The following navigation warning is published for general information.

Australia – Victoria

Local Navigation Warning No.6 of 2023

Gippsland Floodwater and Debris Navigation Warning

DATE:  5th October 2023

DETAILS:  

Mariners are advised that the Australian Bureau of Meteorology is maintaining a flood watch across Eastern Victoria.

River levels are elevated across multiple locations following recent heavy rainfall.

Minor to major flood warnings are current for the Macalister, Latrobe, Wonnangatta, Mitchell, Tambo and Avon Rivers. Minor flooding is possible across the rest of the flood watch area.

Catchments likely to be affected include:

• Snowy River
• Tambo River
• Mitchell River
• Avon River
• Macalister River
• Thomson River
• Latrobe River

Gippsland Ports will monitor river heights for further Warnings and Notices.

In the meantime, Mariners are reminded that debris caused by flood water including large trees and timbers may find its way downstream and affect the safe navigation of vessels within the Gippsland Rivers and Lake systems.

For information on weather and rising flood water levels go to: http://www.bom.gov.au/.

Gippsland Ports recommends downloading the VicEmergency App.

Gippsland Ports strongly advises against the operation of vessels in flood affected waters or driving vehicles through flood water.

Mariners should take extra precaution if it is necessary to operate vessels in rivers and creeks following rain events and be aware of the possible presence of new debris hazards.

Please contact Gippsland Ports on (03) 51 500 500 to report navigation hazards.

For the Gippsland Lakes, Mariners are advised that floodwaters from the catchment areas of the entire lakes system can only exit through the ocean entrance to the Gippsland Lakes. Floodwater increases the velocity of the flow of the ebb tide in the navigable channels near Lakes Entrance and the Entrance Channel and causes heightened safety risk when attempting Bar crossings.

Mariners are advised to expect higher than predicted tides throughout the Gippsland Lakes System. The flow of the ebb tide at its peak in the Entrance channel may exceed 6 knots at times.

Vessel owners and operators should ensure that berthed or moored vessels are watertight, properly secured and regularly check mooring lines and swing mooring cables.   

Publications Affected:

Gippsland Ports Waterways Online website at https://www.gippslandports.vic.gov.au/boating/waterways-online/

Further Notice:

A further notice will be issued.

David Ashworth

Acting Harbour Master