Moorabool Shire Council

Moorabool Shire has a history of flooding including flooding from rivers and creeks overflowingafter prolonged rainfall (riverine) and also to flash flooding after high intensity rainfall often associated with thunderstorms.

Bacchus Marsh experienced a significant flood event in November 1995 when the Werribee River broke its banks, flooding low lying parts of the town and surrounding farmland.

More recently, Bacchus Marsh suffered flash flooding five times in 2010-2011 following local heavy rain, causing extensive damage.

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

Are you at risk of flood?

Bacchus March is susceptible to flooding from rivers and creeks overflowing after prolonged rainfall (riverine flooding) and also to flash flooding after high intensity rainfall often associated with thunderstorms.

Riverine flooding in Bacchus Marsh is caused by flooding of the Werribee River. If the Lerderderg River floods at the same time as the Werribee River, then flood heights and impacts in Bacchus Marsh will be much greater.

In general, prolonged heavy rainfall over 12 hours or more will cause riverine flooding in Bacchus Marsh. Overflow from Pykes Creek Reservoir, upstream of Bacchus Marsh, can also increase flooding of the Werribee River.

During large riverine flood events, extensive flooding could occur in Bacchus Marsh, including Maddingley, the CBD, the Avenue of Honour and Woolpack Road areas. The roads to Werribee and Geelong may also be affected.

Flooding tends to be deeper south of the Werribee River. Flash flooding in Bacchus Marsh typically affects urban areas in Bacchus Marsh, Darley and Maddingley. This generally results from short duration, high intensity rainfall of approximately 15-20 millimetres in 30 minutes. There are many low-lying areas which may be subject to flash flooding.