Queenslanders rally!

If you’re reading this, you’re most likely still waiting for Tropical Cyclone Alfred’s best efforts to wreak havoc. There’s a solid chance you’ve got power, or at least a power bank to access your phone, and you’re trying to keep yourself entertained as millions of residents in Brisbane and beyond hunker down for protection. 

As I write this, more than 500 schools across the state are closed, public transport is suspended, as are elective surgeries, major roads and bridges may be off-limits, and almost 20,000 properties in the city have the potential to be impacted by some form of inundation or flooding. 

Tropical Cyclone Nancy has been the closest cyclone to Brisbane, turning up in 1990 before pivoting south just off the coastline and failing to make landfall. Tropical Cyclone Wanda, however, managed to cross near K’gari and Hervey Bay, triggering Brissie’s 1974 floods. In 1954, ‘The Great Gold Coast Cyclone’ crossed over Coolangatta.

While not regularly prepared for cyclonic conditions, Queenslanders in the southeast are built tough (as tough as our mates up north), and have already survived the city being flooded three times in the past 15 years. After a wet summer, and predictions of Alfred delivering daily rainfall totals between 200 – 400mm, there’s a high chance the ‘mud army’ will unfortunately be called upon to rally again. 

For real-time updates and assistance, call QLD SES on 132 500. For life-threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero. 

Stay safe and please reach out for support.

Matt Lancashire