News
18 March, 2025
SES rises to cyclone challenge
MORETON Bay State Emergency Service (SES) will conduct a full review of its response to Tropical Cyclone Alfred (TCA) once operations are complete, and crews have finished the clean-up and returned to full operational status.
This follows the Moreton Bay SES responding to more than 1800 requests for assistance during and after TCA’s impact on the region, between Friday, March 7, and Wednesday, March 12.
Local Controller for Moreton Bay SES Unit, Sean Harrop, said the fact that no rescues were required during this response phase was “a reflection on the community’s preparedness” for the severe weather event.
Despite the high volume of assistance requests, Mr Harrop said demand was met thanks to a coordinated inter-agency response and support from “a large cohort” of local SES volunteers, as well as volunteers from Far North Queensland, Western Australia, and the Australian Capital Territory.
Infrastructure and services were restored as quickly as possible,” he said.
“There were multiple examples of inter-agency responses where our emergency services worked hand-in-glove to respond to tasks and ensure critical to tasks and ensure critical.
“These additional resources allowed us to meet community demand for SES services, and crews remain ready to respond if further requests for assistance come in.
“We always learn a great deal from events like this to ensure the SES’ capability continues to meet community expectations and requirements.”
However, Mr Harrop reminded residents of the importance of following official advice, including signage and warnings, particularly regarding road closures.
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The only potential rescue required was due to a resident driving past a ‘road closed’ sign and becoming isolated by floodwaters.
The resident remained safe on high ground and in constant contact with SES crews until the water receded, ultimately not requiring rescue.
“Even if you can get through a closed road, you may not be able to get back, as conditions can change rapidly,” Mr Harrop said.
“As a whole, locals heeded warnings and made good decisions before and during the cyclone’s impact.”
Moreton Bay SES and Somerset SES units assisted the community in the days leading up to TCA’s landfall, particularly with sandbagging efforts to support preparations and assist vulnerable residents.
Moreton Bay SES volunteers also worked with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) to door knock in flood-prone areas, ensuring residents were informed of their options.
Following TCA’s landfall, SES efforts transitioned to storm damage assistance, including requests for tarping roofs and removing large fallen trees blocking property access.
“The most common requests were for fallen trees and property damage caused by destructive winds, which impacted not just the Moreton District but much of southeast Queensland,” Mr Harrop said.
Residents still requiring SES support can use the SES Assistance QLD App or call 132 500 for assistance.
