After 339 incident responses, including 65 resupply missions, the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has begun winding down its flood response operations in Western NSW, following weeks of major flooding across the region that left many communities isolated.

Flooding began in late March after heavy rainfall in Queensland caused significant rises in the Paroo, Warrego and Darling rivers. On Monday, April 7, floodwaters at Wanaaring surpassed the 1990 record height, isolating residents across a broad catchment area.

NSW SES State Duty Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Allison Flaxman ESM, commended the tireless efforts of volunteers who supported impacted communities over several weeks.

“This was a prolonged campaign flood which saw the NSW SES support rural properties and homesteads in Wanaaring, Bourke, Walgett, Louth, Tilpa, Wilcannia, Hungerford, Yantabulla, Fords Bridge, Gumbalie, Enngonia, to name a few,” she said.

“It was a coordinated approach with the NSW SES deploying community information teams, rescue teams, high clearance vehicles and aviation assets throughout large parts of the state.”

Although the flooding has now eased, some roads remain impacted by residual water. The Darling River at Menindee Town is currently at 3.37 metres and falling, and the Menindee Lakes are expected to manage any remaining floodwaters.

The SES responded to 339 incidents during the emergency, including 65 resupply missions to residents cut off by floodwaters. While formal flood operations are ending, the SES will continue supporting long-term isolated residents as the region transitions to recovery.