After severe weather in late 2024 and early 2025 caused widespread rainfall and flood impacts, Ipswich City Council engaged SHEPHERD to support flood damage assessment and help prepare a complete DRFA submission package. Using advanced assessment methods and GIS‑enabled systems, SHEPHERD delivered timely, evidence‑based data that Council can use to secure funding and restore critical infrastructure.
The Challenge
The late 2024 / early 2025 rainfall and flooding event impacted both sealed and unsealed roads across the Ipswich region. Council needed a partner who could rapidly assess damage, log defects, determine treatments, and prepare DRFA submission evidence, all while managing risk and maximising outcomes for the community.
The Solution
SHEPHERD deployed RACAS® technology to capture and assess damage across High Priority Sealed Roads, the entire unsealed road network, and culverts requiring attention for both Emergent and Reconstruction Works. Using the new RACAS® Hub Site, defect logging was completed within a week of roads being driven, enabling progressive scope and cost estimates.
Key actions included:
- Rapid flood damage assessment across sealed and unsealed networks
- Culvert inspections for emergency and reconstruction work requirements
- Defect logging and treatment determination using RACAS® and the Hub Site
- Delivery of a fully prepared Form 7 submission ready for review and upload into the MARS portal
What We Did Differently and Why It Mattered
Rather than simply capture static data, SHEPHERD used real‑time logging and GIS‑enabled systems to provide Council with progressively updated evidence and scope, allowing for earlier insights and stronger submission foundations. Delivering defect data within the same week of capture meant Council could begin reviewing damage estimates sooner, reducing bottlenecks and supporting a faster overall DRFA process.
Council now has a completed Form 7 submission package, ready for review and lodgement with the Queensland Reconstruction Authority.
Delivered in Partnership
Thank you to Ipswich City Council and to SHEPHERD Inspectors Debie Wood, Jono King, and Beau Codrington for their timely and efficient work onsite. This project reflects what can be achieved when collaborative delivery, innovative tools, and structured assessment come together to support regional recovery and community resilience.
