In August 1974 and again in June 1975 two major floods occurred in the Shoalhaven River and large areas of land between Nowra and the coast were inundated for several days. After the floods receded, it was observed that considerable amounts of sand and silt had been deposited in the river and it was suggested that the presence of these shoals will aggravate the flooding problem. Late in 1975 Council approached the Department of Urban and Regional Development to provide assistance under the Area Improvement Program to remove the shoals by dredging. Council was advised that before expenditure of funds on works would be considered, a study would be required to investigate and report on the impact of the dredging and reclamation proposals. The terms of reference of this study delineated several objectives. These are listed as follows:
- review effectiveness of past flood mitigation works, flood levees and flood plain usage and advise on areas where further works could be effective. Particular attention to be given to existing riverside industries and residential development.
- define historical trends of river alignment between Nowra Golf Course and Comarong Island and likely future trends to assist Council to determine a policy for bank protection.
- ascertain as much information as possible on lower river siltation, from which the usefulness and stability of various major or local dredging proposals can be examined in relation to benefits for channel improvement or flood mitigation.
- advise Council on the results of the study and on the policy and development options.
- liaise with the Study Review Sub-Committee consisting of a representative of the District Engineer of the Department of Public Works, the Shire Engineer and a Shoalhaven Shire Councillor nominated for that purpose.
- review the effectiveness and suitability of Council's building and development control policies in the study area.
