The Richmond River is the main river in the Richmond Valley Local Government Area (LGA) and includes the area upstream of Casino down through to the village of Broadwater. The area includes the rural towns and villages of Casino, Coraki, Woodburn, Bungawalbin and Broadwater.
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.
Casino
Casino, in the Richmond Valley, has a history of flooding but has only seen a few significant floods exceeding 15.3 metres affecting the CBD. The river forms a gorge with high banks and an 8-metre drop in the riverbed. During major floods, water often bypasses the town via a southern flow path, with the downstream area flattening into a floodplain. A level of 17.5 metres on the Casino Gauge would flood most of the township and CBD, affecting areas where water backs up in gullies. Flooding downstream begins at 16.5 metres, impacting rural areas around Irvington and Tatham and possibly cutting off access to Coraki and Lismore.
Coraki
Coraki, a historic town at the confluence of the Richmond and Wilson Rivers, frequently floods. After merging with the Wilson River, the Richmond River widens significantly downstream. Major floods can cross the main street and inundate low-lying areas, potentially isolating the town until waters recede. The Bungawalbin Creek system can also cause extensive rural flooding.
Woodburn
Located at the junction of the Richmond River and Rocky Mouth Creek, Woodburn’s homes are mostly raised on stilts. Major floods typically affect shops, business premises, and lower levels of homes. Surrounding rural areas may flood earlier, with 2 to 3 days' notice usually provided.
Bungawalbin
Bungawalbin's rural areas can flood once the Boggy Creek levee overtops, with major floods potentially isolating the area for 1 to 2 weeks. Flooding in Coraki and Woodburn could make Bora Ridge an island.
Broadwater
Broadwater faces flooding from both the Richmond River and local catchments. The Wilson River breaking its banks upstream of Coraki can flood areas across the river from Broadwater. Richmond River flood warnings usually provide 3-4 days' notice, while local catchment flooding can occur within hours. Major flooding may isolate Broadwater and nearby rural areas.