By Callum Ludwig
Many Victorians will be taking the extended long weekend as a great opportunity to get away to their favourite camping haunts for the start of spring.
However, with poor weather conditions predicted and potential flooding concerns around the Yarra Ranges and other popular camping getaways like the Murray River, holidaymakers are advised to be aware and prepared.
Unit Controller at Healesville SES Andrew Worley said the most important thing is to be prepared.
“People who plan and prepare for emergencies are going to reduce the impact of the emergency, if something happens, you have to act quickly. If you plan ahead, you can have the right information and equipment with you to do that,” he said.
“In our area, we have quite a lot of creeks and rivers that are known to be subject to flooding, particularly the Yarra River and the Watts River, but there are a number of smaller streams and creeks that are also likely to flood and some of them are near camping grounds and holiday parks.”
VICSES recommends a number of precautions for campers:
Choose camping sites that are under a clear sky, never camp under trees or branches.
Camp on higher ground away from creeks, rivers, streams, and other waterways and check the local flood guide.
Find out from the camping ground or holiday park what their emergency plan is.
Set a watch zone to include your camp location on the VicEmergency app so you receive warnings.
If a flood warning is issued, follow the advice within the warning and leave before the water starts to rise.
Mr Worley said it is important to stay away from floodwater because you never know what’s inside.
“There could be broken glass or sewerage, or it could be very deep or fast moving underneath and carries a risk of being swept away,” he said.
“It’s very important because we’re expecting a wet spring and even summer and there’s always going to be the risk of either flash flooding, or riverine flooding. If you’re in an unfamiliar location, very important to gather information on what the flood risk is.”
VICSES advises everyone to tell someone their plans, including where you are going and when they expect to return and consider packing an emergency kit and they can watch this video to find out what to include: https://vimeo.com/595111060
Parks Victoria Acting Executive Director Operations Jo Richards said to always check the Parks Victoria website for the latest information on closures before heading out.
“If you’re heading into nature over the long weekend, be mindful that when rivers like the Yarra or the Murray are in flood, some access roads and campsites can be closed. We don’t want rain to dampen your enthusiasm for nature but planning appropriately for storm and flood conditions will mean a safer and more enjoyable time,” she said.
“We have a range of safety tips and guides on our website and YouTube channel – always remember that the natural environment can be unpredictable and a bit of planning and foresight can make all the difference.”
If you’re heading into nature over the long weekend check the Parks Victoria website for the latest information on closures and changed conditions – www.parks.vic.gov.au/get-into-nature/safety-in-nature/changed-conditions-and-closures
Where rivers are in flood, some roads may need to be closed – check the Parks Victoria website for the latest information – www.parks.vic.gov.au/get-into-nature/safety-in-nature/seasonal-road-closures
Parks Victoria’s YouTube channel includes safety hints and guides for campers – www.youtube.com/user/ParksVictoria/videos
