Murwillumbah’s flood defence system is set to be strengthened, with work underway to upgrade stormwater pumps at Lavender Creek.
Funded through the Albanese Government’s $150 million Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP), and delivered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority, the $5.6 million project will see a new pump station built that is offset from the existing creek.
The new structure will have the capacity to house two new flood pumps with sump dividers and flow-straightening bays to diminish the effects of non-uniform flow, as well as screening to stop debris buildup. The two new flood pumps will be able to pump 8m3 per second.
New electrical switchboard and controls, communications and telemetry will also be installed on an elevated platform to avoid the effects of future flood events.
This initiative is part of six flood mitigation upgrades in Murwillumbah, valued at $16 million in combined funding, under the NRRRP including:
- new pump system behind Dorothy/William Street
- new pump station on George Street
- new pump station at Lavender Creek
- upgrades to Wharf Street pump stations
- modification works at Alma Street
- earthworks at Quarry Road.
“This project is one of several major flood mitigation upgrades being delivered across Murwillumbah and demonstrates the commitment of all levels of government to building a safer and more resilient community,” said Tweed Shire Council Mayor, Chris Cherry.
“Together, these projects will help improve the performance of the town’s flood defence system and support Council’s ongoing efforts to reduce flood impacts wherever possible.
“We know there is no single solution to flooding, but investments like this are an important step towards making our community more resilient in the future.”
NSW Minister for Recovery and Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin said projects like this show what can be achieved when Federal, State, and local governments work hand-in-hand.
“By aligning our efforts across all three levels, we are ensuring critical flood mitigation projects move from planning to reality across the Northern Rivers,” she said.
“Local councils shouldn’t have to tackle the immense challenge of disaster resilience alone. Through combined state and federal investment, we are equipping Tweed Shire Council with the funding and support needed to deliver essential infrastructure that safeguards our region for the long term.”
Work is expected to be completed on Lavender Creek pump station in February 2027 weather permitting.
