Warren Shire Mayor Greg Whiteley says the $7.1 million Levee Bank Rehabilitation and Riverbank Rock Armouring Project has reached a major milestone in protecting the community from future flood events.

Work is beginning soon to keep Warren safe.

‘’We are doing this in 5 sections 250m long firstly then 4 other areas to encircle the town left of Dubbo Street behind the Dental surgery and to Warren hole,’’ Mr Whiteley said.

He explained it will minimise the risk of it ever flooding the town again like 1990 and in the 1950’s.

Work was done in the 1990’s, from 96 to 2001, but now with major re-enforcement and further flood studies the bolstered levee bank will be in place by Christmas ‘’weather permitting’’.

Jointly funded by all three levels of government, Commonwealth, State and Local, the project forms a key part of Council’s long-term flood mitigation strategy.

It is facilitated by NSW Reconstruction Authority under the National Flood Mitigation Infrastructure Program, with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) administering the funds on behalf of NSW Reconstruction Authority.

“We’re grateful to receive funding from the Commonwealth under the National Flood Mitigation Infrastructure Program, and the NSW Government," said Mr Whiteley.

Warren levee. IMAGE: Warren Shire Council

Once complete, the Project will deliver significant upgrades to Warren’s flood protection system, including:

• • Strong rock revetments to stabilise and reinforce the levee bank,

• • Modernised floodgates designed to better manage water flow, and

• • Diesel-powered pumps to safeguard homes, roads, and essential community assets during high-water events.

Mayor Whiteley said the project will bring real benefits to the community, not only in infrastructure, but in security and peace of mind.

“This isn’t just about engineering. It’s about protecting people’s homes, local farms, community facilities, and businesses," he said.

"We’re investing in the future of Warren Shire and our community’s safety, making sure we’re ready to weather the storms ahead."

Council’s Infrastructure Projects Manager, Joe Joseph, said, “This is a technically complex project involving rock revetments, new floodgates, and pump infrastructure that will allow us to respond more efficiently and effectively during emergency situations.”

“MGN Civil brings the specialist capability and experience required to work in the riverine environment and deliver a more robust, reliable defence against flooding.

"We’re pleased to be moving into the construction phase,” he added.

Residents can stay informed by visiting the Warren Shire Council website, follow Council on Facebook, and subscribe to Council’s email newsletter. 

“As the project progresses, we encourage residents to stay engaged, connected and informed as we build a more resilient future for Warren Shire,” Mayor Greg Whiteley said. 

‘’There will be some disruptions to the town we ask the community to bear with us."