Explore the Georges River

Activity 4: Investigate the river and its floodplain

Access the New South Wales State Emergency Service (NSW SES) resource website for the Georges and Woronora Rivers. Review the details regarding flood risks for the Georges River and examine the associated resources and maps. As you explore, look for data and evidence that demonstrate the relationship between the river, human settlements, and the surrounding areas.


Use the following questions to guide your investigation:
- What human activities might be exposed to flooding?
According to the NSW SES, where are the primary floodplains located?
- What data or evidence is required to determine whether a specific property is at risk of flooding?
- How might low-lying land adjacent to the river be affected when river levels rise?
- Why might the impacts of flooding vary between different locations along the same river?


Create a table with three columns, labeled as follows, to record your observations: "Geographical Feature," "Evidence Observed," and "What the Evidence Indicates."

Activity 5: Compare maps and images

When researching images and maps, compare them to illustrate the condition of the river, using an image of a historical flood from an official website.


Identify four differences and four similarities, taking into account the location of the riverbanks, the extent of the area affected by the flood, the volume of water, and the nature of the surrounding roads and buildings.
Use data and evidence to support your conclusions and explanations. For instance, rather than simply stating that an area might be at risk, specify the features visible in the images and maps that substantiate your analysis, and note any additional information that might be required to accurately assess the level of risk.

Activity 6: Investigate how people manage flood risk

Consult the official website of the New South Wales State Emergency Service (NSW SES) to gather information regarding flooding of the Georges River.
Describe the methods used by authorities and communities to prepare for floods, issue warnings, and respond to emergency situations.
Create a "cause and effect" diagram using the following terms:
Heavy rainfall → Increased surface runoff → Rising river levels → Potential for flooding → Impacts on people and places.
Explain each of these terms beneath the corresponding arrow. Keep in mind that actual flooding is the result of multiple factors, and that rainfall events do not necessarily lead to the same outcomes every time.
Finally, answer the following question:
How does geographical information help individuals understand, prepare for, and manage flood risks?
Support your answer with at least two examples based on your research.