The Newcastle Local Government Area encompasses the suburbs of Hexham and Sandgate, situated along the New England Highway and the Hunter River. Predominantly industrial, the area also includes residential properties. Sandgate marks the convergence of Hexham Swamp and the Hunter River, making it susceptible to flooding. Flood impacts primarily affect the New England Highway and Maitland Road, with eastbound lanes first affected. In significant events, Hexham experiences inundation of up to several metres, as seen in the 1955 flood where certain areas were submerged by around 3 metres. While flooding is common, often occurring with high tides, its impact is typically minimal, though in more severe cases, the highway may be temporarily closed depending on river levels.
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.
Hexham and Sandgate
Hexham and Sandgate are prone to flooding, particularly in major events. The area, mostly industrial with some residential properties, is impacted by floodwaters that first affect the eastbound lanes of the highway and Maitland Road. In significant floods, such as those with a 1% AEP or similar to the 1955 event, Hexham can experience overbank inundation of 0.5 to 1.0 meters, leading to road closures and deep flooding. Notably, during the 1955 flood, the area around the McDonald's was submerged by approximately 3 meters. While minor flooding often occurs with high tides, causing nuisance impacts, more severe events have led to highway closures and substantial disruption.
Beresfield
Beresfield is located on a low ridge rising out of the surrounding floodplain and wetlands of the Hunter River and is prone to flooding due to its location near the confluence of river and its tributaries. Significant floods have been recorded in 1955, 1971, and 2015, with the potential for even larger events. In major floods, low-lying areas of Beresfield can become isolated, leading to road closures and evacuation needs. Localised flooding from stormwater overflow and riverine flooding exacerbates the risk, affecting residential and commercial properties. Flash flooding from nearby creeks can also contribute to rapid and severe inundation, requiring prompt response and evacuation measures.
Wallsend
Wallsend is a western suburb of Newcastle, New South Wales, and it is split between the local government areas of City of Newcastle and City of Lake Macquarie. It is prone to significant flooding, particularly from the Ironbark Creek, which flows through the area. Major flood events in 2007 and 2015 have highlighted the suburb's vulnerability, with floodwaters inundating homes and businesses, and causing road closures. Flash flooding is a major concern in Wallsend due to the steep terrain and rapid runoff during heavy rainfall. Low-lying areas, particularly around Nelson Street, can become quickly inundated, isolating parts of the community and necessitating evacuations. Flood risks are exacerbated by stormwater overflow and the potential for even larger flood events in the future.