Rains, drains, floods

The ABC news and Guardian recently published reports of the potential return of La Niña in 2024 bringing similar rain to 2022.

We just experienced 100mm of rain and had streets and local roads blocked.

We have seen no significant clearing of drains, creeks and rivers, although a pathetic attempt following 2022, resulted in a few visible areas of open drains cleared of weeds. The solid debris under driveway bridges remains. Money wasted.

Effective work would be a methodical, grid pattern from east to west of all streets and lanes. Saltwater Creek, Kings Creek and river.

Following the 2017 flood, Byron Council’s investigation listed 20-odd recommendations for flood mitigation. None were completed. Money wasted.

Despite the 2022 disaster, there is still no work or plans for drainage. In a recent Zoom meeting Mayor Lyon was asked if any significant plans were in force to rectify the drainage problems before next flood season. He gave a hasty, dismissive reply, generalising about councils always being responsible for drainage. So take that as a ‘no’.

The recent Whole Flood Mitigation plan demonstrates this disinterest and neglect of the problems. A brief mention of Mullumbimby at item 12, moderate priority, another mention of New City Road drainage, low priority. More assessment, investigation planned. No action. Money wasted.

Byron Council elections are in September. All current councillors who have aligned with Lyon, showing no independent, intelligent ability to vote from their own integrity on issues affecting our town and community – vote them OUT. Duncan Dey in, if he runs.

We don’t need sycophants, we need balanced debate and voting reflecting the needs as expressed by the community.

We need infrastructure first and housing development second.

Marlene Crompton, Mullumbimby

Ed note: Cr Dey has indicated he is not intending to run again in September.