Alpine Shire Council

Alpine Shire Council has a history of flooding including a significant flood
event in October 1993 which impacted the townships of Bright, Harrietville, Kiewa Valley, Myrtleford and vast rural areas, resulting in extensive damage to homes, infrastructure and the community. Significant flood events also occurred in 1998, 2010 and to a lesser extent, 2016.

Flooding usually occurs as a result of moderate to heavy rainfall across the municipality causing breaching of the Ovens and Kiewa Rivers. The onset of flooding is usually rapid due to the steep slopes of the surrounding ranges and often causes isolation due to closure of the Great Alpine Road.

The lead time to respond to a flood event in the Alpine Shire may be limited. All households and businesses at risk of flooding should beware of their specific flood risk and develop an emergency plan.

Households and business should refer to the Myrtleford Local Flood Guide (available in English and Italian) or Municipal Flood Emergency Plan for more information. 

Are you at risk of flood?

In Myrtleford, flooding is usually riverine flooding, caused when the Ovens River overflows, and excess water is carried through town by a floodwater ‘breakout’ into Happy Valley Creek.

Flooding usually affects the town for 2-4 days but this can vary depending on how widespread and long-lasting the rainfall is and which direction the floodwater is coming from. The 1993 flood which measured 7.1 metres at the Ovens River (Eurobin) Gauge is the largest flood on record.

Since 1993, flood mitigation works have been undertaken including the construction of a diversion channel. This channel is designed to divert floodwater and reduce impact during an Ovens River breakaway.

Floodwater is diverted from Happy Valley Creek (at the Whalleys Lane culverts) back into the Ovens River near the end of Gerraty’s Lane. This channel helped reduce the impact of the 2010 flood on the town, but did not completely save it from flooding.

With the changeable nature of flooding in Myrtleford, it is important to watch conditions around you. Check rainfall, snow melt and river conditions and stay updated by tuning into local radio.