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Project Highlight: Wimmera Rock Chute Modelling

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 02:03:33 GMT

Hydraulic modelling to guide rock chute stabilisation across the Wimmera region.

Wimmera Rock Chute Modelling

Hydraulic modelling of waterways in the Wimmera region to inform the design of resilient rock chute stabilisation structures.

Environmental Project

Our client was Geomorphe

Location - Wimmera Region, VIC

Cumulus Engineering supported Geomorphe in delivering detailed hydraulic modelling for several waterways across the Wimmera region where rock chute stabilisation was proposed. Using industry-standard TUFLOW modelling, our team developed five hydraulic models covering seven features, including both steady-state and rain-on-grid simulations. The models assessed flow behaviour, water levels, velocities, and bed shear stress, providing valuable insights to inform the design of effective and resilient rock chute structures by Geomorphe. By combining precise survey data, LiDAR, and adaptive modelling approaches, we ensured robust results that support practical design solutions and long-term waterway stability.

Advanced modelling and practical expertise that ensure robust results that support practical design solutions and waterway stability.

The Wimmera Rock Chute is located in the upper Wimmera catchment

Wimmera Rock Chute site

Author

Sarah Hollis

Senior Engineer

Project Highlight: South Coree BESS Flood Impact Assessment

Sat, 27 Sep 2025 02:03:33 GMT

Supporting safe and sustainable energy infrastructure through expert flood assessment.

South Coree BESS

Flood Impact Assessment

Assessment of flood impacts for the South Coree Battery Energy Storage System to ensure safe, compliant, and climate-resilient development.

Renewables

Our client was NGH Consulting

Location - South Coree, NSW

Cumulus Engineering supported NGH Consulting with a Flood Impact Assessment for the proposed South Coree Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) near Finley, NSW. As the project is classified a State Significant Development, the assessment was required to address the Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs) set by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. This included demonstrating compliance with NSW Flood Risk Management Manual (2023) principles, modelling a full suite of flood events (5%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.2% AEP and PMF), and considering the effects of climate change on rainfall and flood behaviour.

Our role was to characterise existing overland flow patterns, assess the potential impacts of the proposed development (including raised pads, internal roads, and noise walls), and ensure there were no detrimental changes to flood risk for surrounding land or infrastructure. The work involved consultation with Berrigan Shire Council and NSW SES to confirm that the development would be consistent with regional floodplain management practices and emergency planning arrangements. This assessment provides a robust technical foundation to support the project’s planning approval and ensures the BESS can be delivered safely, responsibly, and in line with state policy requirements.

Advanced flood modelling confirms the BESS site manages flood risk effectively, safeguarding surrounding land and infrastructure.

The BESS site is in south Coree, NSW

Author

Sarah Hollis

Senior Engineer

Project Highlight: Rockhampton Sports Precinct Flood Assessment

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 02:03:33 GMT

Delivering Safe and Resilient Community Facilities

Rockhampton Sport Precinct Flood Assessment

Advanced flood modelling guided the design of the Rockhampton Sport Precinct Project to safely manage site and surrounding flood risks.

Flood Assessment

Our client was SportEng

Location - CQ University Campus, Rockhampton, QLD

Cumulus Engineering partnered with SportEng to deliver a detailed flood assessment for the proposed Rockhampton Sports Precinct, located within the CQ University campus in North Rockhampton, Queensland. The new precinct will be a regional-scale, flood-free sports and recreation hub designed to support community sport, athlete development, and major events.

Using advanced hydrologic and hydraulic modelling, the study evaluated existing overland flow patterns and assessed how the development’s drainage design - including swales, a detention basin, and culverts - would perform under a range of flood scenarios. Results showed that the proposed works would reduce flood extents across much of the site, concentrate flows into controlled drainage pathways, and prevent adverse impacts on neighbouring properties. The assessment ensures the sports precinct can be delivered as a safe, resilient, and compliant community facility while supporting long-term floodplain management objectives for the precinct.

Flood modelling ensures the sports precinct can be built safely, protecting surrounding properties and supporting future floodplain management.

The Rockhampton Sport Precinct Assessment will be located on the CQ University campus in Rockhampton, QLD.

Author

Sarah Hollis

Senior Engineer

Project Highlight: Barham River Flood Study

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 02:03:33 GMT

A comprehensive investigation to guide flood risk management in Apollo Bay

Barham River Flood Study Review

Developing new climate-ready flood models and risk assessments to strengthen community resilience, protect critical infrastructure, and guide future flood mitigation and planning.

Flood Study

Our client was Colac Otway Shire Council

Location - Apollo Bay, VIC

Cumulus Engineering has been engaged by Colac Otway Shire Council to undertake the Barham River Flood Study which consists of a comprehensive flood investigation of the Barham River catchment near Apollo Bay, Victoria. Our team will develop updated, climate-ready flood models using the latest data and tools, while also engaging closely with council, government agencies, and the local community. The outcome will be a clear, practical understanding of flood risks and options to strengthen Barham’s resilience, support smart land-use planning, and guide future flood mitigation efforts.

The study area covers the Barham River and its key tributaries , including Anderson Creek, Milford Creek, and local waterways extending to Apollo Bay . The catchment includes both urban and rural zones , with steep terrain and tidal influences that make parts of the area prone to flash flooding.

Delivered in two key phases, the project includes a Flood Study Report with hydrologic and hydraulic modelling, detailed flood mapping, and design flood analysis, followed by a Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan that assesses flood risks, explores mitigation options, and recommends updates for land-use planning and emergency management. The study also integrates climate change projections, riverine and stormwater flood probabilities, and sea level rise, producing digital maps, spatial databases, and visualisations to guide council, emergency services, and the community. Together, these insights aim to strengthen community resilience, improve flood preparedness, and support informed decision-making for the Barham catchment and Apollo Bay.

These insights aim to strengthen community resilience, improve flood preparedness, and support informed decision-making for the Barham catchment and Apollo Bay.

The Barham River catchment, including Anderson Creek, Milford Creek, and smaller tributaries, flows through urban and rural areas and runs 16 km through the Great Otway National Park before reaching Bass Strait near Apollo Bay.

Barham River, Victoria

Author

Sarah Hollis

Senior Engineer

Project Highlight: Deniliquin BESS Flood Assessment

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 06:47:58 GMT

Balancing renewable energy, flood resilience, and community safety in regional NSW

Deniliquin Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Flood Assessment

Using advanced flood modelling and site-specific analysis to ensure safe, resilient infrastructure that enables the growth of renewable energy.

Renewables Flood Assessment, 2025-2026

Our clients were N GH Consulting & Avenis Energy

Location - Deniliquin, NSW

The Deniliquin Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Flood Assessment is an iconic project supporting the transition to renewable energy while ensuring resilience to local flood risks. This study is unique in that it integrates advanced hydrologic and hydraulic modelling, site-specific flood behaviour analysis, and compliance with regional and state floodplain management plans to enable the safe development of large-scale energy infrastructure.

The project confirms that the BESS site will operate without increasing flood risk to surrounding properties or infrastructure, while incorporating measures to ensure safe access and minimal environmental impact. Currently underway, the assessment represents an important milestone in balancing energy security, climate adaptation, and community safety , with outcomes that will help guide the future of sustainable infrastructure across the region

This assessment ensures the BESS site operates safely without increasing flood risk, setting a benchmark for sustainable infrastructure in the region.

The Deniliquin BESS is proposed to be located 6 km southeast of Deniliquin, NSW, adjacent to the Deniliquin substation.

The Deniliquin floodplains

Author

Sarah Hollis

Senior Engineer

Project Highlight: Goornong Floodplain Study

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 05:26:40 GMT

An important project shaping the future of flood risk management in regional Victoria

Goornong Floodplain Study

Combining advanced flood modelling, climate projections, and community input, the study provides actionable insights that set a new benchmark for regional flood planning and resilience.

Flood Study, 2025-2026

Our client was City of Greater Bendigo

Location - Goornong, North of Bendigo VIC

Cumulus Engineering has been awarded the Goornong Floodplain Study , a significant and iconic project aimed at improving flood risk assessment and management in the region. This study is distinctive because it brings together advanced hydrologic and hydraulic modelling, climate change projections, and extensive community consultation to provide a comprehensive understanding of local flood behaviour.

Now underway, the project is progressing through key stages of data analysis, modelling, and engagement with stakeholders to ensure robust and practical outcomes. More than just a technical exercise, the study will inform future planning, emergency response, and flood mitigation options , directly safeguarding the Goornong community and setting a new benchmark for regional floodplain studies. Scheduled for completion by mid-2026 , this project represents a lasting investment in resilience and sustainable growth for the region.

The study will inform future planning, emergency response, and flood mitigation options, directly safeguarding the Goornong community.

The Study will cover Goornong township and surrounding areas including North Huntly, Bagshot, North Bagshot, Fosterville, Wellsford, Avonmore. It will include several creeks and waterways: Bendigo Creek, Crabhole Creek, Reedy Creek, Sandy Creek, Yankee Creek, Five Mile Creek, and Gunyah Creek.

Author

Sarah Hollis

Senior Engineer

Navigating Flood Planning Overlays in New South Wales

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 13:38:08 GMT

Navigating Flood Planning Controls in New South Wales:
Key Overlays and What They Mean for Development

Flooding is a common natural hazard in many parts of New South Wales (NSW), and local councils, along with the NSW government, have implemented specific planning controls to manage flood risk. If you’re looking to develop or build in NSW, understanding the key flood-related overlays and controls is crucial to ensure a compliant, resilient project and avoid costly setbacks.

Key Flood Planning Controls in NSW

Flood planning controls in NSW are embedded in local council planning schemes and influenced by both Local Environmental Plans (LEPs) and Development Control Plans (DCPs). Together with state guidelines, such as the NSW Flood Prone Land Policy and Floodplain Development Manual, these planning documents define flood risk areas and outline requirements to manage development safely within them.

Here’s a closer look at the primary flood-related controls and floodplain definitions that developers and landowners should be aware of:

Flood Planning Area (FPA)

Purpose: The FPA identifies land that lies below the Flood Planning Level (FPL) . The FPL is a combination of the flood level from the Defined Flood Event (DFE) and an appropriate level of freeboard selected for flood risk management purposes. For assessing development in New South Wales the defined flood event is typically the 1% AEP event although this is not always the case. The FPA is a planning control which ensures that the underlying flood risk in those locations is appropriately managed.

Requirements: Developments within the FPA must meet specific elevation and design requirements to minimise flood impacts. Plans may need to show how they accommodate flood flow and protect buildings, contents and occupants.

Implications for Development: Early consideration of flood-resilient design is essential in FPA areas, as it can influence building placement, floor elevation, and materials.

Floodway Areas

Purpose: Floodway Areas are areas of land critical for the conveyance of floodwaters, particularly vulnerable to high-velocity or deep flood flows. Development is strictly controlled in these areas to ensure water can flow safely during a flood.

Requirements: New development in Floodway Areas is highly restricted. Any proposed construction must demonstrate that it won’t hinder water flow or increase flood risk to surrounding areas.

Implications for Development: Development in Floodway Areas is often limited or prohibited, and proposals may require detailed hydraulic analysis to demonstrate no adverse impact on flood behavior.

High Hazard Areas

Purpose: Similar to Floodway Areas, High Hazard Areas within the floodplain are locations where floodwaters pose a significant threat to life and property due to deep or fast-moving waters. These areas require careful consideration when planning any development.

Requirements : Development in High Hazard Areas is typically discouraged. Where development is allowed, stringent conditions apply, including elevated construction, flood-resistant materials, and emergency evacuation plans. Flood modelling is also likely required to demonstrate no adverse impacts to other properties.

Implications for Development: As with Floodway Areas, High Hazard designations can make development costly or unviable, as it may necessitate extensive modifications to meet safety standards.

LEPs and DCPs: How They Guide Flood Risk Management

Both Local Environmental Plans (LEPs) and Development Control Plans (DCPs) play a central role in flood risk management in NSW. LEPs outline zoning and land use controls, defining flood-prone land boundaries and providing a high-level framework for what can and cannot be built in flood-affected areas. DCPs provide more detailed guidance, offering specific development standards for construction in flood-prone zones, such as building elevations, materials, and drainage requirements. Together, these documents establish the guidelines that developers must adhere to for safe and compliant developments in flood-prone areas.

Why Consider Flood Controls Early?

Assessing flood planning controls early in the development process is crucial for several reasons:

Avoid Costly Redesigns: Recognizing flood controls early can prevent expensive redesigns down the line. Early engagement allows developers to design with flood risks in mind from the start, avoiding costly last-minute changes.
Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Development in flood-prone areas is subject to strict controls for public safety and environmental protection. Understanding these controls upfront helps streamline the approval process and reduce delays.
Safeguard Property and Life: Incorporating flood resilience into design isn’t just about meeting regulations – it’s about ensuring the long-term safety of occupants. Addressing flood risks early on can make properties more resilient to flooding events, protecting residents and reducing future damages.
Support Community Flood Resilience: Well-planned developments contribute to broader community flood resilience. By respecting floodways and implementing effective flood mitigation measures, developments help minimize flood impact on surrounding areas, benefiting the entire community.

Check Your Property’s Flood Designation

If you’re considering a project in NSW, there are a number of sources to check flood designations for your property. Most local councils provide online tools or resources to identify areas affected by flood controls. Additionally, property reports are often available through council websites or NSW’s Planning Portal , which provides further insight into flood risks, LEPs, DCPs, and applicable controls.

Engage Floodplain Management Experts Early in The Process

Flood planning controls and requirements in LEPs and DCPs can be complex, and interpreting their implications for a specific site often requires specialist knowledge. At Cumulus Engineering, we’re experienced in navigating NSW’s flood risk framework, helping clients understand site-specific requirements and mitigate risks. Getting us involved early can make all the difference in planning a safe, compliant, and resilient development, avoiding costly redesigns and ensuring peace of mind.

In Summary

Flooding is a significant challenge in many parts of New South Wales, and understanding the state’s flood-related planning controls is critical for compliant and resilient development. These controls, outlined in Local Environmental Plans (LEPs), Development Control Plans (DCPs), and state policies, help manage flood risks by identifying areas like Flood Planning Areas, Floodway Areas, and High Hazard Areas, each with specific considerations and requirements.

Early consideration of flood controls can prevent costly redesigns, streamline approvals, and enhance safety. Engaging experts like Cumulus Engineering early in the process ensures tailored advice, helping you navigate regulations, minimize risks, and contribute to community flood resilience.

Navigating Flood Planning Overlays in Victoria: LSIO, FO, and SBO

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 13:38:08 GMT

Flooding is a significant natural hazard, and Victoria’s planning scheme includes specific overlays designed to manage and mitigate flood risks. If you’re involved in property development or planning or even general land ownership, understanding these overlays – the Land Subject to Inundation Overlay (LSIO), the Floodway Overlay (FO), and the Special Building Overlay (SBO) – is crucial to ensure a smoother process and avoid costly delays or modifications.

What are Flood Planning Overlays?

Flood planning overlays are part of Victoria’s planning framework, embedded in local planning schemes to identify areas vulnerable to flood risks. These overlays establish requirements and considerations to reduce flood-related risks to property, infrastructure, and communities. Here’s a breakdown of the three main overlays:

Land Subject to Inundation Overlay (LSIO)

Purpose: The LSIO covers areas that may experience flooding in a defined flood event - typically the 1% AEP flood event in Victoria. It highlights regions land affected by flooding associated with waterways and open drainage systems. Such areas are commonly known as floodplains.
Requirements: Developments in LSIO areas typically need to account for flood impacts, ensuring buildings and occupants are adequately protected. Plans might need to show how they manage floodwaters or limit property damage in flood events.
Implications for Development: The LSIO requires early consideration of flood-resistant design and may influence building and lot elevations and materials.

2. Floodway Overlay (FO)

Purpose: The FO represents areas within the primary flood path where water moves at high velocity or at significant depths during a flood. These zones are considered essential floodways, which need to remain clear to allow the safe passage of water during significant events.
Requirements: Development in FO areas is more restricted, as development may impede floodwater flow or result in adverse impacts on adjoining areas. Development potential in these areas is limited and any works must demonstrate that they won’t compromise floodway function or increase flood risk to other properties or key infrastructure.
Implications for Development: This overlay usually prohibits or heavily restricts construction in these areas, which may make certain developments unviable. Detailed hydraulic analysis may be required for any works proposed in these areas.

3. Special Building Overlay (SBO)

Purpose: The SBO applies to areas affected by local overland flows, often related to urban stormwater flooding. This overlay addresses risks from stormwater flooding, particularly in areas with limited drainage capacity during heavy rainfall events.
Requirements: Developments in SBO areas must often include drainage solutions or raised floor levels to protect structures and inhabitants from flooding. Planning permits must consider measures to redirect or control water flows.
Implications for Development: The SBO typically impacts urban areas and similar to LSIO, requires appropriate consideration in the site design. This may influence the site layout and floor elevations to ensure overland flow is not obstructed and buildings are designed appropriately. Flood modelling may also be required to demonstrate no adverse impacts to off-site properties and infrastructure.

Why Consider Flood Planning Overlays Early?

Flood planning overlays should be assessed early in the development process for several reasons:

Avoid Costly Redesigns: Recognising flood overlays early on can prevent expensive modifications later. It enables developers to design with flood risk in mind from the outset, reducing the likelihood of needing costly redesigns or worst case - retrofits.
Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Development in flood-prone areas is subject to strict planning controls to protect communities and the environment. Early consideration ensures compliance with local planning schemes, helping to streamline the approval process.
Protect Property and Life: Integrating flood resilience into design isn’t just about meeting regulations – it’s about ensuring safety for future occupants. Planning with flood overlays in mind helps create properties better equipped to withstand flooding, protecting residents and reducing potential flood damage.

Enhance Community Resilience: Well-planned developments contribute to broader community flood resilience. By respecting floodways and managing stormwater flow, developments can help minimise the impact of flooding on surrounding areas, benefiting the entire community.

Check Your Property’s Overlays on VicPlan

Before diving into any development, it’s easy to check your property’s flood overlays. The VicPlan website allows you to view zoning information, including flood overlays, and download a detailed property report. This tool helps identify potential flood-related considerations early on, providing a clearer picture of any planning restrictions and requirements tied to the LSIO, FO, or SBO.

Get Expert Guidance with Cumulus Engineering

Understanding flood overlays and their implications for your site can be complex. Getting specialists like Cumulus Engineering involved early can help you interpret these overlays, understand site-specific requirements, and navigate any constraints early in a project. With experience in flood risk management and development planning, Cumulus can offer tailored advice to ensure your project is both compliant and resilient, saving you time, reducing costs, and providing confidence in flood-prone areas.

In Summary

The LSIO, FO, and SBO are essential tools in Victoria’s planning scheme to identify and manage flood risks. Early consideration of these overlays in development planning is essential for compliance, safety, and sustainability. By working with these guidelines, utilising resources like VicPlan, and involving specialists like Cumulus Engineering, developers can contribute to safer, more resilient communities and reduce the long-term impacts of flooding on both property and people.

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Project Highlight: Wimmera Rock Chute Modelling

Hydraulic modelling to guide rock chute stabilisation across the Wimmera region.

Wimmera Rock Chute Modelling

Hydraulic modelling of waterways in the Wimmera region to inform the design of resilient rock chute stabilisation structures.

Environmental Project

Our client was Geomorphe

Advanced modelling and practical expertise that ensure robust results that support practical design solutions and waterway stability.

The Wimmera Rock Chute is located in the upper Wimmera catchment

Author

Project Highlight: South Coree BESS Flood Impact Assessment

Supporting safe and sustainable energy infrastructure through expert flood assessment.

South Coree BESS

﻿ Flood Impact Assessment

Assessment of flood impacts for the South Coree Battery Energy Storage System to ensure safe, compliant, and climate-resilient development.

Renewables

Our client was NGH Consulting ﻿

Advanced flood modelling confirms the BESS site manages flood risk effectively, safeguarding surrounding land and infrastructure.

The BESS site is in south Coree, NSW

Author

Project Highlight: Rockhampton Sports Precinct Flood Assessment

Delivering Safe and Resilient Community Facilities

Rockhampton Sport Precinct Flood Assessment

Advanced flood modelling guided the design of the Rockhampton Sport Precinct Project to safely manage site and surrounding flood risks.

Flood Assessment

Our client was SportEng

Flood modelling ensures the sports precinct can be built safely, protecting surrounding properties and supporting future floodplain management.

The Rockhampton Sport Precinct Assessment will be located on the CQ University campus in Rockhampton, QLD.

Author

Project Highlight: Barham River Flood Study

A comprehensive investigation to guide flood risk management in Apollo Bay

Barham River Flood Study Review

Developing new climate-ready flood models and risk assessments to strengthen community resilience, protect critical infrastructure, and guide future flood mitigation and planning.

Flood Study

Our client was Colac Otway Shire Council

These insights aim to strengthen community resilience, improve flood preparedness, and support informed decision-making for the Barham catchment and Apollo Bay.

The Barham River catchment, including Anderson Creek, Milford Creek, and smaller tributaries, flows through urban and rural areas and runs 16 km through the Great Otway National Park before reaching Bass Strait near Apollo Bay.

Author

Project Highlight: Deniliquin BESS Flood Assessment

Balancing renewable energy, flood resilience, and community safety in regional NSW

Deniliquin Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Flood Assessment

Using advanced flood modelling and site-specific analysis to ensure safe, resilient infrastructure that enables the growth of renewable energy.

Renewables Flood Assessment, 2025-2026

Our clients were N GH Consulting & Avenis Energy

This assessment ensures the BESS site operates safely without increasing flood risk, setting a benchmark for sustainable infrastructure in the region.

The Deniliquin BESS is proposed to be located 6 km southeast of Deniliquin, NSW, adjacent to the Deniliquin substation.

Author

Project Highlight: Goornong Floodplain Study

An important project shaping the future of flood risk management in regional Victoria

Goornong Floodplain Study

Combining advanced flood modelling, climate projections, and community input, the study provides actionable insights that set a new benchmark for regional flood planning and resilience.

Flood Study, 2025-2026

Our client was City of Greater Bendigo

The study will inform future planning, emergency response, and flood mitigation options, directly safeguarding the Goornong community.

The Study will cover Goornong township and surrounding areas including North Huntly, Bagshot, North Bagshot, Fosterville, Wellsford, Avonmore. It will include several creeks and waterways: Bendigo Creek, Crabhole Creek, Reedy Creek, Sandy Creek, Yankee Creek, Five Mile Creek, and Gunyah Creek.

Author

Navigating Flood Planning Overlays in New South Wales

Navigating Flood Planning Controls in New South Wales: Key Overlays and What They Mean for Development

Key Flood Planning Controls in NSW

Flood Planning Area (FPA)

Floodway Areas

High Hazard Areas

LEPs and DCPs: How They Guide Flood Risk Management

Why Consider Flood Controls Early?

Check Your Property’s Flood Designation

Engage Floodplain Management Experts Early in The Process

In Summary

Navigating Flood Planning Overlays in Victoria: LSIO, FO, and SBO

What are Flood Planning Overlays?

Why Consider Flood Planning Overlays Early?

Check Your Property’s Overlays on VicPlan

Get Expert Guidance with Cumulus Engineering

In Summary

Flood Impact Assessment

Our client was NGH Consulting

Navigating Flood Planning Controls in New South Wales:
Key Overlays and What They Mean for Development