The Bertha Street Outfall Extension project involved extending the main drainage outfall located at Picnic Point Beach A stormwater outfall is a pipe where rainwater that has collected in drains and pipes is released back into the ocean. It is the end point of the drainage system where all the rainwater flows out. This helps prevent flooding in urban areas by directing excess water away from streets and buildings.

Water ponding and flooding have been occurring in the vicinity of Queen Street, Bertha Street, and Josephine Street due to sand blockages in the existing outfall. These blockages reduce the outfall’s capacity, which in turn causes upwelling and flooding in local streets. This project is one way Council is working towards resolving flooding concerns by improving the overall drainage system in the area. Currently Council regularly clears the end of the outfall with excavators at a significant ongoing cost.

The project is designed to have minimal environmental impacts. Council is working closely with experts to ensure that the project is carried out in an environmentally responsible way while protecting the surrounding beach and wildlife. Council has developed a Penguin Management Plan and is working with Contractor to ensure this is adhered to.