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Big weekend ahead to prepare for cyclone season

Date published: 26 October 2017

It’s time to grab the gloves, some friends and a trailer and get ready for the upcoming cyclone season commencing at the start of next month.

Chair of the Townsville Location Disaster Management Group, Mayor Cr Jenny Hill said it was the perfect time of year to review your cyclone readiness and clean up around the yard with a free three day dump weekend starting tomorrow (Friday 27 October)

“Clearing fallen branches, cleaning gutters and downpipes and securing loose items is an easy way to minimise any potential damage brought on by strong winds and heavy rain,” Cr Hill said.

“As an extra incentive all Council landfills are open free of charge this weekend from tomorrow (Friday 27 October) through to Sunday.

“This is your chance to get stuck in and clean up your properties safely and at no cost before the weather begins to turn.”

This weekend Cyclone Sunday returns to Strand Park at the later start time of 4.00pm, finishing at 7.00pm.

There will be more than 30 exhibitors at the event on Sunday including Townsville City Council, Emergency Management, SES, Ergon Energy, Bureau of Meteorology, Suncorp, Police and Queensland Ambulance, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services among many others.

“Cyclone Sunday is an opportunity for newcomers and long-term residents alike, to speak with the experts and get the latest information on how to cope with natural disasters,” Cr Hill said.

“Understanding potential risks and hazards and how to prepare yourself, your home and your property for the storm season ahead is essential to staying safe and recovering quickly in the event of a cyclone.”

Cyclone Ready Streets, a joint initiative of Townsville City Council and Suncorp, also makes a return this year.

Suncorp Regional Manager Barbara Stegman said Cyclone Ready Streets was a great way to bring neighbours together and to help prepare for cyclone season which officially commences 1 November.

“Complacency is never a good strategy when it comes to cyclones and residents need to prepare properly,” Ms Stegman said.

“Simply register at cyclonereadystreets.com.au, send photos of your clean up, and you could be rewarded with a free meat tray.”

Cr Hill said Cyclone Ready Street also helps to educate people on survival strategies such as the 3 x 3 Plan.

“The Cyclone Ready 3 x 3 checklist shows you the three key things to do 3 weeks, 3 days and 3 hours before a cyclone,” she said.

“It’s a handy resource that could save your life.”

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