Morpeth Levee Restoration Complete, Ensuring Flood Protection for Local Community

The NSW Government has officially completed vital repair work on the Morpeth Levee, strengthening the town’s defences against future floods. This project forms part of a larger restoration effort under the Hunter Valley Flood Mitigation Scheme, initiated after severe flooding caused significant erosion in 2021 and 2022.

The completed works include the full reconstruction of a 280-metre section of the levee, with the installation of over 25,000 tonnes of rock to stabilise the riverbank along the Hunter River. Large-scale equipment, including 48-tonne long-reach excavators operating from barges, was used to position rocks up to 1 metre in size underwater, reinforcing the levee’s base. Smaller rocks, between 40 and 70cm, were placed on the upper embankment to further support the structure.

These upgrades are designed to provide long-term protection for Morpeth and surrounding areas, which are prone to flooding. With the levee repairs now finalised, Maitland City Council has confirmed that Brisbane Fields Road will be reopened without the load restrictions that were in place during the emergency repair period.

Morpeth Levee is just one of 14 sites under the Hunter Valley Flood Mitigation Scheme that require restoration, and work continues on other flood-damaged areas across the region.

Minister for Water, Rose Jackson, highlighted the importance of these repairs, noting, “The Hunter Valley Flood Mitigation Scheme safeguards thousands of people and their properties. With these works complete, the community can face future weather events with confidence.”

Jenny Aitchison, Member for Maitland, also praised the efforts, stating, “This project is a game-changer for Morpeth, ensuring the safety of local residents and road users. It’s taken years of advocacy, but thanks to the Minns Labor Government, the community now has the flood protection it deserves.”

For more information about the ongoing projects under the Hunter Valley Flood Mitigation Scheme, visit the NSW Department of Water website.