NEWSPORT NEWSFEED: Four cyclones predicted for Queensland Coast

Wednesday, October 30

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A landslide cuts off Cook Highway as a result of Cyclone Jasper. Picture: Dean Miller.

Northern Queensland residents are being urged to prepare for the possibility of more intense weather patterns as the tropical cyclone season kicks off on Friday.

A Bureau of Meteorology long-range forecast issued earlier this month has predicted about 11 cyclones to form in the Australian region from November to April.

Of these, four are predicted to develop off the Queensland coast - with Far North Queensland usually taking the brunt of any that make landfall.

In the wake of the destruction caused by Cyclone Jasper in December 2023, the BOM this month launched a Get Ready Queensland campaign to help better prepare locals for the season.

Senior meteorologist Laura Boekel warned residents that severe weather can develop quickly and pose risks to lives - scientific evidence shows trends across the past few decades illustrate there may be less cyclones on average, but a higher percentage of intense category one and two storms.

 

“The coming months could see an increased risk of impacts from tropical cyclones,” she said.

“So now’s the time to know your weather, know your risk.”

Ms Boekel urged people to take simple, but crucial, measures such as packing an emergency kit, planning what to do in the event of a cyclone hitting, and downloading the BOM app and setting up emergency notifications. 

Health professionals also recommend residents keep prepared medications and first-aid kits on hand.

Scientific evidence suggests factors such as warmer-than-average ocean temperatures brought on by climate change are causing stronger winds, more intense rain, flooding and storm surges.

Even if a cyclone does not make landfall, it can combine with rising sea levels to produce more dangerous coastal conditions.

The first tropical cyclone typically crosses the Australian coast in late December, but the BOM warns severe weather can hit at any time.

Anyone with the names Robyn, Sean, Taliah, Vince, Zelia, Anthony, Bianca, Courtney, Dianne, Errol, Fina and Grant should also take note - these are the next names in line for cyclones in the Australian region.

Macrossan Street speed limit slashed

The Department of Transport and Main Roads has issued a notice of works to reduce the speed limit in Macrossan Street, Port Douglas, to 40km/h from Davidson St to Grant Street and 30km/h from Grant Street to Wharf Street to improve pedestrian safety.

The speed reduction is expected to take effect in mid-November, weather and conditions permitting for works to be completed. The works will include speed zone pavement entry markings at various locations. Look to Newsport for updates to this story.

 

Halloween Boos and Don'ts

As we prepare for all the spooky festivities of October 31, the Queensland Police Service is reminding the hordes of lolly crazed vampires, witches, goblins, ghouls (and their parents) to trick or treat safely.

We want to remind our community that not everyone is into Halloween, so be respectful of those not wanting to participate.

Parents are encouraged to remain vigilant with your little trick or treaters, as even the scariest little monsters should be accompanied by an adult.

Sink your fangs into the following safety tips:

  • Even scary monsters should be accompanied by an adult.
  • Plan to do your trick or treating before dark (and preferably before all the lollies are gone!)
  • Trick or treating is the most fun (and safe!) in a group.
  • Always stay with your group and never enter a stranger’s home…. even if you’re a vampire and you’ve been invited in.
  • Wear bright colours so you can be seen as you’re crossing the road to get to that next house!
  • Plan your route, keep to the footpaths, don’t walk on roadways and be mindful, not to distract motorists.
  • Walk (creep, lurch, or slither), don’t run, have fun and look after each other.

Queensland Police have posters for those who leap into the Halloween spirit and those who find hordes of monsters descending on them a bit too scary.

The posters are easy to print out at home or at your local print shop.

For the Halloween enthusiasts, please download our ‘Trick or Treaters welcome’ poster:

TRICK OR TREATERS WELCOME

And for those who would rather not participate in Halloween this year, download the ‘Please Do Not Knock” poster:

NO TRICK OR TREATING

 

Snap water restrictions to turn off the tap

Watering gardens, washing cars and cleaning windows, topping up pools and even using water pistols will be banned under new “Flash” Emergency Water Restrictions which can be imposed by the Douglas Shire Council CEO.

Councillors say the public needs to understand the strict, snap measures, will only be put in place as a “last line of defence” and could mean the difference between having water for basic needs or not. FULL STORY

 

Welcome to Club Mossman

After 12 months of renovations, Club Mossman, as it will now be known, is almost ready to reveal its fresh and modern look. Complete with a brand new sports bar, two dining areas, state of the art gaming room, function space and cafe area, the upgrades have solidified the establishment as more than just a bowls club but a community hub. FULL STORY

 

Nature’s Wonders on show

The Nature’s Wonders: Cairns' Flora and Fauna exhibition by french artist Ludwine Probst is set to open on November 1 at the Tanks Arts Centre in Cairns, showcasing the region's diverse and stunning wildlife through vibrant artwork.

Running throughout the month, this exhibition highlights the unique beauty of the tropical flora and fauna, inspired by the rich natural environment of Far North Queensland. FULL STORY

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