A week of it
From cyclonic storms to a New Year’s day deluge, the bright spots have been few
THE Gold Coast resilience is being tested as we speak. The double whammy of being smashed in some parts of the city by the freak cyclonic storm on Christmas night to then be belted soon after with dangerous rainfall levels and flash flooding is a lot to contend with all at once.
It has prompted comparisons to the cyclone impact on Cairns, with those who have been involved in both disasters to note arguably the Gold Coast is worse off.
Not that it is a contest., Residents are being urged to stay safe and follow the updates from the Bureau of Meteorology, the city council and look after each other particularly neighbours who might be vulnerable at this time.
There have been plenty of examples of community spirit and neighbourly concern in the past week and that will no doubt continue in the coming weeks and months. The recovery is going to be no quick fix and finally serious thought was being given on Monday as to whether the army should be brought in.
There will be people in Wongawallan, the northern reaches of the city and Tamborine who are wondering why it is taking so long. The impacts in those areas cannot be understated, especially as the clean-up is seriously hampered by the stormy weather that is forecast to continue for days.
The bright spots heading into 2024 have been few. But there are some worth mentioning. This is the tourism capital and part of the Gold Coast’s essence is showing people a good time.
New Year’s Eve celebrations went ahead along with fireworks in the face of thunderstorms and people did turn out and enjoy themselves. Goodness knows many would have needed it.
The theme parks in this city have done their best to get back up and running and should be commended for that effort. People are still here on holiday and for many that is why they have come. Finally, Gold Coast rising tennis star Kim Birrell and Olivia Gadecki seem set to make waves on the tennis tour in 2024 and inspire the next generation. First, they have a date with each other and were scheduled to face off at the Brisbane International. That too may have been rained out. But best wishes to both whoever wins they are fine examples or upstanding impressive next generation locals.