News

NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) is continuing its Georges River has flooded before, it will happen again campaign, by working with locals to stress the need for people who live and work in the area to be aware of their flood risks.

Running since 18 June, the campaign advocates for communities along the Georges River to understand their risks and make the necessary steps to be prepared.

To help drive the message further, NSW SES, with support from its Principal Partner NRMA Insurance, has produced a series of videos with local volunteers and community members sharing their experiences of floods and stressing the need for others to be flood aware.

Commissioner Carlene York said the videos are aimed at connecting communities with real experiences and their local NSW SES volunteers.

“The river has a long history of flooding, so it’s important we do what we can to raise awareness and work with communities to make sure they are prepared,” Commissioner York said.

“Each of the six videos, while touching on a different story from local people, share useful information and links to resources that people can use to be prepared and aware.

“We have also developed FloodSafe tips in 25 different languages to ensure we are reaching everyone,” she said.

NRMA Insurance Executive General Manager Direct Claims, Luke Gallagher, said the insurer is proud to partner with NSW SES on the campaign.

“We hope it will help communities better understand their level of risk and the practical steps they can take now to help protect themselves from flooding, which can ultimately save lives and property.”

Zone Commander for Metropolitan Sydney, Chief Superintendent Greg Swindells, added while communities living along the river may have experienced minor flooding previously, floods can potentially get much worse.

“Floods can vary and that’s why it is important community members know their risks no matter the size of flood.

“To help us better understand what communities know about floods, we are calling on people living in the area to complete our online survey,” he said.