Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes has again urged people hit with massive flood insurance premiums to explore all options.
Dr Sykes has renewed this advice following a meeting with SunCorp Insurance representative and fellow Nationals MP’s including Tim McCurdy, Member for Murray Valley.
Dr Sykes said, “It is clear that different insurance companies have different policies with respect to assessment of flood risk and premium setting.
“Some insurance companies are insisting on compulsory flood insurance while others allow clients to opt out of flood insurance.
“Some have factored extreme flood events (for example, up to a 1/10,000 year flood event), whereas others are working on the more commonly used 1/100 year event.
“Similarly insurance premium increases for flood cover vary from very little up to 1000 per cent.
Dr Sykes also said that people should explore accepting a larger excess on their insurance cover or capping flood damage payouts.
Dr Sykes concluded, “Shop around for the flood insurance cover which best suits the risk of flood, your attitude to risk and what you can afford and make sure you fully understand the extent of insurance cover when you make your choice.”

“‘Shop around’ if you can’t negotiate satisfactory flood insurance with your existing insurer” is the advice from Bill Sykes, Member for Benalla.
Dr Sykes offers this advice following a meeting between himself and Tim McCurdy, Member for Murray Valley and Paul Northey, General Manager, Insurance RACV.
“I appreciate Mr Northey explaining RACV’s approach to flood insurance,” Dr Sykes said.
“RACV have considered the possibility of extreme flood events in calculating their flood insurance premiums. These events may occur as infrequently as once per 10,000 years.
“Whilst most damage is caused when floods go above floor level, RACV have also factored in the cost of claims for lower level floods.
“RACV have taken a business decision to make flood insurance compulsory to avoid uncertainty during the stressful time after flood and/or storm damage.
“RACV acknowledge that the flood data is of varying degree of accuracy and are committed to ongoing improvement.”
Dr Sykes continued, “Based on this clear statement of RACV’s (and some other companies) position I advise people to attempt to negotiate a flood premium which they consider acceptable with their existing insurer.
“If these attempts are unsatisfactory then I encourage people to ‘shop around’. Other companies are offering optional flood insurance and the option of accepting a higher excess to reduce premiums should be explored.”
Dr Sykes concluded, “RACV and some other companies have made a business decision to make flood insurance compulsory and they have factored in quite low probability events into their premium setting.
“If people are not satisfied with the resultant premium then they should ‘shop around’ other insurance companies.
“Whatever people finally settle on they should make sure that it is in writing and that they understand the extent of the cover which they have purchased.”

Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes today welcomed the announcement that North East Catchment Management Authority (NECMA) and Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (GBCMA) will share in more than $16 million to deliver a range of flood recovery works and repair waterways damaged by floods in the past year and 2010.
Dr Sykes said, “In the wake of the floods in September 2010 and early January 2011 I have dealt with a number of enquiries from landholders in the King, Kiewa and Ovens Valleys and areas along the Goulburn River in particular, regarding repairs to damaged waterways, riverbanks and fences.
“This financial assistance package to CMAs is important to help restore the health of our rivers and address catchment areas where potential future flooding and erosion is likely unless river bed and bank stabilisation works are undertaken.”
NECMA, significantly affected by flooding in September and December 2010, will receive $5,363,484. The funding will be used to protect CMA and public assets from increased river erosion and for repairing damaged fencing, timber groynes and rock chutes.
GBCMA was affected by flooding in September and December 2010 and again in January 2011. Major floods occurred in the catchments of the upper Broken River and the Delatite River, which was the largest on record for this river.
GBCMA will receive $407,000 to repair damaged fencing, timber groynes and other CMA assets.
Dr Sykes said, “This funding is good news for the many farmers who have been struggling to keep stock contained in areas where riverside fencing has been damaged by these flood events.
“It should also help to address the concern that many farmers have raised with me that unless revegetation is carried out on certain sections of the Goulburn, Kiewa, King, Ovens, Broken and Delatite Rivers further loss of farming land may occur in the next major flood event.”
Dr Sykes said that rivers are moving towards increased resilience to floods but still require maintenance and this funding will help the GBCMA and NECMA to care for local waterways.

The Victorian Coalition Government has announced $300,000 to support the restoration of flood-damaged community infrastructure in Myrtleford.

 Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional and Rural Development Peter Ryan and Member for Benalla Dr Bill Sykes made the announcement in Myrtleford today.

 Mr Ryan said torrential rainfall in the region in September and December 2010 led to extensive flooding that caused widespread damage to community infrastructure.

 “With the help of State Government funding, Alpine Shire will now be able to press ahead with much-needed repairs to the Myrtleford Lawn Tennis Club, Ablett Pavilion, Myrtleford Caravan Park and Myrtleford Memorial Hall and Supper Room,” Mr Ryan said.

 “Myrtleford has had its share of hardship over the past few years, suffering the affects of floods, bushfires and significant losses in the agricultural sector.

 “These assets are very important to Alpine Shires’ economic and community health and well-being and the Coalition Government is pleased to be able to help fast-track repair works.”

 Dr Sykes said he was delighted with funding from the Coalition Government’s $30 million Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure Fund for the Myrtleford community.

 

Restoration projects include:

 Myrtleford Lawn Tennis Club – refurbishment of nine lawn courts, re-turfing, installation of drainage and re-stumping of club rooms

• Abblett Pavilion – restoring damaged roof, ceiling, power and lighting, replacing air conditioners, carpet and walls
• Myrtleford Caravan Park - reinstating bitumen running track, upgrading drainage by installing new pipes and replacing flood-damaged power connections
• Myrtleford Memorial Hall and Supper Room - reinstating roof, repairing and repainting small sections of the ceiling, replacing sections of carpet and seating

 Dr Sykes said Myrtleford was hit hard by the floods which have impacted on the local economy and tourism.

 

“Funding to support flood recovery efforts in the town will help lift the morale of the people who live in the town and provide significant economic benefits.”

 

Flood-damaged community areas in Mansfield and Jamieson will be repaired with the help of $24,000 from the Victorian Coalition Government’s Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure Fund.

 Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional and Rural Development Peter Ryan joined Member for Benalla Dr Bill Sykes to make the announcement in the region today.

 Mr Ryan said the $24,000 grant would help restore infrastructure and public areas that were damaged in Mansfield and Jamieson during the 2010 floods and enhance the region’s reputation as a well-known tourism and lifestyle destination.

 “Mansfield Shire is an iconic destination which attracts more than 1.2 million visitors per annum generating $134 million in turnover,” Mr Ryan said. 

 “Restoration to some of the region’s key attractions including the Botanic Park and Wetlands in Mansfield, Jamieson Island and Jamieson River Walk is an important part of the region’s recovery from the 2010 floods.

 “Repairing the flood damage will allow for continued use and enjoyment of all four spaces by residents and visitors to both towns.”

 Dr Sykes said Mansfield and Jamieson were beautiful parts of north east Victoria that were enjoying one of the fastest growth rates of rural municipalities in the state.

 “This repair work will be greatly welcomed locally as the region continues to restore its infrastructure and walking tracks,” Dr Sykes said.

 “Tourism is hugely important to the Mansfield Shire and keeping our natural assets accessible and healthy is a big part of ensuring visitors enjoy their time in the region and keep coming back.”

 Mr Ryan said Mansfield Shire Council would contribute $8,000 towards the $32,000 project with works expected to be completed by the end of this year.

 

A project to repair flood damage at the Bright Caravan Park is being supported with a $180,000 Victorian Government grant announced today by Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes on behalf of the Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional and Rural Development, Peter Ryan.

Dr Sykes said the funding would reinstate and refurbish the popular caravan park, which is located on 25 acres of treed parkland.

“The park, located on the banks of Morses Creek, suffered significant flood damage in the September and December 2010 floods when the creek burst its banks,” Dr Sykes said.

“The water caused severe damage to camping areas and key park infrastructure as well as erosion to park areas.

“The Bright Caravan Park Flood Restoration project will repair and resurface about one kilometre of roadway, reinstate the power supply, install underground power cabling and replace water-affected power boxes.”

Alpine Shire Council Chief Executive Officer, Ian Nicholls said accommodation was vital to the shire’s tourism industry.

“These funds will help Bright again cater for an influx of more than 10,000 people during peak visitor times,” he said.

“Tourism is hugely important to the Alpine Shire and keeping our accommodation up to scratch is a big part of ensuring visitors enjoy their time in the region and importantly, keep coming back.”

Dr Sykes said funding for the $240,000 project would be provided to Alpine Shire Council through the Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure Fund.

“The Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure Fund is supporting councils and community groups to restore flood-affected local assets and will help stimulate local economies and restore important community infrastructure,” Dr Sykes said.

Dr Sykes said the works were expected to start in October and be completed by the end of May next year.

Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes today announced a Victorian Government grant of $294,840 to repair damaged infrastructure at the Euroa Caravan Park.
Dr Sykes said, “The Euroa Caravan Park stretches along the banks of the Seven Creeks which flooded in September 2010 and caused significant damage.
“This funding, through the Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure Fund, will reinstate access tracks, garden beds and replace the badly damaged pedestrian bridge which was rendered unsafe due the flooding.”
The total project cost of $393,120 is comprised of $294,840 from the Baillieu-Ryan Government in funding to the Strathbogie Shire Council with the balance to be contributed in kind.
The project is expected to start immediately and be completed by the middle of next year.
One of the key drivers of Strathbogie’s economy is tourism and visitors to the area have the opportunity to explore a number of key tourist attractions including balloon flights, skydiving, the beautiful Gooram Falls and wineries.
Dr Sykes said, “This project will have a positive economic impact on Euroa and the region. The caravan park, which provides cabins and camping and caravan sites, is situated in a picturesque setting and the restoration of the caravan park’s amenity will encourage visitors to continue to visit the area.”
The Baillieu-Ryan Government funding forms part of the $10.4 million interim flood package, designed to help Victoria’s businesses, community infrastructure and tourism industry recover from the recent floods, with targeted grants to help communities bounce back.

The Liberal Nationals Coalition Government will provide $735,000 toward funding five projects in the Alpine Shire, Nationals Member for Benalla Bill Sykes said today.
Dr Sykes announced the funding at the Alpine Gate Café on Monday 18 April.
“These grants will assist in flood recovery and help revitalise communities in the Alpine Shire that have been hit hard by successive natural disasters,” Dr Sykes said.
The five key projects are;
Revitalising Myrtleford – Central Open Space – The Victorian Government will provide $180,000 through its Sustainable Small Towns Development Fund towards the revitalisation of Myrtleford with the establishment of a new central park linking the Great Alpine Road to the town’s retail area. The project will include feature paved areas, landscaping, pathways and kerbing, stone walls, lighting, park furniture and interpretative signage. The Alpine Shire will contribute $60,000 to the overall $240,000 project.
Great Alpine Valleys River Walks Restoration Project - The Victorian Government will provide $300,000 through its Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure Fund towards the refurbishment of community shared, flood affected walking and cycling tracks along the banks of the Ovens and Kiewa Rivers. The Alpine Shire will contribute $90,000 as well as $10,000 in-kind community contributions. The project, which will benefit tourism in the area, will include repairs to the Ovens River walking track, construction of a new suspension bridge and repairs to Porepunkah River, Cherry, Canyon and Mt Beauty/Tawonga South walking tracks.
Alpine Shire Business Development Specialist – A Business Development Specialist will help local businesses across the Alpine Shire with the help of a $75,000 Victorian Government grant through the Local Skills Partnerships Program The position will assist council to deliver on a range of initiatives such as ‘Buy Local’ and help local businesses increase their profile, resilience and capacity.
Alpine Shire Flood Recovery Officer – The Flood Recovery Officer will co-ordinate and facilitate recovery programs and grant submissions to help the recovery process thanks to $60,000 from the Victorian Government’s Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure Find.
Alpine Shire Council Portable Festival and Events Venue – The Victorian Government will provide $120,000 through the Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure Fund towards the purchase of a portable events venue following damage from the September 2010 floods. The availability of a portable venue will be used for events throughout the Shire and can provide support to communities in the response and recovery phases of any future natural disasters.
Dr Sykes said, “The resilience of the Alpine Shire and the local communities is to be applauded as well as their determination to recover from drought, fire and floods over the past decade.”

Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes spoke passionately in Parliament this week about the plight of many communities throughout North East Victoria who have been impacted by recent floods.
Dr Sykes commenced his address by saying, “I wish to express my sympathy and concern for the many people who have been affected by the recent floods.
“The focus in most recent times, and rightly so, has been on the massive flood damage in North West Victoria, more recently in Melbourne, West Gippsland and of course Queensland.
“We should not forget the impact of the flood in North East Victoria and the many people who have been knocked around by them, in some cases three or four times.
“The Kiewa Valley had massive downpours which impacted on the Kiewa River and importantly during the October and December floods there was massive damage to the tributaries flowing into the Kiewa. Many people were isolated and a large amount of damage was done to roads and bridges.
“The Ovens Valley was particularly knocked around by the September floods and follow up floods have exacerbated that damage.
“Many people in the King Valley have been knocked around by flood damage not only to their properties and assets but also to their waterways.
“People in the King, Kiewa and Ovens valleys are already hurting from 10 to 12 years of drought, and for some the sudden cessation of the tobacco industry – for a lot of those people normal life has been suspended and they have been really affected emotionally.
“Properties around Upper Ryans Creek and Fifteen Mile Creek also sustained extensive damage, with hop farms being particularly badly damaged.
“In Benalla we escaped above the floor inundations, however it would be fair to say that there was a considerable number of nervous people.
“Further south there was flash flooding along Seven Creek and Castle Creek in the Euroa area, particularly in September. Down Avenel way there was also heavy run off on a couple of occasions. In the Goulburn River downstream of Eildon and the Upper Goulburn River around Jamieson there were also problems.
“We have worn our fair share of trouble, and a number of the issues that have come out of the floods in North East Victoria have also been reflected elsewhere. One of those issues is the effectiveness of the early warning systems.
“A lot of effort has been put into the recovery effort. There are still issues about the grants, with some people ‘falling through the cracks’, people who have moderate sized properties but earn off farm income; because they do not earn 51 per cent of their income from primary production or a business, those people are missing out, despite often having extensive damage to their property and assets and the waterway which flows through their place.
“A particular group of those people are the former tobacco farmers. That is an issue that needs addressing, and I know that the Deputy Premier and the Premier are aware of these issues. We want to make sure that the assistance measures we provide are equitable and that everyone gets a fair helping hand from the broader community.
“The net result of these floods is that a lot of people have been affected.
“There has been substantial response on the part of the government. There has also been a fantastic effort by our volunteer services (SES, CFA, the Red Cross and community in general).
“Times are tough but we will get through them. The main challenge is for people to support each other, not just financially but also emotionally because there are a lot of fragile people out there.
“On Monday, prior to coming to Melbourne, I had a person whom I consider very stable come into my office and say ‘Bill, I have had enough. I have been able to battle and do the recovery after the last four (floods), but this is the fifth hit. I am now coming and asking for help.
“We need to extend that help. The community needs to bind together, I am sure it will.
“I look forward to working with the community to ensure the best outcomes for the people in my electorate.”

Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes has welcomed a State Government commitment to establish two reviews into the 2010/2011 floods following lobbying from himself and other MP’s.
In Parliament this week, Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes welcomed an Environment and Natural Resources Committee inquiry into the management of waterways and flood mitigation infrastructure in response to concerns raised by many people affected by recent floods.
Dr Sykes also welcomed the Coalition State Government’s announcement of a comprehensive review of flood warnings and emergency response efforts to be undertaken in the wake of severe flooding across Victoria
Speaking in Parliament this week, Dr Sykes said, “I congratulate the Premier and Deputy Premier on their outstanding, decisive and compassionate leadership during the recent flood events.
“They have literally been everywhere; hearing and seeing first hand the problems being experienced by flood affected people and promptly putting in place appropriate assistance measures.”
Dr Sykes said that Victoria had endured some of the worst floods in living memory, with the impact from the deluge expected to be felt for months, and in some cases, years.
He said that some communities throughout North East Victoria have been devastated by successive floods which have caused repeated damage to homes, businesses and the agricultural sector.
Dr Sykes told Parliament, “In North East Victoria concerns have included the massive build up of debris and silt in major waterways, especially the King River and the Broken River immediately downstream of Benalla.
“There have also been many concerns about the willow removal program, in particular the failure to put in place adequate alternative bank stabilisation following the removal of the willows.”
Dr Sykes noted that North East Catchment Management Authority (NECMA) will conduct its own review of waterway management and said that there was a need for many millions of dollars to be made available to CMA’s and landholders for the repair of damaged waterways.
The review into flood warnings and emergency response will be led by Mr Neil Comrie, AO APM, former Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police and current Bushfire Royal Commission Interim Report Implementation Monitor. An interim report will be submitted to the Premier by 30 June and a final report is due on 1 December.
Advice will be sought from experts in the field of flood management and there will be extensive community consultation.
Enquiries about submissions to the Environment and Natural Resources Committee inquiry can be directed to enrc@parliament.vic.gov.au or check the Parliament of Victoria website at www.parliament.vic.gov.au/enrc.
Details on how submissions can be submitted to the review of flood warnings and emergency response will be released in the coming weeks.