RAISING homes above flood levels is an achievable option, according to the draft Korong Vale Flood study presented at a community meeting last week.
The study’s four options are now out for community discussion on future flood mitigation work for the town.
WMS Engineering’s report says the raising of homes “can be treated as a more achievable option in Korong Vale town”.
“However, prior to progressing to the raising of a dwelling, it would first be necessary to undertake a voluntary house raising feasibility study.” the report says.
“The study is to include discussions with each eligible and agreeable property owner, as well as a detailed assessment of each property to determine a priority order and costing for each.”
Consultants say three houses would need to be raised 30cm for floorboards to be above previous flood heights.
“Due to the short duration of flooding and the predominance of timber floored houses on stumps, house raising was considered as one of the mitigated options,’ they say.
They say the project could cost up to $500,000.
Other options in the draft study have price tags up to $6 million.
One has VicTrack building a drain through the railway yards.  “A large drain running on the east of the railway yard connecting the existing brick channel is proposed to divert floodwaters towards the north. 
“In frequent storm events, the railway yard drain is able to hold and convey overland flows to mitigate flood risks. Although flood levels at Vernon Street and Allen Street may increase in rare events, hazard categories are not changed. It is recommended to seek support from VicTrack to pursue this option further given potential issues in building a drain in the railway yard.”
Consultants have also proposed overland flow from an upgraded channel diverted into the large drains along each side of Vernon Street with a new box culvert underneath, but instead of diverting flows into the north direction, the proposed drain is towards the east, ending in farmland and a drain in Davies Lane.
The study has also called for a flood warden network in Korong Vale to strengthen the Wedderburn State Emergency Service and Korong Vale CFA Fire Brigade unit capacity to manage major floods. 
“The wardens can be tasked with the direct communication of Flood Warnings to the 32 properties affected by flooding.”