The drainage system includes almost 450km of pipes, and plays a vital role in preventing water build-up and flooding along roads, in parks, and on properties.
However, as the region experiences more intense rainfall events, Greater Shepparton City Council wants the community to know more about how this system works, why water sometimes takes longer to clear, and how residents can help keep water flowing.
“Our stormwater network is designed to move water away from roads and properties as efficiently as possible,” infrastructure director Gary Randhawa said.
However, Mr Randhawa said it was normal for water to sit for several hours after heavy or prolonged rainfall.
“Depending on conditions, local stormwater drainage typically takes three to four hours to subside, and in some cases, up to 10 hours,” he said.
“We ask residents to wait before reporting concerns, as this is usually part of the normal drainage process.”
Mr Randhawa said drainage maintenance was a key priority for the council, with a dedicated team that inspected and maintained drainage hotspots, particularly in areas with older pipes.
He said council was also working to upgrade parts of the system.
But residents also play a role in keeping things working efficiently.
Council is asking people to take steps such as disposing of green waste in green bins, instead of blowing leaves or grass clippings into the gutter.
It also advised residents to secure rubbish on windy days to prevent loose plastic and litter ending up in the drains.
“Our teams often find surprising things in blocked drains — from toys and keys to mobile phones and false teeth,” Mr Randhawa said.
“Keeping rubbish out of stormwater drains not only helps reduce blockages but also protects our environment.”
Council requests that residents report a drain that appears to be clogged and hasn’t cleared within a reasonable time.
You can learn more about drainage in Greater Shepparton at shepp.city/DrainageUnplugged2025
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