The Science of Disasters - impact, resilience and recovery in Far North Queensland

TNQ Drought Hub recently supported The Science of Disasters – impact, resilience and recovery event, May 31st 2024 in Cairns. This event was facilitated by Partner Up Queensland Regional Science and Innovation Network (PUQ), an initiative of the Queensland Government delivered by the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation as a joint initiative of the Office of the Queensland Chief Scientist and Advance Queensland. Other key supporters included James Cook University (JCU), Regional Development Australia Tropical North (RDA North), and the Cairns Regional Council (CRC).

After the recent devastating flooding caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper, this networking event came at a critical time to help support meaningful collaborations in our region, with presenters discussing the economic implications of disasters, and research around disasters and the environmental impact. The impacts of wind, flooding, food supply chain issues and heat impacts, as well as feedback around community wellbeing, and how to talk to young people about disasters to minimise stress and trauma were key highlights.

With over 100 attendees, including representatives from local councils such as Cairns, Douglas Shire, Mareeba Shire, Tablelands, Cassowary Coast, and Cook Shire, the diverse mix of attendees also included Natural Resources Management (NRM) groups, SES members, police, local organizations like Centacare, industry representatives, and government officials from across Far North Queensland, Brisbane, Rockhampton, and Canberra.

Event Recap
The importance of working with Traditional Owners around disaster resilience, and utilising Traditional Knowledge, formed over centuries, and using nature as a buffer were addressed. There is an urgent need to document Elder knowledge in the region before it is lost, as is the need to advocate for training Indigenous rangers with skills akin to those of the Queensland State Emergency Service.

Research through the Cyclone Testing Station indicated older homes may be more vulnerable to cyclone damage, while newer homes face greater mould issues post-disaster, highlighting the value of science and industry collaborating for innovative building solutions.

Historically, research shows our region has been impacted by flooding events larger than the recent flooding after ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper. Utilising scientific knowledge in regional planning will help us be better prepared for future floods. Chemicals are released from land and into our waterways during floods, with analysis and insights from an Indigenous led study in Trinity Inlet post ex Tropical Cyclone Jasper, an important fish habitat and nursery ground, revealing implications on human health and the environment.

Food supply chain issues due to monsoonal flooding were discussed, showing that many communities are cut off annually, with impacts amplified during severe weather events.

Overall, the event highlighted the importance of working together and forging meaningful partnerships and collaborations with research to help us be better prepared for future disasters, and to ultimately support regional resilience and community wellbeing, our environment, and local economy.

Jen McHugh from the TNQ Drought Hub Sustainable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Enterprise program said that “It was exciting to see such a diverse range of stakeholders attend. So many people with difference experience sharing their knowledge and expertise of disasters was invaluable.”

For further information and the full list of key presenters and researchers, please contact Mel Varoy