U.S. engineering expert Mike Schmidt joined Local Government Minister Stirling Hinchliffe and Bundaberg Mayor Jack Dempsey today to inspect a potential site for the Bundaberg East Levee ahead of community information sessions on 6 June.
Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said that this was a great opportunity for locals to hear from a world-renowned engineer about the next project in the Bundaberg 10-year Action Plan.
“ Whole areas of Bundaberg were devastated by major flooding in 2013, and having met with affected residents, I’ve heard first-hand how it affected them ,” he said.
“The Premier has also visited Bundaberg to meet with locals who bore the brunt of flooding, and committed to assisting with future flood mitigation efforts.
“The purpose of these sessions is to offer as much information as possible to the community and listen to any feedback.”
“This project is designed to mitigate the effects of a major natural disaster and increase protection from flooding from the Burnett River within Bundaberg East, South and the CBD.
“It’s important we have as many people as possible at the community sessions because so that we get outcomes that best reflect the views of local residents.
“We will also be holding an invitation only briefing session for owners directly along the proposed levee alignment with Mr Schmidt and the project team.”
Mike Schmidt is a Senior Vice President with worldwide engineering firm CDM Smith. He has guided the implementation of over $1 billion of multi-benefit, capital improvements such as levees.
“ Our team has been in Bundaberg and are very aware of the extent of flooding and the critical local issues, ” Mr Schmidt said.
“ We have evaluated a range of options to mitigate flooding and have drawn on our experience in the US and other countries to produce a design for the Bundaberg East Levee which also represents best international practice ,” Mr Schmidt concluded.
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