Flood group reports extensive flooding

The storms on June 4 and 5 brought wind, rain and extensive flooding to the Peninsula, according to Mr Tony Maddern, founder of the Peninsula Flood Group.

Mr Maddern addressed the new Central Coast Council about the ongoing flooding of many Peninsula neighbourhoods.

"Many photos and films were taken which really highlight the problem and causes," Mr Maddern said.

"The usual streets, Lovell Rd, Veron Rd, Connex Ave and Shepherd St were flooded.

"Mackenzie Ave and Onslow Ave were flooded to the point where residents on the western side of Mackenzie/Onslow were unable to leave their homes and the SES had to help a family late on Sunday night.

"Motorists generally acted sensibly and avoided driving down flooded roads however, we did have problems with several four-wheel-drive drivers joyriding down our streets.

"Not only does this cause more damage to residents' homes, it is dangerous and reckless behaviour.

"Residents were pleased that there were few cars that became stranded over the weekend.

"A blue utility and a light truck became stranded after driving into culverts in Onslow Ave and Winifred Ave, which they were unable to see due to flooding.

"Residents would like to remind the community that if there is a water over road sign in a street, or if the road is flooded and you can't see the road, avoid travelling down the street unless you live in the street, or there is absolutely no other route to your destination.

"Several streets, such as Onslow Ave and Winifred Ave have culverts that are deep and can't be seen when flooded.

"Drivers are reminded to be aware of these, especially if unfamiliar with an area to avoid the fate of the truck driver pictured."

Mr Maddern called on the council to immediately have the main drain at Everglades cleared of all weeds and debris.

He said this work had been scheduled by the former Gosford Council to commence in August but asked council to have the work completed by September.

"We need our drainage completely overhauled," he said.

"It was built over 40 years ago for houses with big back yards and now the drainage system cannot cope with the demands put on it and must be addressed," he said.

Mr Maddern said the Peninsula Flood Group wanted to work with the Central Coast Council to lobby the NSW to get funding so the renewal of drainage on the Peninsula could be completed and ongoing flooding issues resolved.

The next meeting for the Peninsula Flood Group will be on Tuesday, June 14 at the Everglades Country Club from 7pm.

Member for Robertson, Ms Lucy Wicks has been invited to the meeting to discuss ideas and funding options.

A petition has been created asking for the drainage system on the Peninsula to be upgraded and the group is urging all residents to show support.

The petition will be put in some local businesses and members of the group will be visiting residents at home with the petitions.

"It is important for people to sign this petition and be counted, even if their street is not affected by flooding, as the upgrading of our storm water drainage will also make the upgrading of our roads possible," he said.

Email, 9 Jun 2016

Tony Maddern, Peninsula Flood Group