The Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) has issued a warning for transport companies along the south-east Queensland coast to prepare for the impending Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
Latest weather reports suggest the swell is currently up to 2.6m, with some saying it’s up to seven metres off the Sunshine Coast. Tropical Cyclone Alfred is heading in a south-east direction and is set to alter westwards form this evening before potentially crossing over south-east Queensland land late Thursday.
Gale winds are expected in Moreton Bay from early tomorrow, with there most likely being no shipping movements from tomorrow evening and a potential port closure on Thursday and Friday.
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The QTA has warned its members that they should have extensive planning underway to prepare for the potential of freight access being cut-off to Brisbane.
“With the weather situation worsening over the coming days, it is important to remind (as you no doubt already are) ensuring your businesses carry out their own severe weather preparation processes, including tying down any equipment or plant, securing all external equipment in the depot,” the QTA says.
“We are confident that members have been undertaking extensive planning for the impending arrival of Tropical Cyclone Alfred. We would remind members that nearly two years ago with the Brisbane flooding event of that time, there was a period of three to four days where Brisbane was in effect cut off in all major routes.
“We would encourage consideration being given to how you might undertake staging to either get access to freight in Brisbane or deliver to Brisbane and or the freight implications for clients that need to be serviced in Central or Northern Queensland.
“Above all else, stay safe – remember if it is flooded, forget It!”
The QTA has told members to consider what additional resources drivers may need with them over the next week.
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