a tremendous lightning display preceded the weekend’s significant rain event, with areas in the district recording more than 4 inches of rainfall between Friday evening and Tuesday morning.

Many locals could be found on Friday night with their heads craned towards the sky. Some tested their photographic skills, attempting to capture a bolt across the sky or horizon. Most just stood in awe – “Oooohing” and “Ahhhhing” over Nature’s own fireworks display. And it was magnificent!

The only thing to top a show like that was the much needed downpour that followed, drenching the entire region with steady, soaking rain. Drought conditions have been desperate, with barely a lick of green to be seen, the rain was warmly welcomed, and not just for the farmers who will be relieved to have a full moisture profile heading into the sowing season.

Roadways and rivers

Just last week, the Richardson River, as could be seen from the Bullock’s Head Lookout, was looking very dismal indeed. Not only was there a rotten smell drifting from the direction of the water, it had also turned pink in places and a dirty mauve colour in other areas, with increased salinity and sediment.

After all the rain and run-off, the Richardson is flowing again, if only for a brief time, it is hoped to be rinsed of all that muck before the predicted dry Autumn.

Flooding over roads has occurred in some areas of the district, though most were able to be crossed with caution, it is always recommended to avoid driving through flood water of any kind. Buloke Shire Council was prepared for worsening conditions, alerting the public to the availability of a sand bag station at the Donald depot. It didn’t appear to get much use though, with the rain generally more steady than heavy. It was Sunday that received the most of the rain, with nearly an inch falling in Donald overnight.

The Avoca River in Charlton didn’t appear to move much in its levels, though there was some water over roads in town, with insufficient drainage to divert the deluge. Many paddocks in Birchip turned into shallow lakes and now sit gently soaking into the soil; much the same as the entire district. While in places, there are creeks which remain dry, some dams had been cleaned and will be collecting run-off. And don’t forget of course, water tanks filled to the brim is always a happy sight for those on the farm. Even in town, particularly those with carefully tended lawns and gardens, would appreciate this heavy soaking.

Although it certainly won’t end the drought, the rain was gratefully received by everyone. Even by Monday, with its steady drizzle all day long, and when conditions were so muggy it turned moods melancholy, most still could not complain, not when it was so desperately needed.

Rainfall

Rainfall for the 7 days to 9.30 a.m, Wednesday, March 3:

This article appeared in The Buloke Times, 5 March 2026.