The Hodgman Liberal Government is a long term supporter of Launceston’s new flood mitigation levees and today’s opening is an important milestone in a long-term goal.
On behalf of the Premier Will Hodgman and the Bass members of Parliament, Treasurer Peter Gutwein and Health Minister Michael Ferguson, today is the culmination of more than 7 years’ of hard work from State, Federal and Local Government.
I would also like to pay tribute Alan Birchmore and Andrew Fullard and their team at the Launceston Flood Authority for their dedication and guidance through a complicated project.
The scheme is a combination of 12km of earth levees, 950m of concrete levees, a “training levee’’ and 16 flood gates that will give Launceston protection from a 1:200 year flood event.
The Tasmanian Government has contributed $19.75 million to this Launceston Flood Risk Management Project and I acknowledge the input and support from previous governments, ministers and individuals at all levels.
This is a red-letter day for Launceston. Not only have we achieved a safer and better protected community but we have also unlocked enormous potential for this city and region.
The plans unveiled by UTAS for a University-led education revival for Launceston would not have been possible without this long-term commitment to flood protection.
We have gone from risky, dilapidated levees to a modern flood protection system and walkways that will not only protect homes and businesses but draw people to the river.
This is an outstanding example of what can be achieved with co-operation and commitment and the Tasmanian Government is proud if its involvement and contribution.
Sarah Courtney
