Clean up from recent storm event continues

Published on 21 December 2023

Council is continuing clean-up of the shire following the storm event on Wednesday 13 December.

Heavy rain and strong winds impacted Barwon Downs and surrounding areas of Colac Otway Shire, bringing down trees and branches on public roads and private property.

Acting General Manager Infrastructure and Operations Paula Gardiner said Council’s Services and Operations staff continue work to clear the debris.

“Since last Wednesday, Council staff have been working to remove fallen trees and branches from roads throughout the shire.

“Due to the extent of the damage caused, we’ll be cutting, clearing and chipping fallen trees and branches for a number of weeks to come.

“The majority of roads affected were in the Barwon Downs region, including Taylors, McLaughlins, Mahers, Delaneys, McNamas, James Road and Wickhams Lane,” Ms Gardiner said.

The local SES volunteers also responded to multiple requests following the storm.

“Council is aware that local SES crews responded to a range of requests from residents for assistance at private properties that were also impacted significantly, with multiple large, established trees uprooted in the storm,” Ms Gardiner said.

“We acknowledge loss of large and significant trees in the shire, whether on public or private property, can be difficult for members of the community.

“Council would like to thank the community for supporting one another, the SES volunteers, Council staff and other agencies for their efforts in keeping our community safe in response to the incident.”

If any resident is concerned the damage caused in the storm has created any issues of additional bushfire risk, please contact Council fire officers on 5232 9400 for advice.