Remembering Wonga Beach School’s role as a lifeline ahead of cyclone season
COMMUNITY RESILIENCE
BUSINESS FEATURE
We all remember how our community came together during the TC Jasper floods, and Wonga Beach State School was a standout example of that spirit. With cyclone season approaching, its role as a vital refuge and relief hub serves as a timely reminder of the importance of preparedness and strong local support networks.
The school’s role highlighted the value of local centres in disasters and the community preparedness the Douglas Shire Disaster Management Unit (DMU) - established after the December 2023 events - now aims to achieve.
When TC Jasper swept through the region, many parts of the Douglas Shire were cut off, powerless, and in urgent need of support.
Wonga Beach State School, unaffected by flooding, quickly became the safest and most practical option. It served as a critical relief hub, showing how local centres can support the wider community during a disaster.
Melanie Lyne, who has worked at the school for 15 years, recounted how the school stepped up during the floods.
“The school is the main facility in Wonga Beach, we don’t have a cyclone shelter or community hall here,” she explained.
“As a state government facility with suitable rooms and in partnership with local government, it was the most appropriate place for families to access during a disaster. Plus, the school is well-known to the Wonga community.”
Two Wonga Beach locals that also work for Douglas Shire Council and part of the Disaster Management Team, took the lead in coordinating relief efforts.
Permission was secured from the principal to set up in the school’s resource centre and, equipped initially with basic tools from the community and council, including bedding, food, access to the internet, spread the word to the community that help was available.
Community response
The flooding hit Lower Daintree and South Arm Drive at Wonga Beach particularly hard, leaving several families displaced.
“We supported them with hampers, water, food, and access to showers, kitchen, and
The community response was remarkable. Neighbours pitched in with essentials, skills, and equipment, while all donations were coordinated and delivered to those most in need.
As the waters receded, the school expanded support, distributing food, water, Christmas presents from the Rockhampton Stock Squad, and providing on-site Centrelink and other services for affected families.
Throughout the crisis, the school and the Douglas Shire Council worked closely, ensuring a swift, coordinated response that supported residents through one of the most challenging events in recent memory.
Valuable lessons
Paul Hoye, Disaster Management Unit Manager, said the school’s response during the TC Jasper floods was a powerful example of community-led resilience.
“With the road to Mossman cut off and services disrupted, the school quickly became a vital relief hub,” Mr Hoye said.
“That was thanks to the initiative of local residents and Council staff, who live in the community and stepped up to coordinate support and share essential supplies.”
He said the way the Wonga community rallied together reflected the collaboration the DMU encourages across the shire.
“It was a reminder that even small, local actions - like having a plan, knowing your neighbours, and being ready to help - can make a big difference in a crisis.”
Mr Hoye said the experience also highlighted key lessons, including the need for accessible supplies, reliable communication channels and trained volunteers ready to assist when needed.
For all the information you need to get disaster-ready, visit: https://douglas.qld.gov.au/disaster-management-and-preparedness/
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