Alfred’s aftermath

RESIDENTS across the Byron Shire were busy cleaning up and counting the cost of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred this week.

With winds reaching up to 120 kilometres per hour at Cape Byron and heavy rain leading to flooding, the weather system caused extensive damage across the region.

Evacuation centres were set up at Cavanbah Centre in Byron Bay, Ocean Shores Country Club and Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club to house those in need of temporary accommodation.

Schools were also closed for at least four days, from Thursday to Monday, with some closed longer while further clean-up work took place.

With Mullumbimby’s water treatment plant at Laverty’s Gap unable to produce drinking water due to high levels of turbidity in the raw water supply, some local residents were connected to the town’s emergency connection to Rous, while others had to rely on clean drinking water stored in reservoirs.

Power outages also impacted sewage pumping stations around the Shire, with council staff using portable generators to maintain basic services while waiting for Essential Energy to restore services.

Council crews also worked alongside contractors to remove fallen trees and branches throughout the region.

Angela Allston’s investment property at Byron Bay was one of the many properties impacted when the ceiling above one of the bedrooms collapsed at 3am on Saturday.

“We have a tenant in one room, and she has a friend in the other,” she said. “Thank goodness she wasn’t there.

“It was just caused by the sheer amount of water and debris from the cyclone that accumulated in the gully of the roof. The gutters had been cleared.

“We’ve been on the phone to the insurance company and they are sending someone out to look at it and see if it’s safe for the tenant to remain in the property.”

Coorabell Hall president Lissa Coote’s car was also a write-off after a tree fell on it during the cyclone.

“It happened in the middle of the night,” she said. “I walked out the next day and there was my car completely covered by a huge tree. The funny thing is I have been wishing for a new car, so it’s a case of be careful what you wish for.”

The 2007 model Subaru Outback was insured for market value, so a friend started a GoFundMe page to help raise money for a new car.

The community rallied to help those in need, with Bangalow Resilience Network organising a barbecue at Bangalow Men’s Shed on Monday for people who were still without power.

They also organised for them to have a hot shower at nearby Bangalow Heritage House & Museum.

Coorabell mum-of-four Lisa Englefield was among those who made the most of the opportunity.

“On day five of no power I was so grateful to be able to give everyone a shower and have a hot meal,” she said.

“The ladies from Heritage House and Bangalow Resilience Network were so lovely to offer their time to help others when some of them also still have power out. It shows what a strong and selfless community we have.”

If you want to donate to those affected, visit givit.org.au