By KATRINA BRANDON

 

LOCAL roads were recently flooded due to heavy rainfall.

The message has been reiterated: “DO NOT DRIVE THROUGH FLOOD WATERS!”

Morwell citizen Dayna Milito drove through floodwaters at the Moe Princes Freeway exit (Traralgon bound, alongside McDonald’s), only to suffer the consequences.

Ms Milito told the Express that, as a new driver, she had her emotions running wild in that moment.

“It literally was (as I was) coming off the freeway,” she said.

“I was going a little bit slower on the freeway anyway, because otherwise I felt like I would have hit that puddle a little bit harder than I did, and then I feel like it could have been a lot more dangerous.”

When entering the exit, Ms Milito said there was only a small sign up on the road before the exit, a fair way up from the flooded area, causing confusion about the location of the incident.

The floodwater was around 15mm deep, which, as a new driver, she said was like driving through a puddle until all hell broke loose.

“Driving through the floodwater just felt sort of like when you just drive through a normal puddle; the big sort of resistance,” she said.

“I drove through it probably a bit faster than I should have. I think I was driving through it at 40, and that splashback got up and into my air filter, into my engine, and it bent a piston rod. My engine is completely damaged. It’s going to need a rebuild.

“I believe there was a very small sign up the road just before that exit. In retrospect, that time was not far enough up the road for anyone to slow down. It was like the tiniest little sign. I’m just thankful I saw that sign because, when I did, I took my foot off the accelerator. I was going about 80. That dropped me down to 40, and that’s when I pretty much hit the pedal.”

According to Ms Milito, flooding over the exit is not a new issue, as it is known to have drainage problems.

The Princes Freeway and the exit in question are the responsibility of the Department of Transport and Planning.

In response to the issue, a Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson told the Express that maintenance crews attended the Princes Freeway near Moe the day of the incident to conduct inspections following reports of water across the road.

Crews continue regular inspections of the road networks, including the Princes Freeway, to monitor conditions and perform maintenance as required.

The spokesperson said that following extreme weather events, the department’s immediate focus is always on ensuring the area is safe and that any damage is repaired as soon as possible.

“We’re investing a record $1.04 billion to rebuild, repair and resurface roads across Victoria – with 70 per cent of the funds going to regional Victoria, including in the state’s east,” they said.

“Maintenance teams are currently out fixing roads throughout Latrobe Valley and right across the state – and continue to regularly inspect the road network for repairs.

“Our focus is on keeping our roads safe following recent heavy rainfall and storms across the state.”

Latrobe City Council Chief Executive, Steven Piasente, also responded to the incident.

“Council is responsible for more than 1500 kilometres of local roads across Latrobe City, and the Victorian government through the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) is responsible for major arterial roads and freeways across the state,” he said.

“The road at the Moe freeway interchange is state-managed, and any concerns regarding this road should be directed to DTP. Council takes a proactive approach to maintaining the local road network, including a cyclical program of road resurfacing, drainage improvements and pavement repairs to help protect roads from water damage and extend their lifespan.

“Council appreciates residents taking the time to report road issues, and remains committed to maintaining safe and reliable local roads for the community.”

People in the community are encouraged to report any hazards on the network, including potholes, by calling 13 11 70.

For more information, go to: https://www.ses.vic.gov.au/plan-and-stay-safe/emergencies/flood