By Tyler Wright
The Kallista Floodwatch Group has received notice that the Department of Transport will work toward plans for long-term drainage solutions along Monbulk Road, after three incidents of flash flooding this year alone.
It is understood the Department of Transport is assessing long-term solutions for Kallista, with a time frames dependant on varying factors.
“We are extremely grateful for the Department’s concern and interest in working with the community to solve these issues that have impacted our area for more than 40 years,” Kallista Flood Watch Group member Karen Kestigian said.
“It’s also a very positive sign to be getting support from both the Department of Transportation and Yarra Ranges Shire infrastructure teams in the meantime for ongoing maintenance issues.”
Substantial temporary work has been undertaken including regular cleaning of drains and culverts along Monbulk Road, and DoT will continue to carry out regular inspections of Monbulk Road and undertake drain cleaning works as part of its maintenance program.
This comes after Monbulk’s Labor candidate in the upcoming state election, Daniela De Martino, and Liberal candidate Gareth Ward came together to supply around 50 sandbags for Kallista residents amid concerns of flash flooding damage after heavy rainfall in October.
“The Storm Water Drainage Improvement Project is so important to the impacted residents. Their valuable assets and peace of mind. We look forward to working with DoT and the Yarra Ranges Shire for both short term remedial support and for the long-term resolution to the flash flooding,” Ms Kestigian said.
Sam Boratav, Owner of the Kallista Tea Rooms; a business which has been heavily impacted by the effects of flash flooding, said a long term drainage solution benefits the entire stretch of Monbulk Road, “particularly the tourists who come to the Kallista Tearooms and visitors to the area who enjoy the surrounding environment”.
“It is important for us to provide comfort and hospitality particularly with our outdoor dining facilities which our clients appreciate so much,” Mr Boratav said.
A DoT spokesperson said as the state copes with “above average rainfall,” crews are “continuing to inspect and clear the drainage system around Kallista”.
“We’re also working with the Shire of Yarra Ranges and the local community to develop potential long-term drainage improvements on Monbulk Road,” the DoT spokesperson said.
“We’ll continue to monitor the area and thank the community for their patience.”
Members of the community who come across flooding or damage on roads are encouraged by DoT to report them by calling the dedicated Department of Transport customer service hotline on 13 11 70.
