Pictured: John Guegan, former Maribyrnong Flood Warden.

The river was unpredictable, but the flood wardens helped make the community more resilient. They:

• monitored the river
• shared stories of past floods
• prepared other residents for the challenges ahead.

But as time went on, their role became less prominent. Modern solutions, technological advances and changing priorities meant their presence was greatly diminished by the time of 2022 flood. Communities grappled with the rising waters, but without the localised, people-led structure the wardens provided, the response lacked the same cohesion and familiarity.

There’s now growing recognition of the wisdom in bringing back the flood wardens. In an era where storms are becoming more frequent and intense, their approach feels ahead of its time. Reintroducing flood wardens could mean stronger communities – ones that are connected, informed and prepared to face the future together.