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Preface
Extreme or unusual
weather conditions hold a fascination for many of us. Often, such
conditions result in events which impact on our lives or livelihoods. One
such event is flooding. Floodwaters can have a huge impact on our lives.
They can be destructive and disruptive. Damage to property and land can
sometimes be devastating. In some instances, people and animals die.
South Australia is,
for the most part, a dry state. However, we do have flood events, some of
which have been significant. The purpose of this book and the
accompanying interactive DVD is to bring together, in one comprehensive
package, nearly 170 years of flood records in this State. The information
contained within should provide valuable reference to a diverse range of
people, including historians, researchers, hydrologists and other
interested readers.
In excess of 20,000
hours of research, writing, editing, and designing has gone into the
production of this package. All the information was sourced from
newspapers, books, and manuscripts, dating back to the first European
settlement in 1836. The inclusion of the DVD enhances ease of access to
the comprehensive range of information on flood events.
The compilation of
this book and DVD has been a considerable undertaking over five years. On
behalf of the Bureau of Meteorology, I would like to congratulate all
those involved in the project. Special acknowledgement goes to the
volunteers who gave their time and expertise to ensure the project was
kept on track and fully realised. Along with the contribution of their
knowledge and skills, they also undertook supervisory roles. I
acknowledge also all the Work for the Dole participants who contributed
over 16,000 hours of time towards the project. The quality and array of
skills they brought, from many disciplines, were considerable and
invaluable.
The assistance of
the Community Work Coordinators from ‘Ask Employment and Training
Services’ in Port Augusta; and ‘Employment Options Incorporated’ on Yorke
Peninsula was very much appreciated. All coordinators worked closely with
the project management team to provide skilled participants. Additional
thanks go to the Commonwealth Department of Employment and Workplace
Relations and to the Project Steering Committee.
Everyone involved
in this Flood History Project should be proud of the result. This book
and DVD is a high quality package of a comprehensive inventory of flood
events in South Australia over the past 170 years, and as such will
endure as a significant contribution to the recent natural history of
South Australia.
Andrew Watson
Regional Director
South Australian Regional Office
Bureau of Meteorology
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