The intersection of Dingyarra Street and Abbotsford Street in Toogoolawah will close from Wednesday, 28 October, for about 10 business days, depending on weather. Traffic will be detoured via Cairnscroft Street, and drivers are asked to follow temporary traffic management and detour signs. Somerset Regional Council is carrying out stormwater works on Dingyarra Street as part of the Dingyarra Street Drainage Upgrade Project. The works aim to improve stormwater management and flood immunity for nearby properties and local roads, with local access kept where possible.
New trees have been planted near 30 and 34 Marine Terrace in Fremantle's West End, adding greenery and future shade to a highly urbanised area. The City of Fremantle worked with the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage to choose suitable locations and tree species that suit the heritage setting. Purpose-designed tree pits capture stormwater, which helps water the trees and improves drainage in the area. The City's Urban Forest team will maintain the trees and shape their growth to protect heritage sightlines. The planting supports the City's Urban Forest Plan, which aims to increase tree canopy.
A record 90 schools have planted almost 4000 trees through the Trees for Schools program, including Daraweit Guim Primary School. Greater Western Water aims to increase tree cover, reduce stormwater run-off to waterways, improve green spaces and teach students about the benefits of trees. Greater Western Water strategy and partnerships general manager Kessia Thomson said trees release water vapour that becomes rainfall and their roots help strengthen soil. The program began in 2021 with 22 schools.
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Tamworth Regional Council plans major repairs to ageing stormwater infrastructure beneath the Peel River levee that protects the city centre. Inspections found several deteriorating outlets between Bligh and Murray streets, and some will need complete reconstruction. The damage was found after more detailed checks prompted by an incomplete floodgate closure in 2025. Council says initial works will reline and maintain outlets that are still sound, with reconstruction tendered in 2027. A contingency plan will add protection for the CBD if major flooding occurs before permanent repairs are finished.
A teenage boy was rescued from Brisbane's stormwater drains after becoming trapped in the underground network near Kangaroo Point. Five firefighting crews located the boy, who was with his brother, about 20 metres from the entrance. The operation, which took around half an hour, involved using an inflatable rescue boat. The teenager was unharmed and did not require hospital treatment. Authorities cautioned against exploring such drains, especially after rainfall, due to their extensive and complex layout.
Ninety schools across Melbourne's west have planted 3911 native trees through Greater Western Water's Trees for Schools program. The initiative aims to increase tree cover, reduce stormwater run-off to local waterways and teach students about environmental benefits. Schools received native trees, stakes, guards and expert planting advice. Since launching in 2021, the program has grown from 22 schools to 90. It is delivered with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action through the More Trees for a Cooler Greener West initiative.
Thousands of households are being warned that artificial smoke may billow from lawns and roof vents over coming weeks. Unitywater crews are pumping non-toxic vapour through wastewater pipes to find illegal connections, leaks and defects. Residents in targeted suburbs around Moreton Bay will receive letters two weeks before testing. Property owners found with defects will need a licensed plumber to make repairs, with fines of up to $32,000 possible for illegal plumbing work. Other utilities across the country, including Sydney Water, are running similar testing programs.
A Brunswick Heads resident claims Byron Shire Council lacks necessary reports to address a stormwater collapse in Bayside. The resident alleges the council has asked residents to go through their insurance companies instead. Two former council employees, Ryan and Sam, who were involved in the stormwater issue, are no longer employed by the council. The resident calls for an audit of all departments and a moratorium on development.
