When Cyclone Alfred struck Queensland, it didn’t just bring fierce winds and torrential rain — it left a trail of debris, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted communities across the state. Among the worst affected areas was the Gold Coast Hinterland, where fallen trees and blocked roads cut off access and delayed essential recovery efforts.
At East Coast Traffic Control, we knew the importance of stepping up — and our team was ready.
Clearing Roads, Restoring Access
As the cyclone moved through, large sections of forested roads were left littered with massive fallen trees, snapped branches, and tangled power lines. These winding hinterland roads, many of which are narrow and remote, posed a serious risk to both residents and the emergency crews trying to get through.
Our traffic control teams were mobilised immediately to assist recovery crews with safe site access. By establishing clear detours, managing traffic around hazards, and maintaining communication between teams on the ground, we played a key role in ensuring that clean-up efforts could begin without delay.
Why Traffic Control Matters After a Cyclone
While chainsaws and cherry pickers might get most of the attention during recovery operations, none of it can happen safely without controlled access. Here’s how traffic control supports disaster recovery:
- Keeps crews safe: Whether it’s Energex, arborists or council workers, safe access to impacted areas is critical.
- Minimises community risk: Controlling vehicle flow helps prevent accidents on roads scattered with debris and damaged infrastructure.
- Supports emergency response times: Clear roads mean faster response for SES, fire crews and medical teams.
- Restores mobility: Reopening roads safely helps people reconnect with essential services, jobs, and family.
Our presence on-site helped keep both locals and workers protected during an incredibly volatile period.
What We Saw on the Ground
The scenes were sobering. Towering trees brought down by wind force, roadways narrowed to single-lane access by debris, and visibility hampered by dense forest canopy and powerline risks. But thanks to clear skies post-storm and a collaborative effort, crews made rapid progress — and we were proud to be a part of it.
Our controllers worked hand-in-hand with crews to support operations safely and efficiently, ensuring essential recovery tasks could go ahead smoothly.
Standing Strong with Queensland
Queenslanders are no strangers to extreme weather, but it’s the resilience of our communities and the dedication of frontline workers that shine brightest in times like these. Whether it’s a cyclone, flood, or bushfire, East Coast Traffic Control stands ready to help keep the roads — and recovery — moving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is traffic control needed after a cyclone?
Traffic control ensures the safety of recovery crews and road users by managing detours, access points, and high-risk zones during clean-up operations. - Are roads closed immediately after a cyclone?
Yes, many roads — especially in regional or forested areas — are closed until fallen trees and debris can be cleared. Traffic controllers assist in managing safe access. - How long does cyclone recovery take?
Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of the damage, but traffic control support is often required for several days to weeks. - What should residents do if they encounter a closed road?
Always obey signage and directions from traffic controllers. Attempting to drive through closed areas puts yourself and others at risk. - Can traffic control assist with power restoration?
Indirectly, yes. By keeping roads safe, our teams help ensure Energex and other utility crews can access affected areas quickly and safely.
