New SES unit push for future floods

By Lia Bichel and Bridget Cook
THE City of Casey has spent more than $800,000 to assist with recovery and prevention works in the wake of the floods last year.
The money has been used for a range of works including emergency co-ordination, recovery and protection works and repairs to roads, infrastructure and drains, City of Casey Director of Emergency Management Greg Wood said.
The floods prompted the council to advocate for a number of improvements including another SES unit in the area and better drainage systems.
“Since the floods, the City of Casey has actively engaged Melbourne Water seeking improvements to the capacity of the drainage system in Casey,” Mr Wood said.
“In early 2011, residents raised concerns regarding there being only one Victorian State Emergency Service (VICSES) in the City of Casey.
“In response, council is advocating to the Victorian State Government to provide funding to establish an additional VICSES Unit in the south of the City of Casey.
“The initial response from the State Government has been encouraging.”
The council also received funding from the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements which they have allocated to Connections Uniting Care which provides support to families affected by the floods.
The Casey Flood Support Group, which was set up following the deluge, have also been offering assistance to about 45 flood affected residents.
Group member Michele Halsall said the group offered a range of services including guest speakers, referrals to government agencies and counseling. Ms Halsall said while most of the clean-up was complete, many families were still suffering from the aftermath.
“Physical, mental and financial issues are still problems,” Ms Halsall said.
“Some families have still not moved back in (to their homes), and as they move back in and open boxes from storage, they are finding that mould has gone through their things, and they have to throw them out.
“From our group, at least one house has been demolished and one doesn’t have floors,” she said.
Ms Halsall believes Casey Council and the State Government could do more to alleviate some of the problems families face.
“The group hopes to continue pushing for improvements in drainage at least,” Ms Halsall said.
Anyone wanting to learn more about the support group can contact Michele Halsall on 0413 390 533 or through email at caseyfloods@hotmail.com.