The Maitland Local Government Area, situated in the valley of the Hunter River in New South Wales, is one of New South Wales' most flood-prone regions. Despite being highly urbanised, it comprises both rural farming lands and urban suburbs. Extensive flood mitigation efforts, including levees, floodgates, and diversion banks, have been implemented, with notable features like the Bolwarra floodway and the Hunter Valley Flood Mitigation Scheme. However, flooding remains a persistent risk, impacting areas such as East Maitland, Lorn, and South Maitland, despite the mitigation measures. The history of floods, including the devastating 1955 event, underscores the ongoing need for management and protection against flooding in the region.
The local information page provides valuable resources for your Local Government Area (LGA). You can explore flood information for your local river catchment through Local Flood Insights, access local flood plans and guides, and connect with local councils and NSW SES units.
Morpeth, Duckenfield and Miller’s Forest
Areas such as Morpeth, Duckenfield, and Miller's Forest, along with smaller suburbs like Raworth and Berry Park, experience frequent and occasionally severe flooding. Despite extensive mitigation efforts, large parts of Maitland remain susceptible to flooding, particularly during rare and severe events. Historical floods have caused significant damage, underscoring the ongoing risk despite improvements in flood management.
Bolwarra, Bolwarra Heights and Largs
Maitland, including areas like Bolwarra and Largs, has flood mitigation infrastructure such as levees, floodgates, and spillways. The Bolwarra floodway directs floodwaters away from Maitland, using spillways and control banks, including the Lorn diversion bank. However, floodwaters can seep through the Bolwarra spillway rockwork, potentially affecting Belmore Road before overtopping. Additionally, flooding from the Paterson River can impact roads and access in Bolwarra and Phoenix Park, increasing flood risk.
Lorn – Maitland
Maitland, Lorn, South Maitland, Louth Park, and Horseshoe Bend are located along the Hunter River, connected by Belmore Bridge. These areas have experienced over 200 floods since European settlement, including a major one in 1955, which led to the Hunter Valley Flood Mitigation Scheme. This system of levees, floodgates, and drains aims to reduce flood damage but doesn't offer complete protection, as shown by the 1955 flood that claimed 11 lives and inundated 2,200 homes.
East Maitland
This area includes East Maitland and nearby suburbs such as Rathluba, Ashtonfield, Metford, Tenambit, and the rural area of Pitnacree. Historical flooding in Maitland has been both frequent and severe, causing significant damage in major events. While extensive mitigation efforts have reduced some impacts, large portions of Maitland are still at risk of flooding, particularly during rare and severe events.
Thornton and Chisholm
Thornton Chisholm and its newer suburbs, including Waterford, Somerset, and Sophia Waters, are particularly vulnerable areas. Despite extensive mitigation efforts that have reduced the impact of flooding, large parts of Maitland remain at risk, especially during rare and severe flood events. Historically, the area has experienced frequent and occasionally severe flooding, leading to significant damage.