Published on 07 March 2025
Murrindindi Shire Council and its Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee (MEMPC) welcome Transport Victoria’s installation of ‘Road Subject to Flooding’ signs and ‘Depth of Water’ markers on the Goulburn Valley Highway near Cathkin, an area that floods two to three times a year. This follows long-standing advocacy by local agencies to improve road safety in flood-prone areas. While a simple addition, these markers provide critical real-time information, helping drivers and emergency service agencies assess floodwater depths in this 100 km/hr zone to make safer decisions. In the past, some motorists have underestimated the depth of floodwater in this area, leading to stranded vehicles and emergency rescues. These new markers aim to prevent such incidents and reduce the risk to volunteer responders. Transport Victoria has installed flood markers between Ridds Road and the eastern entrance to Molesworth, Council urges all motorists to follow road safety advice and never drive through floodwaters. Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher commented, “This is a great outcome for our community and a testament to the dedication of our emergency management teams. These markers will help prevent accidents, protect our volunteer responders, and, most importantly, save lives. Council is pleased that it’s advocacy on behalf of the community was supported by the Roads and Road Safety Minister. I want to thank everyone involved for their persistence and commitment to making our roads safer.” SES Unit Controller, Peter Weeks stated, “The Goulburn Valley Highway is often subject to flooding between Cathkin and Home Creek by the Home Creek breaking its banks, following heavy rain and storm events. Over the years, Alexandra SES has performed numerous rescues on this section of the highway, due to road users entering floodwater unaware of the depth and becoming stranded. One some occasions, we have seen the water depth well over 1 m across the highway. The new ‘Road Subject to Flooding’ warning signs and depth gauges are a welcome addition and road safety feature on this busy highway. Road users are reminded to never drive, ride or walk through flood water. Don’t enter water that is over 150mm deep, as you can be washed away, become stranded, and you cannot see whether the road or pavement has been washed away ahead.” For more information about staying safe during emergencies, visit Emergencies.