DUNGOG Shire Mayor Digby Mayor has praised the response of the community and emergency services to intense rainfall and flooding across the region last week.
Towns such as Paterson and Clarence Town were practically cut off as roads flooded over, leaving residents stranded and isolated.
The Paterson River at Gostwyck Bridge rose to levels above 8.19 metres.
Residents in Paterson were issued an emergency warning to evacuate at around 10:30pm on 19 May.
The Bureau of Meteorology advised the Williams River at Dungog peaked at 7.41 metres around 10:00pm on Wednesday 21 May.
River levels stabilised over the weekend and flood waters started to subside.
As of Monday there were still numerous road closures and detours in place.
Due to the heavy rain, a landslip occurred in the mountains on Bingleburra Road between Gresford and Dungog.
Mayor Rayward said the Shire was better prepared than in previous floods.
“I just think that we are certainly more prepared for this flood than in the past,” he said.
“The SES and RFS have responded very well. And I think we have all responded well.”
As the water continues to subside, the clean up process can begin.
“I think that obviously it will take a long while for the flood to subside,” Mayor Rayward said.
“Unfortunately we have been hit with landslips and flood damage.
“But we ask people to have common sense and patience with council as we work to start the repair process.”
By Joseph RICHARDS
