Council’s Acting General Manager Todd Williams and Deputy General Manager Operations Ashley Greenwood, highlighted the severe impacts on both state and local roads, including significant landslips in Deer Vale and extensive damage in Kalang and Darkwood.

Advertise with News of The Area today.
It’s worth it for your business.
Message us.
Phone us – (02) 4981 8882.
Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au

The visit included a site inspection of the landslip at Newell Falls, with Transport for NSW and Council crews currently working hard to restore access to this major thoroughfare as quickly as possible.

Crews have cleared some fallen trees, but large rocks and unstable trees remain on the upslope, posing ongoing risks.

Bellingen Shire Mayor Steve Allan passed on his concern for affected communities, particularly in Dorrigo, which recorded some of the highest rainfall in the state during this event.

“When Waterfall Way is cut off, it presents significant challenges including the isolation of Dorrigo and surrounding communities,” Mayor Allan said.

“Residents are unable to use this route for work, education, and essential supplies, and most critically, emergency services face major challenges reaching those in need.

“This most recent event is another example of why we need to have reliable alternative routes available when Waterfall Way is impacted and a strengthened more resilient network to withstand increasing weather events.”

Mr Williams, Council’s acting GM, said the scale across the Shire is significant, with multiple roads affected.

“We know these disruptions are frustrating for residents, and we are pushing for urgent repairs and clear timelines for reopening key routes, however safety of both the workers on site and our community is paramount,” he said.

Council will share further updates as they become available.

Residents are encouraged to monitor Live Traffic NSW, Transport for NSW and Bellingen Shire Council channels for the latest information.