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

Local information

Byron

Suburb
Not set
Local Government Area
Byron
River catchments
Brunswick River
Richmond River
Tweed River
Use the search below to set or change your suburb

Byron

The Byron Shire Local Government Area (LGA) is located in the Northern Rivers area of New South Wales. The area is affected by both riverine and flash flooding which can cause devastating over floor flooding in some locations and road closures due to flash flooding across low lying roads and crossings.

The Brunswick River is the main river system in the Byron LGA with a number of smaller tributaries such as Lacks Creek and Marshalls Creek feeding into it which can contribute to significant flooding in certain areas.

Mullumbimby

Mullumbimby, a town of around 4,000 people in the Brunswick Valley, Northern Rivers, NSW, is situated where the Brunswick River meets Mullumbimby Creek. Upstream, streams are confined to their channels, but downstream, extensive floodplains exist. Tidal influence can impact flood heights, with rising tides holding water back and causing levels to rise, while ebbing tides cause rapid falls. Flood height records have been kept since 1954, and the town has experienced several major floods throughout its history.

Billinudgel and Ocean Shores

Located in the Brunswick Valley, a flash flood catchment, Billinudgel has experienced major floods in 1987, 2003, 2005, 2012, and 2017, with the potential for even higher floods. The area's complex flood behaviour is due to multiple creeks and waterways, including Yelgun Creek in Tweed Shire and Lacks and Marshalls Creeks in Byron Shire. Lacks Creek flows through Middle Pocket, joining Marshalls Creek west of Billinudgel, which then flows through The Pocket and Billinudgel before joining the Brunswick River. Flooding can begin in Billinudgel at the western end of Wilfred Street, even below minor flood levels.

Downstream, the floodplain extends through Ocean Shores. Localised heavy rainfall can cause flash flooding and road closures, affecting only a few low-lying streets such as Balemo Drive, Rajah Road, and the Water Lily Park area, with water backing up around the Ocean Shores Golf Course.

South Golden Beach and New Brighton

South Golden Beach and New Brighton are also in a complex flood area due to the same creek systems. The floodplain spreads out through these areas, and localised heavy rainfall can cause flash flooding and road closures. South Golden Beach is protected by a levee to a height of 4.2m, but heavy rainfall can cause water to pond behind it. Low-lying areas of New Brighton are prone to flooding in moderate to major events.

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

Mullumbimby Unit

33 Coolamon Scenic Drive , Mullumbimby, NSW 2482

Latest News

News
As Ex Tropical Cyclone Alfred continues to weaken and Lismore residents start to return home, the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) urges communities to remain vigilant and not become complacent. 
Murwillumbah Flood Rescue team standing in a group for a briefing
News
Major flooding has isolated 1800 people as evacuation routes have been cut, as ex Tropical Cyclone continues to bring heavy rain to northern NSW.
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.