protection NSW SES will monitor rising flood waters and provide the following assistance for flood-threatened properties where time and resources permit:
Relocation of personal property for at risk locations
Relocation of movable at-risk public assets
Protection of property through sandbagging
Monitoring the integrity of dwellings surrounded by flood waters
Specific requests for assistance are received through the 132 500 centralised call- taking system.
Property protection is limited due to the fast rising and depth of floodwater in this division. Protection of essential infrastructure The Public infrastructure in this sector is limited to the local road and one bridge. Operation of flood mitigation measures There are no flood mitigation measures in this sector. If height prediction is to exceed 11.00m then an Evacuation Warning is issued Evacuation Triggers If height prediction is to reach/exceed 12.00m then an Evacuation Order is issued
Sequencing of Properties with the greatest risk i.e. those closest to the river, are evacuated first. evacuation
Evacuation Routes Scotts Flat Road to Glendon Road
Evacuation Route Scotts Flat Road closes at 12.00m Closure Evacuations should reflect the principles outlined in the Evacuation Planning Method of Evacuation Handbook (Attorney-General’s Department – Australian Emergency Management Institute)
At risk residents will be advised of Evacuation Warnings and Evacuation Orders via warnings issued and/or doorknocks from emergency services personnel advising them of the arrangements.
Self-evacuation by private transport to family/friends or an Evacuation Centre/Assembly Area is the preferred method of withdrawal.
An Evacuation Centre may be established as required.
Evacuation will be conducted by the NSW SES and can be supported by the NSW RFS and NSW Police Force where required.
NSW Police will be responsible for security of evacuated areas.
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Evacuation Centres/Assembly Areas will be determined by the Welfare Services Evacuation Centre/Assembly Functional Area Coordinator and the NSW SES. Potential locations include: Point Scotts Flat RFS Brigade Shed near the corner of Glendon Road and Roughit Lane. Rescue NSW SES will ensure flood rescue assets are present in this sector. These assets will be managed by the NSW SES Incident Controller.
Resupply Resupply is unlikely to be required in this sector
Aircraft Aircraft Management is outlined in 1. Singleton Township. Management
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5.2. SCOTTS FLAT SECTOR MAP
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SINGLETON: NSW SES CARAVAN PARK ARRANGEMENTS
Chapter 3 of Volume 3 (NSW SES Response Arrangements for Singleton of the Singleton LGA Local Flood Plan
Last Update: February 2018
Singleton LGA Local Flood Plan
AUTHORISATION
Singleton NSW SES Caravan Park Arrangements have been prepared by the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) as part of a comprehensive planning process.
Document Issue: V3.3-21102014
February 2018 Vol 3, Ch 3: Singleton NSW SES Caravan Park Arrangements Page 1
Singleton LGA Local Flood Plan
CONTENTS
AUTHORISATION ...... 1 CONTENTS ...... 2 LIST OF TABLES ...... 2 1 ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE EVACUATION OF CARAVAN PARKS AND THE RELOCATION OF MOVABLE DWELLINGS ...... 3
General ...... 3 Advising Procedures ...... 3 Evacuation of Occupants and Relocation of Moveable Dwellings ...... 4 Return of Occupants and Moveable Dwellings ...... 4 LIST OF REFERENCES ...... 7
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Caravan Parks at risk of Inundation from Flooding...... 6
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Singleton LGA Local Flood Plan
1 ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE EVACUATION OF CARAVAN PARKS AND THE RELOCATION OF MOVABLE DWELLINGS
GENERAL
1.1.1 The following caravan parks are flood liable: a. Singleton Caracourt Caravan Park b. Wyland Caravan Park 1.1.2 For more information on individual caravan parks see Table 1 at the end of this Chapter.
ADVISING PROCEDURES
1.2.1 Caravan Park proprietors will ensure that the owners and occupiers of movable dwellings are: a. Made aware that the caravan park is flood liable by: . Providing a written notice to occupiers taking up residence. The notice will indicate that the caravan park is liable to flooding and designate the location of flood liable land within the park (1). . Displaying this notice and the emergency arrangements for the Caravan Park prominently in the park. b. Made aware that if they are expecting to be absent for extended periods, they should: . Provide the manager of the caravan park with a contact address and telephone number in case of an emergency. . Leave any movable dwelling in a condition allowing it to be relocated in an emergency (i.e.: should ensure that the wheels, axles and draw bar of the caravans are not removed, and are maintained in proper working order). c. Informed of Flood Warning Information. At this time, occupiers will be advised to: . Ensure that they have spare batteries for their radios. . Listen to a local radio station for updated flood information. . Prepare for evacuation and movable dwelling relocation. 1.2.2 The NSW SES Incident Controller will ensure that the managers of caravan parks are advised of Flood Information (described in Volume 1 of the Singleton Local Flood Plan).
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EVACUATION OF OCCUPANTS AND RELOCATION OF MOVEABLE DWELLINGS
1.3.1 When an evacuation order is given caravan park occupants should follow the flood evacuation procedures for the park under the direction of the caravan park management. This should include advice to: a. Isolate power to moveable dwellings. b. Collect personal papers, medicines, a change of clothing, toiletries and bedclothes. c. Lift the other contents in any remaining dwellings as high as possible. d. Move to friends, relatives or a designated evacuation centre if they have their own transport, or move to the caravan office to await transport. e. If undertaking self-managed evacuation, register their movements with the caravan park management upon leaving the park. 1.3.2 Where possible, movable dwellings that can be moved will be relocated by their owners. Park managers will arrange for the relocation of movable dwellings as required. Vans are to be moved to the locations outlined in Tables 1 at the end of this Chapter. 1.3.3 Caravan park managers will: a. Secure any movable dwellings that are not able to be relocated to prevent floatation. b. Ensure that their caravan park is capable of being evacuated in a timely and safe manner. c. Advise the NSW SES Incident Controller of: . The number of people requiring transport. . Details of any medical evacuations required. . Whether additional assistance is required to effect the evacuation. d. Check that all residents and visitors are accounted for. e. Inform the NSW SES Singleton Local Controller when the evacuation of the caravan park has been completed. f. Provide the NSW SES Incident Controller with a register of people that have been evacuated.
RETURN OF OCCUPANTS AND MOVEABLE DWELLINGS
1.4.1 The NSW SES Incident Controller, using council resources as necessary, will advise when it is safe for the caravan parks to be re-occupied. 1.4.2 Moveable dwellings will be returned back to the caravan park(s) by owners or by vehicles and drivers arranged by the park managers.
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1.4.3 Council and NSW SES personnel may assist by request where resources are available. 1.4.4 Where caravan parks have been inundated by floodwater, they may only be inhabited again once the appropriate authorities have confirmed that safe power, water and sewerage services are available and that key infrastructure is undamaged or has been repaired.
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Table 1: Caravan Parks at risk of Inundation from Flooding.
Name/Location/Sector/Sites Risk Evacuation route Evacuation route Moveable Evacuation centre closure dwelling relocation location
Singleton Caracourt Caravan Park Inundation will occur around . Up to 12.30m via New England New England High Likely Evacuation Centres at Corner of Bridgeman Road and New 13.00m Highway and White Avenue to Highway (A15) ground in Singleton Heights are England Highway (A15), Dunolly . Evacuation Warning at Singleton Heights. north closes Singleton . Singleton Diggers, around 12.30m. Heights 11.00m and . After 12.30m and up to Dorsman Drive 14.20m via New England (Combo and Dunolly Sector) . Evacuation Order if . Singleton Heights flood level to reach or Highway, John Street, Queen Alternative route Sports Centre, 105 54 sites consisting of exceed 13.00m Street, over Redbournberry via Queen Street Blaxland Avenue . 40 on-site cabins/caravans, Bridge to Gresford Road, closes around . Singleton Heights Dyrring Road, Pioneer Road, . 8 sites for tourist caravans and 14.20m Public School, 1 - 13 Low flood island Bridgeman Road and Blaxland Dorsman Drive . 6 sites for tents Avenue to Singleton Heights
Wyland Caravan Park Inundation will occur around Putty/Glenridding Roads and high New England High Likely Evacuation Centres at 20 Carrington Street, Glenridding 13.00m level bridge into John Street, then Highway (A15) ground in Singleton Heights are north closes Singleton . Evacuation Warning at . Up to 12.30m via Campbell . Singleton Diggers, 11.00m and Street, New England Highway around 12.30m. Heights Dorsman Drive (Glenridding Sector) . Evacuation Order if and White Avenue to . Singleton Heights 50 sites consisting of flood level to reach or Singleton Heights. Alternative route Sports Centre, 105 . 12 cabins, exceed 13.00m . After 12.30m and up to via Queen Street Blaxland Avenue . 28 on-site caravans and 14.20m continue along John closes around . Singleton Heights Street, Queen Street over 14.20m . 10 sites for tourist caravans Low flood island. Public School, 1 - 13 Redbournberry Bridge to Dorsman Drive Ten permanent residents Gresford Road, Dyrring Road,
Pioneer Road, Bridgeman Road and Blaxland Avenue to Singleton Heights
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LIST OF REFERENCES
1. NSW Government. Local Government (Manufactured Home Estates, Caravan Parks, Camping Grounds and Moveable Dwellings) Regulation 2005 Part 3 Division 3 Subdivision 7 Clause 123. 2005.
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