SOPHIE MEETS WITH LOCALS TO DISCUSS FLOODS

15-February-2011

Sophie Mirabella MP, Federal Member for Indi has toured flood affected areas of North East Victoria today, talking to locals in Whorouly and Barwidgee Creek about the affects of recent floods and discussing potential solutions.

“Just like the bushfires, the floods are another example of local knowledge being important in the management of natural resources,” Mrs Mirabella said.

“Understandably, people are very distressed and just want a common sense approach to the management of our waterways. Years of neglect from State Labor Governments have taken their toll.”

Mrs Mirabella noted that more consideration needs to be given to the overall management of local river systems.

“There are several issues of concern regarding water management, flood mitigation and soil erosion and I look forward to working with my State colleagues on resolving local problems and expect relevant Government agencies will fully cooperate.

Mrs Mirabella also renewed calls for the expansion of Lake Buffalo.

“Time and time again, the importance of dams as a flood mitigation strategy is raised and must be considered. The Coalition has created a task force to investigate the use of dams to mitigate flood risks and I will be raising the prospect of a „bigger Buffalo‟ with my parliamentary colleagues in the coming weeks,” Mrs Mirabella concluded.