For emergency assistance during a flood, storm or tsunami, call NSW SES on 132 500   In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
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Local information

Ballina

Suburb
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Local Government Area
Ballina
River catchments
Richmond River
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Ballina

The Ballina Local Government Area (LGA) is located on the North East Coast of NSW. The main township  of Ballina is located at the mouth of the Richmond River. The Ballina LGA is affected by flooding caused by a number of reasons including:

  • Overtopping of the Richmond River and local creeks (Maguires, Emigrant, and North Creeks)
  • Heavy localised rainfall causing flash floods
  • Elevated ocean levels and large swells from cyclones or low-pressure systems

Flooding is further complicated by tidal conditions, with higher flood levels occurring if the peak coincides with high tide. In floods larger than the 1% AEP, much of Central Ballina would be inundated. While the Richmond River contributes to flooding in lower-lying areas of Ballina, the greater risk comes from the river's tributaries, North Creek and Emigrant Creek.

The local information page provides valuable resources for your Local Government Area (LGA). You can explore flood information for your local river catchment through Local Flood Insights, access local flood plans and guides, and connect with local councils and NSW SES units.

Ballina CBD

Ballina CBD is affected by tidal flooding from the Richmond River on extreme high tides of 1.8 m or more. Salt water is likely to affect some streets in the Ballina CBD, in particular Tamar Street.

Ballina North and Cumbalum

Low lying areas, including local roads, in North Ballina and Cumbalum area can be affected by Flash flooding. Floodwater can cover the Tamarind Drive from north of Ballina and Cumbalum to and including the interchange roundabout under the M1 highway.

Roads that may be affected include North Creek Road, Tamarind Drive Cumbalum, Southern Cross Drive, Roseville Lane and Cumbalum Interchange.

Teven and Tintenbar

Flash flooding affects the Teven Road, from the Bruxner Highway at West Ballina through to Teven.

Roads that are commonly affected by flooding include:

  • Maguire’s Creek causeway (near Teven Golf Course) can be covered with fast flowing water very quickly
  • Friday Hut Road at Kirkland’s crossing and Friday Hut Road at Emigrant crossing
  • Houghlahans Creek Road Causeways
  • Old Bangalow Road to George Street Tintenbar Pearces Creek Hall Road at Pearces Creek
  • Old Bangalow Road downstream from Tintenbar Road to Tamarind Drive
  • Watsons Lane at Emigrant Creek
  • Nashua Road at Skinners Creek
  • Fernleigh Road near junction with Tintenbar Road
  • Old Bangalow Road is often cut even with extreme tides alongside the creek

West Ballina

Low lying roads in the West Ballina area can be affected by flash flooding. This is particularly an issue when flash flooding combines with salt water from extreme high tides. Roads that are affected include sections of River Street, Riverside Drive, Burns Point Road, Uralba Road, Uralba.

Local Flood Insights

The Local Flood Insights tool offers an overview of flood-prone areas, historic flood events, and modelled flood risks through detailed maps, data and community stories. This website-based platform combines flood inundation mapping, photos and personal accounts from local residents about the impacts of past floods and ways to prepare for future floods.

This information is useful to community members, travellers, or anyone wanting to learn more about local flooding. Explore NSW SES Local Flood Insights to make informed decisions about flood safety and preparedness.

Select a river catchment below to view the Local Flood Insight for each corresponding catchment area. To see all catchment areas, visit the Local Flood Insights page.

Local SES units

Ballina Unit

Angels Beach Drive , Ballina, NSW 2478

Latest News

Groupf of NSW SES members being awared for the North East Zone Awards
News
The heroics of saving a mother and daughter from a submerged vehicle in floodwater has earnt NSW SES retired Ballina Unit Volunteer Christopher Priester, a Commissioner’s Commendation of Courage.
Media release
News
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is urging residents in the North Coast, Coffs Coast and Northern Rivers to prepare for severe storms, as the risk of heavy rain, flash flooding and hail increases throughout this evening.
NSW SES volunteers receiving bravery awards at the North Eastern Zone ceremony
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NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has honoured exceptional bravery and commitment of North Eastern volunteers who have worked tirelessly to keep our communities safe in times of crisis.