It is business as usual for Bents Basin Conservation Area after its campground and picnic areas had been restored last week following the heavy rain and flood waters.
According to Shaun Elwood, Nattai Office of Environment and Heritage area manager, the picnic and camping area was completely engulfed by severe flood in June.
“Some places the water rose 9m above normal,” Shaun said.
Chris Semmens, acting senior field officer said: “The debris was stuck about 8m up in the trees’’.
“A lot of chainsaw work had to be done,” he said.
“I think the last flood of this type happened before I was born.”
Acting Senior field officer for the Nattai area Chris Semmens at Bents Basin. Picture: Justin Sanson
They had to remove fallen trees and debris and almost half a meter of residue, some were even trapped high over the tree awnings.
On a positive note, Mr. Elwood said that in about six weeks, the grass along the fenced off areas would grow back and there would again be tons of wide-open spaces for picnic and camping.
“With the warmer weather fast approaching we are pleased to reopen this site.
“The flood waters from June’s devastating east coast low caused significant damage to park infrastructure including the Bents Basin Road carpark, internal access tracks and amenities.
“This damage generated a safety risk which is why the park was closed and allowed for clean-up work.”
According to Shaun, in the parks 25 years, the flood water recorded was the highest flood level known by NPWS.
Durrawi picnic area after the flooding, causing damage to access trails and walking trails
“Flood water peaked at least two metres over the Bents Basin Road carpark. The road was under water and impassable between the Bents Basin office and the campground and between the campground and Durrawi Picnic Area.
“Now that the clean-up work has been completed, the campground and both picnic areas are open at Bents Basin State Conservation Area.”
With great pride he said that this recreational area is best for picnic, unwinding, or walks with its sensational bushland backdrop. It is a wonderful campsite and they have picnic facilities just around the area.
For more information on Bents Basin State Conservation Area visit national parks.nsw.gov.au
Full article by Pranesh Nageshwar courtesy of News Local.
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