Rockhampton LDMG activates Stand Up Phase

Published on 16 January 2026

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The Rockhampton Region Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) is urging residents to prepare for moderate flooding, following the Bureau of Meteorology’s forecast peak of 8 metres for the Fitzroy River.

LDMG Chair and Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said the river is expected to peak overnight Tuesday into Wednesday, with levels steadily rising in the days prior.

“We’re expecting the river to peak overnight Tuesday, and as water moves through Yaamba and into Rockhampton, however we’ll be seeing minor flooding from the weekend,” Mayor Williams said.

“This predicted peak sits within the moderate range and is likely to affect residents in low-lying areas of the Region, such as Depot Hill, Port Curtis, Fairy Bower, Pink Lily, Lakes Creek, Koongal, Berserker and Park Avenue.

“Right now, the greater risk for many residents is isolation rather than inundation, so we’re strongly urging people in low‑lying or potentially cut‑off areas to seek alternative accommodation while they still can.

“Although we’re still several days away from the peak, this is the ideal time to get prepared. A little planning now will make things much easier if conditions change later in the week.

“Flood maps are available on our Emergency Dashboard, and I encourage everyone to check how rising water may affect their property. If you know your home or business is likely to be impacted, start making sensible preparations early. It’s about being ready—not alarmed.”

If flooding is predicted to affect your home, you should:

  • Follow official warnings and check the Emergency Dashboard.
  • Clear your yard and secure loose outdoor items.
  • Make preparations for pets and livestock, including available locations to move livestock.
  • Move belongings and household items to higher levels and protect valuables with waterproof coverings.
  • Store chemicals in sealed, waterproof containers and move them up high.
  • Disconnect and secure gas cylinders above predicted flood height.
  • Turn off your main water valve.

Mayor Williams confirmed the LDMG has now moved to the Stand Up phase, with resources mobilised, personnel activated and operational activities underway.

“Our Local Disaster Coordination Centre is now operating as the hub for managing and coordinating all disaster operations,” he said.

“As part of our response, we are deploying the Water Street Flood Barrier as part of the North Rockhampton Flood Management Scheme.

“The 448‑metre barrier is designed to protect around 400 properties from inundation.

“Updates on other Council facilities will be provided in the coming days as we gain a clearer understanding of the river peak and how closely it aligns with predictions.”

Council continues to monitor conditions closely and will provide further updates as new information becomes available.

Residents are urged to stay informed via Council’s Emergency Dashboard: https://emergency.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/GeneralDashboardnew

Livingstone Shire Disaster Dashboard: https://disaster.livingstone.qld.gov.au/

Residents can contact the Local Disaster Coordination Centre on: 1300 652 659.

 

ENDS

 

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