In the wake of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, communities across Southeast Queensland and Northern New South Wales are experiencing a mix of relief and devastation as they contend with the repercussions of the storm. As recovery efforts gear up, a remarkable array of initiatives is underway, from safeguarding endangered wildlife to providing financial assistance for local businesses.
One of the most heartwarming stories comes from the shores of Queensland, where ninety-nine endangered loggerhead turtle hatchlings were safely returned to their natural habitat. Rescued from their nest before the cyclone made landfall, teams from Sea World Foundation and TurtleWatch Gold Coast worked tirelessly to relocate the vulnerable eggs, ensuring their survival front stacking with inclement weather. After 11 days of careful incubation at Sea World, the hatchlings were released back onto Tallebudgera and South Stradbroke Island beaches on March 21, 2025.
“Marine turtles imprint on the location where they commence their run when emerging from the nest,” Siobhan Houlihan, Sea World Foundation aquarium supervisor, explained to 7NEWS.com.au. “So it was important we returned them to a location with adequate dunes and low-light-pollution which will be safe for them to return to when they are adults to nest themselves.” The return of these hatchlings serves not only as a symbol of hope for the future but also as a critical part of the recovery of the endangered species.
On the other side of the recovery spectrum, the Australian Football League (AFL) has stepped up to support 21 local clubs devastated by the cyclone. The AFL provided immediate grants to assist with urgent repairs to grounds and changerooms, replace lost or damaged equipment, and help cover insurance costs. In total, more than 80 community clubs across the region were contacted to assess the damage.
AFL CEO Andrew Dillion expressed empathy towards affected communities, saying, “I know how devastating the impact these weather events can have on families and local businesses in Southeast Queensland and Northern New South Wales.” He emphasized the critical role community clubs play, stating, “All community clubs are not only key members of the AFL family and a great place for players, coaches, volunteers, and supporters, but also play such an important role in connecting and providing a meeting place for the wider community, particularly at times like now.”
The cyclone's impact on infrastructure was formidable, as Ampol's Lytton refinery reported damages upwards of $35 million due to Cyclone Alfred. Ahead of the storm’s arrival, Ampol had placed the refinery in a “safe recirculation mode,” resulting in approximately 10 days of lost production. The storm caused significant damage to one of the refinery's crude storage tanks, amounting to a repair cost of $20 million. Additionally, the company anticipates incurring $5 million per month in demurrage costs for three months as it works to optimize its supply chain.
“Around half of the costs are expected to be recovered through insurance,” stated Ampol management. The Lytton refinery is a crucial facility for fuel production, being one of only two oil refineries remaining in Australia and the nation’s largest.
The agricultural sector was also severely impacted, particularly in the Northern Rivers region. Local farmers reported significant losses, with many suffering over 50% of crop damage as a result of the cyclone. Tom Carey, manager of the Byron Farmers Market, remarked on the broad scale of destruction, highlighting the devastating impact on banana farmers and the struggles faced by newer farmers like Julia Bolam and Taylor Jamieson of Rosebery Growers.
Julia described how a flash flood inundated their organic vegetable and flower farm: “The creek broke the banks and caused a flash flood/flash river to travel through about 60 percent of our market garden... the top soil loss is the worst part as we had been working on the soil for years.” Recovery for banana farmers is expected to take around 12-18 months back to full production, and the couple anticipates “likely missing five to seven weeks’ worth of farmers' markets” as they initiate the long process of restoring their crops.
In response to the cyclone's aftermath, the NSW Reconstruction Authority has been pivotal in assisting over 5,680 people in Northern NSW. Via Recovery Assistance Points located in key areas, including Lismore and Tweed Heads, the Authority is providing essential support services, including grocery vouchers, legal aid, and hardship grants. Open from March 24 through 28 in multiple locations, these points aim to ensure that recovery assistance reaches those most in need.
For individuals affected by prolonged power outages or evacuation orders, Service NSW is offering Personal Hardship Assistance Payments of $180 for individuals and up to $900 for families. As of now, Service NSW has distributed approximately $1.5 million in these payments to assist Northern NSW residents in their recovery.
The reconstruction efforts also extend to small businesses and primary producers, who may qualify for concessional loans up to $130,000 and transport subsidies of up to $15,000 through the Natural Disaster Declaration. These initiatives showcase the essential community solidarity that arises in times of crisis.
The impacts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred will be felt for a long time in affected regions, but the ongoing support from organizations, community members, and local businesses is proving to be a strong lifeline. As families and businesses begin to recover, the community remains steadfast in its commitment to rebuild and look toward a brighter future.
