Paroo Shire Council engaged SHEPHERD to support flood recovery across its vast road network, following multiple disaster events. Since January 2024, SHEPHERD has delivered three reconstruction projects on time and within budget, while continuing to support new and emerging recovery works across the region.
The Challenge
After being impacted by a series of flood events in 2022 and 2024, Paroo Shire Council needed a trusted delivery partner to manage complex DRFA submissions and reconstruction works. The Queensland Reconstruction Authority recommended SHEPHERD based on prior successful project delivery. Council was seeking a provider with deep experience in flood recovery, compliance and asset restoration to ensure timely, high-quality outcomes.
The Solution
SHEPHERD mobilised to Paroo in early 2024 and has since delivered a full suite of disaster recovery services:
- Damage assessments and flood-damage pickup across the Shire’s road network
- DRFA submission preparation, lodgement, and ongoing management through QRA
- Project management and contract administration across multiple declared events
- Onsite delivery support, inspections and quality assurance aligned with QRA guidelines
To date, SHEPHERD has successfully completed the January 2022, September 2022, and January 2024 events, and is actively delivering the March 2025 event.
What We Did Differently and Why It Mattered
SHEPHERD introduced several fit-for-purpose tools and systems that increased efficiency, improved documentation, and helped Council better manage local resources:
- A custom-built Gravel Pit Management System to support resource planning, quality control and compliance
- Use of Fulcrum and Recover for real-time digital field capture and construction verification
- Centralised reporting tools for clear communication between Council, contractors and QRA
Our experienced onsite team worked closely with Council staff to ensure smooth coordination, accurate data capture, and fully compliant submissions. Projects were delivered within approved budgets and timeframes, with positive feedback from QRA on the consistency and quality of documentation.
Delivered in Partnership
SHEPHERD’s collaboration with Paroo Shire Council has restored key public infrastructure, strengthened future resilience, and positioned Council to respond more efficiently to future events. Reconstruction costs for the March 2025 event are estimated to exceed $60 million, and SHEPHERD will continue supporting Council through ongoing assessments, submissions and delivery.
This partnership reflects the value of combining on-ground experience with practical innovation to deliver smarter disaster recovery outcomes for regional communities.
