Severe weather conditions have wreaked havoc across the Tweed Heads to Gold Coast hinterland, with damaged trees causing disruptions and power outages unprecedented in Queensland. In a particularly reckless display, one motorist was seen driving beneath a tree that had fallen on power lines, while social media showcased various other risky behaviours amid the chaos.
The cyclone, identified as Alfred, had a notable impact, including the destruction of the jumbo golf ball landmark at Mermaid Beach Putt Putt. Premier David Crisafulli addressed the situation, assuring residents that preparations for the cyclone would allow for a smoother recovery process in the coming days.
The Currumbin Vikings Surf Club was particularly hard-hit, flooded with foam and impacted by high storm surges that have eroded their car park and filled their ground floor with water. CEO Michael Sullivan stated that this was the worst damage they had experienced in decades, highlighting the abnormal intensity of the ocean’s forces. In response, the club has initiated a fundraising appeal to aid their recovery.
Other areas were not spared either, as Moreton Bay islands felt the cyclone’s fury. The clean-up efforts will be extensive, with many communities recovering from the widespread damage. Despite the challenges, Queenslanders are starting to shift their focus toward rebuilding. The impact of Cyclone Alfred serves as a reminder of nature’s power and the importance of preparedness in the face of such extreme weather events.