Hamilton residents still recall the devastation wrought by the 2022 floods in Brisbane. Now, with Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaching and the chances of a direct hit (the first in 50 years) near certain, residents are in the thick of preparations. Here’s a summary of recent developments and a list of resources that might come in handy.
First Cyclone in 50 Years
Cyclone Alfred is poised to be the first cyclone in over five decades to directly hit Queensland’s southeast coast, a region that rarely experiences direct tropical cyclone impacts. The last recorded cyclone to make landfall in the area was Cyclone Zoe in 1974.
Meteorologists initially expected Alfred to track away from Australia, but a sudden shift westward has put Brisbane and surrounding suburbs in its path. Experts are still assessing the potential strength and impact of the storm, with uncertainty remaining over its landfall location and severity.
Cyclone Alfred Forces Ferry Suspensions and Raises Flood Fears
Hamilton is well-connected by CityCat ferry services, which provide a convenient transport option along the Brisbane River.
However, due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred, all ferry services have been suspended until further notice. The last ferry left the docks past 10:00 p.m. on 3 March 2025.
With ferry services out of action, Hamilton residents must rely on buses, trains, and road transport. The Kingsford Smith Drive corridor, already prone to peak-hour congestion, is expected to become even busier as commuters switch from ferries to cars and public transport.
Businesses near the ferry terminal also anticipate a decline in customers, similar to what happened in 2022 when ferry routes were suspended after the floods.
Public transport authorities have urged residents to plan ahead, with TransLink advising commuters to check for updates and allow extra travel time. Those traveling to the Brisbane CBD, airport, or Fortitude Valley should expect delays.
Hamilton’s Vulnerability to Flooding
Hamilton’s riverside location makes it particularly vulnerable to flooding, as seen in 2022 when parts of the suburb were impacted by rising water levels. That year, heavy rainfall caused the Brisbane River to overflow, flooding thousands of homes and disrupting transport for weeks.
Cyclone Alfred’s trajectory remains uncertain, but forecasters warn that a combination of high tides, heavy rainfall, and storm surges could increase the risk of flooding along low-lying areas, including parts of Hamilton. Residents are urged to monitor official weather updates and emergency alerts to stay informed.
According to Monash University’s Dr Liz Ritchie-Tyo, the cyclone’s unexpected shift is due to its interaction with a midlatitude trough, which has altered its movement. While numerical weather models have now adjusted their predictions, the speed, direction, and intensity of the storm remain difficult to pinpoint.
Council Ramps Up Preparations
Brisbane has activated severe weather preparations:
Emergency Alerts
Resource Recovery Centres
As of 6 March 2025:
Sandbag Distribution Points
As of 6 March 2025:
Residents are also being urged to secure loose outdoor items, trim overhanging branches, prepare for potential power outages and pack an Emergency Kit.
During an event, the map will display the predicted flood extent based on advice issued by the Bureau of Meteorology. The advice will comprise the date, time and height (in metres) for the predicted flood peak at the Brisbane River City Gauge (Kangaroo Point).
School Closures
Premier David Crisafulli has confirmed that airports and public schools will remain open as of now. However, he emphasized that the situation is evolving rapidly, and authorities are closely monitoring developments.
Parents, students, and staff are advised to stay informed through official channels for the latest information on school operations.
For now, residents are urged to stay informed, prepare their properties, and check for weather updates. Emergency services remain on standby, ready to respond if conditions worsen.
Published 4-March-2025