Retford Farm Detention Basin Nears Completion

Published on 23 April 2024

The Retford Farm Detention Basin project is a major flood mitigation initiative nearing completion in Bowral, New South Wales. Designed to safeguard the township against the risks of flooding, the project involves the construction of a large basin capable of holding a staggering 320 million litres of water during a 1-in-100-year flood event. This impressive volume, equivalent to 128 Olympic swimming pools, will be temporarily stored and then released in a controlled manner through a piped structure, significantly reducing the flood peak and protecting homes and businesses. 

This vital infrastructure project is a collaborative effort between the Wingecarribee Shire Council and the Australian Government.  The Wingecarribee Shire Council secured a significant $4.61 million grant through the 2021-2022 National Flood Mitigation Infrastructure Program, funded by the Commonwealth Government. This grant represents the majority of the project's total cost of $6.15 million. The Council's contribution of $1.54 million demonstrates the commitment to the project and the safety and well-being of the Bowral community. 

Federal Member for Whitlam, Stephen Jones, recently visited the Retford Farm Detention Basin construction site in Bowral to witness progress on this critical flood mitigation project. 

Mr. Jones expressed his strong support: "It’s important all levels of government work together to reduce the impact of floods on regional communities like the Southern Highlands. That’s why the Commonwealth Government has invested more than $4.6 million for the Retford Farm Detention Basin, which will protect locals from future flooding events in Bowral. I’m pleased to see this project nearing completion and already proving to be effective during recent rain events,”  Mr Jones said.

The Retford Farm Detention Basin is a vital piece of infrastructure that will provide much-needed flood protection for the Bowral community. I'm pleased to see the project nearing completion and already demonstrating its effectiveness during recent rain events.  The Federal Government's commitment to funding flood mitigation projects like this one is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of our regional communities." 

 Significant Progress and Early Benefits: 

• The project is currently 50% complete.  

• During the recent rain event on April 5th-6th 2024, the embankment wall played a role in mitigating floodwaters. 

• Completion is expected in the second half of 2024.   

Importantly, an additional scope item has been awarded, including the construction of a weir on the upstream side of the piped culvert. This weir will provide further flood mitigation for smaller events, down to a 1-in-2-year and reduce flood levels downstream.  

“The additional weir included in the project scope further strengthens Bowral's flood mitigation strategy. This demonstrates our commitment to providing the highest level of protection for our residents and businesses,” said Wingecarribee Shire Council’s Director of Service and Project Delivery, Karin Targa. 

For more information on the Retford Farm Detention Basin project, please visit: Update Retford Farm Detention Basin