A Victorian retirement village has seen 46 villas damaged by the recent flooding along the Maribyrnong River.

Rivervue Retirement Village at Avondale Heights in Melbourne’s inner northwest was forced to evacuate residents as the river burst its banks, damaging homes in the village as well as community facilities, grounds and gardens.

According to Kelvin Lloyd, Village Manager, management and residents worked together to make sure everyone involved was safe and well-informed.

“Our emergency response procedures were put in place immediately and helped to keep everyone safe. Our community worked as one, as neighbours worked tirelessly to support those affected.

“Staff, community organisations and kind-hearted local residents all worked to ensure the wellbeing of residents with food and water, and accommodation and support. Clean up crews worked through the weekend and remain on site. We are grateful to everyone for this huge effort,” he said.

Rectification work has begun, and Rivervue is consulting with its insurer to offer temporary accommodation to affected residents.