Ordinarily I would share a Christmas message and yearly wrap up this week but as for many of those living on the northern beaches (myself included), Christmas preparations really were hijacked in this past week, first by Cyclone Jasper and then more thoroughly in the rains that followed.
Its hard to get a clear picture of things as you drive through a Cairns CBD that is very much open for business, but Machans, Holloways, Yorkeys, Caravonica and others have had a hell of a week, with hundreds (if not thousands) of homes inundated and essential services including power, water and internet cut for days. Writing this column on Wednesday (for print deadlines), we had only just had power restored in our home but without doubt there will be those waking up today still feeling the lack.
While many locals prepared as best they could for wet weather, there really is no preparation for a metre or more of water coming through doors and windows, and there are many now facing that reality as they work through a cleanup which will take days for some and months for others. While our beaches are mostly back in connection with the rest of the City, there are patches that will remain cut off for some time yet – particularly those living on the northern end of Holloways Beach, where water has washed out roadways and taken both accessibility and services with them.
As homes are repaired and brought back to scratch, an already precarious housing market will become even more strained, as homes are required to house those that will have to wait for repairs and the all clear to safely return. Doing this a week before Christmas as offices shut and many businesses take a well-deserved break makes it even harder.
For those potentially less directly affected, there are other challenges ahead – including the restoration of access to Port Douglas (and more) to the North, and the crucial freight route of the Palmerston highway to the south. Its likely to be a very different holiday period than that imagined 2 weeks ago.
For those wondering about their next steps, start with your insurer where you can. Take photos before things are disposed of, and record as much as you can, whether as an owner or tenant. If you are needing accommodation, let the property manager know your situation – many owners will take into account a tenant’s circumstances and this may help in securing somewhere sooner rather than later.
Government grants are available for those severely affected as well. Its been incredible to see the support from the community already, whether it’s the volunteers on cleanup, the donation centres popping up or even people like “Beau from Edmonton” that popped up through floodwaters on his Jetski checking if people needed supplies or a quick exit.
Merry Christmas all, and stay safe.