Cyclone Alfred is making its presence felt across Queensland, with significant concerns for local events and farmers as the storm threatens to deliver heavy rain and damaging wind gusts. Currently tracking southeast at 13 kilometers per hour, the cyclone is projected to reach category two strength, which will have serious repercussions for planned activities along the region’s coastline.
The Mooloolaba Triathlon, known as Australia’s second largest triathlon, is set to be held this upcoming weekend on March 8 and 9, gathering over 5,000 athletes and hundreds of volunteers. Organizers are closely monitoring the situation as they prepare for what could be challenging conditions. Rebecca van Pooss, the head of operations for the event, stated, "It looks like Wednesday, Thursday are the key days to watch and then we'll make our decisions once we see what weather come in." Decisions could hinge on prevailing weather conditions, with potential adjustments being considered, including the cancellation of swim legs or even the entire event.
Coastal conditions have begun to worsen, as Mooloolaba Beach was closed on March 3 amid the looming threat of Cyclone Alfred. Winds are expected to pick up to around 120 kilometers per hour, heightening concerns about safety for competitors and spectators alike. Sunshine Coast Police Superintendent Craig Hawkins echoed these sentiments, reminding residents and event organizers, "This is a dangerous system and we urge everyone to heed warnings and stay informed." The police ability to monitor safety and weather conditions remains high on their agenda as the storm approaches.
Further exacerbated by Cyclone Alfred is the current climate for farmers across Queensland. The growing population presents increasing nuisance complaints as urban areas encroach on agricultural lands. Farmers such as Peter McLennan have called on governments to implement Right to Farm policies to give agricultural stakeholders greater protections against complaints from surrounding residential developments.
While farmers are grappling with urban encroachment, the AFL season opener is also set to go ahead. Scheduled for March 6, the match between the Brisbane Lions and Geelong Cats at the Gabba will proceed as planned, but the league has yet to make a definitive ruling due to the cyclone’s approach. League boss Andrew Dillon confirmed, “Contingencies are in place,” with plans to liaise with local authorities before making any final decisions about the season opener. Despite uncertainties, the season's start is poised to maintain its schedule, showcasing the resilience of sports amid nature's challenges.
Back at the Sunshine Coast, local authorities and organizers remain committed to ensuring safety is the priority as they keep tabs on the cyclone’s track. Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli highlighted this concern, stating the effects of such large events on travel safety are considerable. "We also needed to think about the safety around travel for our members to and from the event, considering people come from all over Queensland to take part," said Nigel Ward, chair of the local surf lifesaving championships, which have already been cancelled due to the cyclone.
With rip currents expected and strong winds contributing to beach erosion, the decision to keep coastal areas open for activities like swimming remains precarious. Sunshine Coast Chief Lifeguard Trent Robinson managed expectations by noting, "That wind will get up to around 40 knots and the swells will pick up." Beach closures are likely to continue until the cyclone passes, as safety remains the top concern.
The impending storm is also raising questions about what the future holds for the island communities, such as King Island, which are not only concerned about current weather but about longer-term impacts on their livelihoods. Bull kelp farming, integral to local culture and business, faces challenges as the kelp stock begins to decline. Local farmers fear for their industry as they increasingly notice less kelp washing ashore—a trend they attribute to environmental changes exacerbated by the cyclone season.
With preparations underway and safety taking priority, Queensland, particularly along the Sunshine Coast, stands ready to brace itself against Cyclone Alfred's formidable approach. The AFL, triathlon organizers, and local communities are resilient, focusing on weather conditions to plan accordingly and maintain safety amid the disruption.