Works to improve flood resilience and restore the natural beauty of Livingstone Park in Omeo are now nearing completion.

Delivered under a detailed flood-remediation plan developed by a specialist waterway consultant, the project has focused on strengthening the park’s natural defences against flooding while enhancing its appeal for locals and visitors.

With the core construction works of stage 1 now complete, the project team is currently finalising the last elements, including additional planting and finishing touches to pathways and rockwork.

Key upgrades delivered include:

• Construction of rock chutes
• Installation of a new rock crossing
• Extensive new plantings to improve biodiversity and flood resilience

Stage 2 will see the replacement of the damaged spillway. The existing concrete and rock spillway will be replaced by a new rock spillway, and a new bridge will be constructed over the spillway.

• Civil design and structural design under review
• Plans will be on YourSay soon for viewing

These improvements address flood damage and provide long-term stabilisation of the floodway through Livingstone Park.

Contractor GM Peterson is on-site, carrying out excavation and creating rock chutes and crossings, as well as planting vegetation to strengthen the floodway and keep the park looking great.

The engineering design incorporates flood risk mitigation while preserving cultural and environmental assets, including Livingstone Creek, the park’s central feature. While some trees may need to go, an arborist will be on site during construction to determine whether the trees can remain in place.

If you’re heading to the park, be aware that access to some areas including the creek, playground, and certain walking tracks, will be restricted. Mountain bikers are asked to keep an eye out for detours, slow down near work areas, and stay clear of exclusion zones.

We anticipate the project is set to wrap up in late May 2025.

Under a detailed flood-remediation plan, prepared by a specialist waterway consultant, we are set to complete a series of improvements that will not only address recent flood damage but will provide long-term stabilisation of the floodway through Livingstone Park.

Council awarded a contract for these works on Tuesday 17 December 2024, with work scheduled to begin in February 2025.

Proposed works include:

• rock chutes,
• a rock crossing, and
• extensive new plantings.

Three blue gum trees and one red gum tree will need to be removed to construct one of the rock chutes. This decision is on the advice of environmental assessments and in consultation with a local arborist and was carefully considered by Council.

We’re committed to strengthening the park's natural defenses against flooding and ensuring it remains a safe and beautiful space for everyone.

To read more, visit: Media Release December 10, 2024

Streamology have been engaged for the design of flood remediation works.

Streamology have already completed hydrology and hydraulic modelling to inform the design and achieve a long-term stabilisation of the creek. Although the concept of a rock chute is simple, proper hydraulic design is critical to ensure that the chute geometry and rock size are matched with the expected flow conditions such that the rock remains stable under all expected flow conditions. The detailed design has now been finalised and includes elements such as rock chutes and a rock crossing.

Officers of the North-East Catchment Management Authority (NECMA) also provided valuable input to the design process.

Council has commenced the process of seeking permits and approvals for the construction works. Whilst we finalise this process, the construction works will be advertised for tendering.

The construction works are expected to commence in February and be completed by June 2025 to meet our grant deadline.

A request for quote is currently advertised for the completion of detailed design for the flood remediation works.

To be a part of this exciting project, submit your application at - Tenders (eastgippsland.vic.gov.au)

Open until 17 April 2024.

Council is currently reviewing the concept plans to ensure they remain accurate following the flooding events last year. Further updates will be provided once the review process has been completed.

We welcome your continued interest in this project; project updates will be provided on YourSay, when available. Please click on 'Subscribe' at the top of the page to follow this project and to receive important information directly to your inbox.