Business in the Macleay

Commercial flood damage Kempsey 2001. Gissing, A. (2002) presented at the 42nd Annual Conference of the Floodplain Management Authorities of NSW, Kempsey

The central business district of Kempsey was flooded on Saturday the 10th of March 2001, resulting in damage to 94 businesses. Total direct damage amounted to $2.5 million averaging $28,000 per business. Stage-damage analysis found damage data to be variable and uncertain. Fitted curves were different to previous loss estimation models and were log normal in shape indicating that marginal damage decreases as stage height increases. Coefficients of determination indicated a very weak relationship between direct damage and over floor depth.

The combination of direct and indirect damages resulted in prolonged hardship for 30% of businesses. Lost sales amounted to approximately $2 million and a net profit loss of $200,000.

Warning systems were effective in reducing tangible and intangible damage. Official warning coverage was mixed with radio stated as the most effective source of information about the flooding. Recipient satisfaction was low resulting from the perceived need by businesses for personal warnings, characterised by a high degree of clarity and accuracy.

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