General News
7 October, 2026
Fresh details lessen risks
OUTDATED Cassowary Coast flood maps have been renewed using fresh data about terrain, land conditions, major waterways and structures.
Updated rainfall records, recent flood observations and current industry methods were also used.
A Cassowary Coast Regional Council report said the models – a computer-based estimate of where water may travel and how deep or fast it may be during different-sized floods – assessed a range of possible floods, including future climate conditions.
“The renewed models provide a clearer regional picture of where flooding may occur,” the report said.
“They can help council plan for future flooding and help community members understand the flood behaviour shown for their locality.
Council’s previous regional flood study was completed in 2014.
“Since then, newer information about terrain, land conditions, major waterways and structures that influence regional flooding has become available,” the report said.
“The region has also experienced recent rainfall and flooding events. Council used this information and current industry methods to renew the models.”
Community consultation has closed with 27 submissions received. Council asked the community to share local flood knowledge and experiences to help inform the regional flood model update.
This included:
photos and videos of flooding
flood marks and observed flood levels
information about where floodwaters travelled
how long floodwaters remained in affected areas
Advertisementexperiences from recent flood events, including Tropical Cyclone Jasper and the February 2025 flooding.
“The highest level of feedback came from the Cardwell area, particularly around Roma and Gregory streets, where community members shared valuable local observations, experiences and flood information,” the report said.
“The community is now invited to explore the renewed regional flood maps and speak directly with the project team at upcoming drop-in sessions in Tully and Innisfail.
“The renewed flood models cover several study areas across the Cassowary Coast, including the Lower Johnstone and Moresby River, Liverpool and Maria Creeks, Mission Beach, Tully and Murray Rivers, and Meunga Creek.
At the sessions people can:
view the renewed flood maps
learn how to read and understand the information
find out what has changed
ask the project team questions about the modelling and your local area.
The sessions are:
Tully, Thursday 8 October from 9am-2pm at the Tully Library, 34 Bryant Street
Innisfail, Friday 9 October from 9am-2pm at the Innisfail Shire Hall, 70 Rankin Street.
For more go to information, visit www.observer.s.gy/jmFOk7
Read More: Cassowary Coast