What is a flood study?

    A flood study is a technical project that identifies flood behaviour such as depth, velocity and extent across the floodplain for a wide range of flood eventsIt aims to provide an understanding of the full range of flood behaviour and consequences in the study area. It involves consideration of the local flood history, available flood data, and the development of hydrologic (rainfall and runoff estimations) and hydraulic (motion of stormwater runoff) models. Where possible, models are calibrated and verified against historic flood events and then extrapolated to estimate the full range of potential flood events.

    What area is the study covering?

    Berry, a small township in the Shoalhaven LGA, and its surrounding areas within the Broughton Creek catchment are covered by what is referred to as the Study AreaThe study area is located approximately 143 km south of Sydney and includes the nearby village of Bundewallah. 

    Broughton Creek and its tributaries originate in the ranges north and west of Berry, flow through forested and agricultural land use, and discharges into the Lower Shoalhaven River downstream of Nowra. Broughton Creeks main tributaries are Broughton Mill Creek, Bundewallah Creek, Connollys Creek, and Town Creek. Broughton Mill Creek flows south of Bundewallah Creek into Broughton Creek. Connollys Creek enters Bundewallah Creek upstream of Broughton Mill Creek. These creeks are the main sources of flooding in Berry. Town Creek flows west to east through the Berry town centre near Princess Street before joining Broughton Mill CreekThe study area included in this investigation is illustrated on the locality map.


     

    How will this study impact me?

    The objective of this study is to improve understanding of flood behaviour and impacts, and better inform management of flood risk in the study area in consideration of the available information, and relevant standards and guidelines.  

    The Flood Study outcome may also form the basis for a future review of the Broughton Creek Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan, which will include identification and analysis of flood risk and floodplain risk management options assessment.