Search

New details emerge after Gold Coast Hilton Hotel catches fire

New details have emerged after a massive fire erupted at the Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel on the Gold Coast overnight, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of guests and staff. The blaze originated on the roof of the hotel's western tower at around 2am, with debris falling onto the second-floor restaurant area, notably affecting establishments like Steampunk Surfers Paradise. Emergency services responded promptly, with multiple fire crews arriving to combat the flames. The Queensland Fire Department reported that the fire on the pool deck was extinguished by around 2:20am, and the roof fire was under control by 2:40am. Guests were then permitted to return to their rooms at around 3am. Surfers Paradise resident Joevy Lyn captured dramatic footage of debris tumbling 120m from the roof to the streets below. Legendary Australian jockey Shane Dye, who was staying on the 34th floor of a neighbouring tower, witnessed the fire firsthand and told the Courier Mail: "Everything was on fire and in flames, I couldn't believe it. It was right outside my window." Dye evacuated his building amid initial confusion, saying that hotel staff were initially unaware of the severity of the situation. Another guest, Leah Nicholson, who was staying at the Hilton with her wife and three-year-old daughter, reported not hearing any alarms but, upon contacting the front desk, was told of the fire. The family then descended 14 flights of stairs to evacuate, only hearing evacuation alarms upon reaching the ground level. Queensland police assisted in the evacuation, and while the cause of the fire remains under investigation, a woman staying at an apartment across the road reportedly said she believed the Hilton sign had exploded. “The H on top of the Hilton building just started to catch on fire and then it all started to explode,” the woman told 7NEWS. “Parts of it started to fall which caught … other parts of the building on fire. It was quite intense.” Images: 7NEWS

Travel Trouble

New evidence points to fossilised remains of Noah's Ark

A team of international researchers has reignited a centuries-old debate after uncovering new evidence suggesting that the Durupinar Formation in Turkey could be the fossilised remains of Noah’s Ark. According to The Jerusalem Post, experts have found that the boat-shaped mound – long believed by some to be the biblical vessel – was likely submerged underwater during a catastrophic flood approximately 5,000 years ago. Located roughly 35km south of Mount Ararat’s summit, near the Iranian border in Turkey’s Dogubayazit district, the 164-metre geological structure has fascinated researchers and religious scholars for decades. Composed primarily of limonite, an iron-rich ore, the formation closely matches the biblical description of Noah’s Ark. The Book of Genesis describes the ark’s dimensions as “a length of three hundred cubits, its width fifty cubits, and its height thirty cubits,” which align with the measurements of the Durupinar site. Since 2021, an international team has been studying the formation to determine whether it could indeed be a massive preserved vessel. Their latest findings provide compelling evidence that the region was once covered in water. Soil samples taken from the site contain traces of clay-like materials, marine deposits, and even remnants of seafood—suggesting the area was submerged between 3,500 and 5,000 years ago, around the same time as the biblical flood. Professor Faruk Kaya, one of the lead researchers, stated, “According to the initial results, it’s believed there were human activities in this region since the Chalcolithic period.” The presence of marine deposits further supports the theory that the area once harbored aquatic life before being inundated. “Our studies show that this region harboured life in that period and that, at some point, it was covered by water, which reinforces the possibility that a catastrophic event of great magnitude occurred,” the researchers explained. The Durupinar Formation was first discovered in 1948 and has since been the subject of intense debate. While some believe it could be the fossilized remains of Noah’s Ark, others argue it is simply a natural rock formation shaped by geological forces. Religious texts from Christianity, Judaism and Islam all recount the story of Noah and the ark, but the scientific community has yet to confirm its historical accuracy. Nevertheless, recent findings have fueled speculation that the biblical flood may have a basis in reality. “The evidence suggests that the story might have a basis in reality,” researchers concluded, leaving the door open for further exploration and debate. Image: Facebook

International Travel

Police warn against idiotic cyclone behaviour

As Tropical Cyclone Alfred unleashes powerful storm surges and massive waves along Australia’s coastline, videos have emerged on social media showing people risking their lives for the perfect shot - despite repeated warnings from authorities to stay away from dangerous coastal areas. Footage circulating online captures individuals walking along the shoreline, snapping pictures, and even getting knocked over by monstrous waves. Some videos have amassed hundreds of thousands of views, sparking widespread criticism. One alarming incident occurred at Elephant Rock in Currumbin, where a group of people became trapped at a lookout after massive swells wiped out the road connecting them to the mainland. Viewers of the viral video condemned their reckless actions, with many questioning why they were out sightseeing during such treacherous conditions. Authorities have also reported a missing jet skier on the Gold Coast, heightening concerns about public safety during the storm. Gold Coast Acting Chief Superintendent Peter Miles expressed his frustration over the situation. “We all need to be a bit more smart about this and ensure that we don’t have any unneeded rescues or potentially worse where we’re looking at fatalities,” he said. “This isn’t a sunset where you can take a nice picture. You’re dealing with Mother Nature at her wildest.” Acting Gold Coast Mayor Donna Gates has threatened fines of up to $16,100 for those ignoring safety warnings and engaging in reckless behaviour along the coast. “For all those people that are going down to the beach and standing on the rock walls or on the sand, please stay away,” Gates pleaded on Thursday afternoon. “We’ve been in touch with police today. There’s been some really foolish behaviour, and it’s so important that people stay away from the beach. “We have been declared a disaster zone, which enables police to take action, and anyone performing a reckless action can actually be fined up to $16,100.” She went on to stress the importance of spreading the message widely, hoping to deter further risky actions: “It’s really in an effort to keep people who are a bit stupid, safe. We need to tell them over and over again, stay out of the water. It’s dangerous.” Her concerns were echoed by Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg, who urged residents to avoid becoming “environmental tourists” during the storm. “Don’t put others in danger because you want to become an environmental tourist or take some of these selfies and put yourself in harm’s way,” he said in a press conference alongside NSW Premier Chris Minns. “Heed the warnings, stay at home and protect your loved ones, and please stay safe.” Image: TikTok

Travel Trouble

Teen charged after allegedly trying to board Jetstar flight with a gun

A 17-year-old has been arrested after he allegedly attempted to board a Jetstar flight at Avalon Airport armed with a gun. The incident occurred around 2.20pm on Thursday, and it is believed that the teenager from Ballarat hid in his car before cutting a hole through a fence around the airport’s perimeter. The teenager wore a high-vis jacket and tool belt, and reportedly told crew members that he was there to carry out maintenance work. Crew members and passengers managed to detain the teenager near the front door of the plane, after passenger Barry Clark noticed the teenager was carrying a shotgun and detained the boy in a headlock until police arrived. “Before we knew it, a shotgun appeared, and I was worried about it being shot, so all I could do was push her out of the way, get the gun out of the way, break that gun and throw it down the stairs, and then put him in a hold, throw him to the ground until the police came,” he told ABC Radio Melbourne. Police also allegedly found two bags and a vehicle belonging to the boy, with the bomb squad called in to assist. The boy has since been charged with eight offences including unlawfully taking control of an aircraft, endangering the safety of an aircraft and taking part in a bomb hoax. He was remanded in custody to appear at a children’s court at a later date. Victoria Police Superintendent Michael Reid released a statement saying it was "very concerning" that the teen was able to breach security. “It would have been a very frightening experience for those passengers involved, but once again I do really commend the bravery of those civilian passengers that helped assist to overpower him.” Avalon Airport has reopened following the incident, with chief executive Ari Suss assuring that further security measures have been implemented. “We want to reassure the public that the safety of our passengers, staff, and community remains our highest priority,” he said. “We continue to work closely with authorities to ensure a safe and secure environment for all travellers. “This matter continues to be managed by Victoria Police, and we are fully supporting their ongoing investigation.” Image: 7News

Travel Trouble

Flight attendant's act after touchdown divides social media users

A United Airlines flight attendant has copped some flak online for playing the violin after touching down in California. The unnamed crew member welcomed travellers to the Bay Area by playing a cheery tune as people got up to disembark from the flight, and while his performance was met with a round of applause from passengers, others weren't quite as pleased. “It was a definite pleasant surprise and welcome change compared to all the news we hear from airlines these days,” the Redditor captioned the clip of the performance shared online. While some viewers agreed it was “lovely” and “awesome,” others found the behaviour “unsettling,” calling the flight attendant “self-indulgent”. “What a sly move,” one wrote. “He has everyone sitting, captivated by his music, while he slowly walks down the aisle with anyone in his way and exiting the plane first.” “Just because I’m trapped and sitting doesn’t mean I have any desire to be serenaded,” another commented. “This would be annoying as hell,” wrote a third. “Can’t imagine breaking out into song on any instrument on a flight." “Honestly I’d struggle not to tell him to sit down and shut the f**k up,” commented another. However, others jumped to the flight attendant's defence, saying: “Of course super mean people as usual telling him to sit down and shut up." “My guess is he actually likes the passengers and is very friendly and kind,” another added, praising the crew member for trying to "entertain passengers." “Not like he’s making much with working at one of the lowest paying mainlines. Yet he has a good attitude despite it.” Images: Reddit

Travel Trouble

‘Don’t panic, do prepare’: why it’s not too late to plan for Cyclone Alfred

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/yetta-gurtner-2337172">Yetta Gurtner</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/james-cook-university-1167">James Cook University</a> For millions of people in southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales, Cyclone Alfred will be their first experience living through a cyclone. Alfred is forecast to make landfall about 2am on Friday morning. I am a disaster expert based in northern Queensland, which regularly experiences cyclones. In my other role as an acting SES public information officer, I’m heading south to the Gold Coast to help residents prepare and respond. Here’s what I want you to know. First, don’t panic. Second, do prepare. Preparation has several steps. It’s important to clearly assess your specific threat. If you live near the sea, storm surges – where the sea spills inland – could be a significant threat, while flooding might pose a large risk if you live near a river – especially in the few days after Alfred passes. The highest rainfall is likely on Alfred’s southern flank from the Gold Coast down to northern New South Wales. Having enough food, water and medication is vital. Be ready to evacuate too, in case authorities deem it necessary. Check your local council’s disaster website, disaster apps and stay tuned to the ABC, which will run disaster alerts. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EN_yKcjlF20?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe><figcaption>The Bureau of Meteorology’s latest update on Cyclone Alfred’s path and likely impact, as of the morning of Wed 5th March.</figcaption></figure> <h2>What should I do right now?</h2> If you’re in the <a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDQ65002.shtml">danger zone</a>, make preparations now, before the full intensity of the cyclone arrives. Tie down loose objects. Clean gutters to avoid overflow from torrential rain. And prepare your “go bag” – a bag of essentials you can throw in the car if authorities tell you to leave immediately. Don’t take too much – just the bare necessities. Buy an AM/FM radio and tune it to ABC National, as you cannot be sure mobile networks will function. Radio is a reliable way to get good information from the ABC, Australia’s designated <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/emergency">emergency channel</a>. Make sure the car is fuelled or charged. If you’ve got a generator, make sure you have fuel and the generator is positioned outside in a well-ventilated area. Water is often unreliable after disasters. Fill your bathtub or front-loader washing machine with water. Put containers of water in your freezer, to keep food cold if the power goes out and as another water source. Plan for days of power outages. Protect windows with plywood, heavy blankets or mattresses. Put a mattress between your car and garage roller door to stop it blowing in. Turn off gas, electricity and solar power. Authorities recommend using sandbags to reduce the chance of water getting in. You can get sacks from hardware stores or council-run emergency centres, if available, who also provide sand. You also need plastic sheeting. If there’s a shortage of sand, you can use garden soil or commercial bagged soil. If you can’t get sacks, large plastic shopping bags will do. Tape strong plastic sheeting around the door or low window where water might get in. This is the barrier that actually keeps water out – sandbags keep it in place. Fill sandbags and lay them <a href="https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/during-emergency/sandbags">like bricks</a>. Lay one row, and lay the next row offset for strength. Sandbags are good, but they have limits. There’s little point in piling sandbags higher than about 30 centimetres. If floodwaters edge higher, water will get through. Many people have had the unpleasant experience of having effluent come back up through toilets during cyclones and subsequent flooding. To stop this, cover your toilet with plastic sheeting (directly on the porcelain) and put a sandbag on top for weight. Do the same for any drains where water might flow back up. To reduce water damage, put valuable or important items up high, atop tables or bunk beds or upstairs if you have a second storey. <h2>What will it be like when Alfred hits?</h2> When the cyclone first hits, it can be overwhelming. The sound is like a roaring jet engine. If you haven’t been advised to evacuate by authorities, you will be sheltering in place. This means finding the safest room in the house, to avoid damage from flying objects. Choose the smallest room with the fewest windows – a bathroom or a room under the stairs. Basements are very safe, but will be the first affected by water. As the cyclone picks up intensity, set up inside this safe room with your pets and children. Do not leave this room until you have been told it’s safe by authorities. At the centre of strong cyclones is the eye of the storm, which we experience as a period of sudden calm. People often make the mistake of thinking it’s over. But in fact, it’s just a brief reprieve before the intense winds pick up again. Don’t make the mistake of leaving the house – check with authoritative sources. Cyclone Alfred is a <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-03-05/cyclone-alfred-unusual-triplet-storm-climate-change-factors/105008704">slow-moving cyclone</a>, which means you might be stuck inside for a while. Be prepared to be inside your house for up to 24 hours, even after the worst has passed. This is because there may well be downed powerlines with live electricity, broken glass, falling trees and so on. For your children (and yourself), being in the cyclone is frightening. Young kids find the sound chilling. You can play music through headphones to help soothe them. Board games, books and puzzles can help pass the time. You will need distraction. Have a bucket in the corner for emergency toilet needs. Keep track of the storm and any emerging dangers through your radio and internet-enabled phone (if still functioning). <h2>What if I have to evacuate?</h2> Authorities are working to set up evacuation centres for people whose homes may not be safe. Authorities will go door-to-door to tell affected residents to leave, as well as broadcasting the information on radio and online. You’re more likely to have to evacuate if your house is on low-lying land near the sea, as a storm surge is likely. How much water is pushed ashore will depend on the tide, but it could be as high as 70cm above the high tide line if we’re unlucky. Evacuations can happen after the cyclone too. Alfred is packing a lot of rain – <a href="https://www.weatherzone.com.au/news/tropical-cyclone-alfred-could-disrupt-afl-and-nrl-matches/1890420">up to a metre</a> in some areas. That’s very likely to cause flooding, both flash floods and rivers breaking their banks. If you are asked to evacuate, you can go to the house of a friend or family member if it’s on higher ground and outside the flood risk zones. Or you can go to a local evacuation centre – check your council website to see where your closest one is. Take as little as possible with you. Many people who choose not to evacuate do so because they’re worried about their pets. This is risky. Some evacuation centres do take pets, so check now. If they don’t, look for other options with friends and family. Staying put after an evacuation order is dangerous. <h2>What will happen after the cyclone?</h2> Cyclone Alfred brings three threats: intense winds, high seas and heavy rain. After the intense winds die down, the seas will be dangerous for days after Alfred. There are coastal hazard warnings for about 1,000km of coastline. Cyclones also often decay into tropical low weather systems, which dump heavy rain for days. This is likely. As you move into recovery phase, don’t relax your guard. In far north Queensland, 16 people have <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-03-04/melioidosis-death-toll-rises-in-queensland/105009772">now died</a> after being infected with melioidosis, a bacterium found in mud. The bug is <a href="https://theconversation.com/theres-an-outbreak-of-melioidosis-in-north-queensland-heres-what-to-know-about-this-deadly-mud-bug-250392">more prevalent</a> after heavy rainfall. Wear protective gear such as gloves and face masks when dealing with water-damaged goods and mud, and pay close attention to the latest advice authorities are giving. But remember – don’t panic. We will get through this.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/251463/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/yetta-gurtner-2337172">Yetta Gurtner</a>, Adjunct Senior Lecturer, Centre for Disaster Studies, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/james-cook-university-1167">James Cook University</a> Image credits: LUKAS COCH/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Editorial This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/dont-panic-do-prepare-why-its-not-too-late-to-plan-for-cyclone-alfred-251463">original article</a>. </div>

Travel Trouble

Travel expert shares top luxury destinations for 2025

More travellers are prioritising luxury holidays than ever before, with a travel expert revealing the top luxury destinations for 2025. Mark Trim, founder and managing director of <a title="Onboard Luxury" href="https://onboardluxury.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Onboard Luxury</a>, said there are a selection of hotspots around the world that keep reappearing in online searches. Whether you're after a city stay or a relaxing resort getaway, Trim shared the top luxury spots with <a href="https://travel.nine.com.au/destinations/top-luxury-destinations-for-aussie-travellers-for-2025-in-pictures/d92ae530-7f82-4e49-ab2b-46cbd25758d6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9Travel</a>. One destination that Trim said has become a particular hotspot is Sardinia in Italy. "This sophisticated island boasts pristine beaches, charming villages, and world-class golf courses like Pevero Golf Club," says Mark. Blessed with an array of spectacular swim spots, Sardinia has long been a bucket list holiday spot for many eager travellers. Trim said it's best to visit during the months between June to September to make the most of the weather, but be aware that this is the busiest time for tourists. For those looking for more of an adventure, the Okavango Delta in Botswana is a once-in-a-lifetime trip with its array of incredible animals. "This untamed beauty is one of Africa's Seven Natural Wonders, and it offers a unique opportunity to witness incredible biodiversity up close," says Mark. Those in search of a picturesque tiny town holiday should add the Norwegian town of Bergen to their itinerary. "This UNESCO World Heritage City is nestled amidst stunning fjords and boasts colourful wooden houses and panoramic views of the Northern Lights," says Mark. If you're in search of the ultimate beach resort getaway, Trim says you can't go past the Maldives. "If you're dreaming of a tranquil island escape with unparalleled luxury, the Fari Islands in the Maldives should be at the top of your list," says Mark. "With its convenient location just a short flight from Australia, it's the perfect getaway for those seeking a luxurious and rejuvenating experience," he added. For others looking for a beach holiday but wanting to stay closer to home, Fiji is always a popular choice, with many opting to explore the Mamanuca Islands. "This stunning archipelago boasts idyllic beaches, vibrant coral reefs and showstopping sunsets," says Mark. "Plus, with direct flights to Nadi and a short boat or helicopter ride to Malolo Island, it's incredibly convenient to reach for Australians." Image credits: Shutterstock

International Travel

Stranded NASA astronauts close in on their return to Earth

Two NASA astronauts are just weeks away from their much-anticipated return to Earth after a gruelling nine months <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/travel/travel-trouble/nasa-astronauts-stranded-in-space" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stuck</a> on the International Space Station. Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are waiting for their replacements to arrive at the ISS before they can depart later this month. They'll be joined on their SpaceX ride home by two astronauts who launched by themselves last September alongside two empty seats. During a news conference on Tuesday, Wilmore said that while politics is part of life, it did not play into his and Williams' return, moved up a couple weeks thanks to a change in SpaceX capsules. US President Donald Trump and SpaceX's Elon Musk said at the end of January that they wanted to accelerate the astronauts' return, blaming the Biden administration for their unfortunate situation. Williams said she can't wait to be reunited with her labrador retrievers, sharing that the hardest part about the unexpected extended stay was the wait by their families back home. <div> <div>"It's been a roller coaster for them, probably a little bit more so than for us," she said. "We're here. We have a mission. We're just just doing what we do every day, and every day is interesting because we're up in space and it's a lot of fun."</div> </div> <div> <div> The astronauts first encountered technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft days after departing for their eight-day trip in June. The trip Mr Wilmore, 61, and Ms Williams, 58, were on was designed to see how the new spacecraft performs before it is used more regularly. However, problems emerged as it made its approach to the ISS, including leaks in its propulsion system and some of its thrusters shutting down. Image credits: NASA </div> </div>

Travel Trouble

Man charged after allegedly making bomb threats in airport

A Brisbane man has been charged after allegedly making threats about a bomb on a plane and travelling under a fake name. The 44-year-old boarded a Brisbane-bound flight at Sydney Airport on January 14 and was allegedly talking about a bomb while speaking on the phone before take-off. He was escorted off the plane by police, where officers allegedly found he had been travelling under a fake name. Following a search of the aircraft, officers confirmed there was no threat of a bomb. “Travelling on an aircraft should be a safe experience for passengers and airline crew alike,” AFP Detective Superintendent Morgan Blunden said. “The AFP will continue to work closely with airline partners to deal with any behaviour that interferes with aviation security.” The man has been charged with one count of taking a constitutional flight with a ticket obtained with false identity information and one count of threatening aviation security. The maximum penalty for the offences is 12 months’ jail and a $16,000 fine respectively. Image: aiyoshi597 / Shutterstock.com

Travel Trouble

Millions in danger as Cyclone Alfred changes course

Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to make landfall in Australia's east coast, with millions of people being told to prepare, as the cyclone could bring more than half a metre of rain in some places. “This is a really significant event,” said the Bureau of Meteorology’s (BOM) Angus Hines late on Tuesday. “The main hazards we are expecting are heavy rain and flooding for large areas of Queensland and New South Wales, damaging to destructive winds as well as storm surge and coastal inundation”. A severe weather warning has also been put in place for almost 1000km of the coast, with water levels expected to exceed the highest tide of the year by around half a metre, according to the BOM. Due to it hitting a high pressure area, the cyclone has switched from heading north to south, and is now heading west. As of 4am on Wednesday morning, the cyclone was at category 2 strength, 465km east of Brisbane and 430km from the Gold Coast. A warning zone has been put in place from Double Island Point in Queensland to north of Grafton in New South Wales, as well as Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay and Ballina. BOM meteorologist Jonathon How said it would make landfall anytime from late Thursday into Friday. “The location of landfall will be critical because we are expecting to see the worst of the impacts, or most significant impacts, on the southern flank of the cyclone. “That does include places like Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and also the Northern Rivers.” Brisbane City Council has a flood modelling system in place, and according to the Courier Mail, as many as 20,000 properties could be at risk from inundation. In the Gold Coast, 6000 properties could be at risk. The maps of potential flood zones in the Brisbane City LGA show suburbs including Brighton, Windsor, Ashgrove, Indooroopilly, Sandgate are Rocklea at risk, while in the Gold Coast, Biggara Waters among others could be impacted by floods. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has urged residents to take the warnings seriously. “In the last few days we’ve spoken to people about having days to prepare, we’re moving into that phase where it’s now about hours,” he told ABC News Breakfast on Wednesday morning. “Do all the little things now, it’ll make a world of difference.” He added that if they are told to evacuate, “you should leave and I can’t be more blunt than that”. “The idea about replacing property, well, that’s another story for another day. Your priority is you. So if somebody tells you to leave, you should heed that advice.” Residents in northern NSW have also been urged to prepare. “What we need is the community to start being alert and preparing themselves,” NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Deb Platz told Today on Wednesday morning. Image: BOM

Travel Trouble

How to prepare for a cyclone, according to an expert

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/yetta-gurtner-2337172">Yetta Gurtner</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/james-cook-university-1167">James Cook University</a> Tropical Cyclone Alfred is predicted to make landfall anywhere <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-03-03/tropical-cyclone-alfred-landfall-thursday-live-updates/105002038">between Bundaberg and northern New South Wales</a> this week. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology <a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20023.html">has warned</a> it may bring severe hazards and “dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding”. So, how do you prepare for a cyclone – and what do you do if it’s too late to leave? <h2>How to prepare</h2> Your starting point is to consider the risk to yourself and everyone in your household (including pets). Consider ensuring you have: <ul> <li>non-perishable food that everyone in the family will eat (enough for five to seven days)</li> <li>water for drinking and cleaning (three litres per person per day)</li> <li>medication (two weeks worth)</li> <li>toiletries and first aid kit</li> <li>pet food/supplies</li> <li>torches</li> <li>batteries</li> <li>a back up battery for your phone</li> <li>baby formula and nappies if needed</li> <li>protective clothing and closed-in shoes</li> <li>cash in small denominations</li> <li>valuable documents such as passports, title deeds, ID, insurance details, photos (these can be photographed or packed in weather-proof container or envelope)</li> <li>kids’ books, card games, board games, headphones</li> <li>anything else you may need or really value (and isn’t too heavy to carry).</li> </ul> Make sure you have a grab-and-go kit that you can carry by yourself if authorities suddenly tell you to evacuate immediately. Conventional wisdom used to be to prepare enough supplies for three days of disruption. Now, experts recommend having enough for five to seven days. After the initial disaster there may be road blockages or supply chain problems. Ensure you have enough medication for a week or two, because pharmacies may take days or weeks to re-open. And remember that many medications, such as insulin, need to be refrigerated, so consider how you’d keep them cool if the power went out. Fill containers with water and stick them in your freezer now; they can keep your freezer cool if you lose power. They can also become drinking water in future. Talk to your neighbours. Do they have a generator or a camping fridge you can use? This is a great opportunity to get to know your community and pool your resources. Ask yourself if you have friends with whom you or a pet can stay. One of the main reasons people don’t evacuate is because they can’t bring their pets (not all evacuation shelters allow them, so check in advance). Consider what you can do now to prepare your house. One of the most common call-outs the SES receives is about blocked drains and gutters, so check if there’s time to clean your gutters now. You won’t be able to do it during the storm. <h2>Stay informed – and don’t rely on hearsay</h2> Have a plan for getting truthful information before, during and after the cyclone. Rely on the information provided by official sources, as they will tell you when it’s too late to evacuate or when it’s safe to come out. This is highly context-specific and will depend on where you are located. Get advice where possible from your local council’s <a href="https://www.qld.gov.au/community/disasters-emergencies/disasters/resources-translations/local-government-disaster-dashboards">disaster dashboard</a> (most councils have one). It should provide information such as where to get sandbags, which roads are closed (which can affect your evacuation plan) and evacuation centre openings and locations. Anyone who monitors social media will see how many amateur meteorologists and maps are out there, but these are often not the best source. Always rely on official sources rather than hearsay, trending footage or amateur “experts”. Always have an battery-operated AM-FM radio. If power goes out, relying on your phone to track information will drain your phone battery very quickly. You may be able to charge it via your car or laptop, but telecommunications networks may not be active. So having a battery-operated radio on hand – and plenty of batteries – is crucial. <h2>What if the cyclone hits while you’re at home?</h2> If it’s too late to evacuate, have a plan for sheltering in place. Find the smallest room in your house with the least windows (which can shatter in a storm). This is often the bathroom, but it could be under the stairs. It is usually on the lowest level of the house. Bring your food, water, radio, blankets and supplies there. Avoid walking around the house during the cyclone to fetch things; there could be glass on the floor or debris flying around. It’s hard to predict how long you will need to shelter there, but it’s important not to leave until official sources say it is safe to do so. Cyclones come in stages. They arrive from one direction, then comes an eerie calm as the “eye of the storm” passes over. Next, the other half of the cyclone arrives. Don’t go outside during the eye of the storm, because it’s not over. Outside the house, there may be powerlines down, broken glass and other hazards. Don’t venture out until you get official clearance from the disaster dashboard or official sources on the radio saying it is safe. For <a href="https://www.ses.qld.gov.au/ses-assistance">non-life threatening emergencies</a> – such as a tree on your roof, or water running through your house – call the SES on 132 500 or register on the <a href="https://apps.apple.com/au/app/ses-assistance-qld/id704964892">SES Assistance app</a> (if you’re in Queensland). They will not come during the event itself but will come later. If it’s a life threatening emergency, always call triple 0. <h2>After the storm</h2> After the storm, consider how to make your house more cyclone-ready in future. Many houses in North Queensland are designed for cyclone zones, but not as many further south will be. Climate change means cyclones are likely to be more severe in future. These days, be cyclone-ready 365 days a year.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/251251/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/yetta-gurtner-2337172">Yetta Gurtner</a>, Adjunct senior lecturer, Centre for Disaster Studies, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/james-cook-university-1167">James Cook University</a> Image credits: SBS News This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-cyclone-according-to-an-expert-251251">original article</a>. </div>

Travel Tips

"Critical": Cyclone Alfred's new landfall location revealed

New forecasts reveal that Tropical Cyclone Alfred is set to make landfall in Brisbane’s northern suburbs as it turns "directly" towards Queensland’s coast. The cyclone, upgraded to a category two system overnight, is expected to shift westward on Tuesday evening, putting Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast at risk. As of Tuesday morning, Cyclone Alfred was about 560km east of Brisbane. Bureau of Meteorology meteorologist Jonathon How indicated that landfall is expected between late Thursday and Friday. “The location of landfall will be critical because we are expecting to see the worst of the impacts, or most significant impacts, on the southern flank of the cyclone,” Mr How said. Areas likely to experience severe weather include Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Northern Rivers, with heavy rainfall expected across multiple regions. The Sunshine Coast may receive 200mm to 400mm of rain, while the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers could see extreme downpours between 500mm and 700mm. Southeast Queensland and northeastern NSW residents, particularly those between Tewantin and Grafton, have been advised to prepare for damaging winds up to 120km/h starting Wednesday. Heavy rainfall, potentially causing "dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding," is forecast from Thursday into Friday. Despite possible fluctuations in the cyclone’s intensity, the Bureau of Meteorology expects Alfred to remain a category two system upon landfall. Energex regional field delivery general manager Kev Lavender urged residents to prepare for potential power outages lasting up to three days. “We are ready to respond to any impacts from severe weather when it is safe to do so,” he stated, noting that strong winds and floods could extensively damage the electricity network. Residents of North Stradbroke Island and Moreton Bay Islands face the risk of being cut off from the mainland. With ferry services being suspended, many must decide whether to stay or evacuate. The last scheduled ferry departures from Victoria Point and Coochie were planned for Tuesday, with potential resumption on Friday, depending on weather conditions. SeaLink Bay Islands also announced possible service disruptions on Tuesday and additional cancellations on Wednesday and Thursday as the cyclone approaches. Coastal areas between Sandy Cape and Yamba have been warned about abnormally high tides and "significant beach erosion" caused by damaging surf. Multiple flood watches are in effect for rivers and catchments across both Queensland and New South Wales. Experts warn that sustained damaging winds and prolonged heavy rainfall could cause major property damage. “These damaging to destructive winds will be sustained over quite a long period of time, meaning we could see quite significant damage to properties and also trees,” Mr How explained. Supermarkets have already seen a surge in demand, with reports of empty shelves and water selling out across multiple Queensland suburbs. Essentials like milk and bread are also in short supply. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli urged supermarkets to keep shelves stocked and encouraged residents to prepare by gathering water, spare batteries, and phone chargers. NSW Premier Chris Minns stressed the importance of heeding emergency warnings and avoiding unnecessary risks, particularly driving through floodwaters. “We hope for the best, but we prepare for the worst,” Mr. Minns said, acknowledging that the cyclone warning brings back memories of the devastating 2022 Lismore floods. With widespread flooding and severe weather expected, authorities are urging all residents in the affected regions to remain vigilant, stay informed, and prepare for potentially significant disruptions in the coming days. Image: Windy.com

Travel Trouble

Young couple sold almost everything to live on a cruise ship

Two savvy US school teachers Monica Brzoska, 32, and Jorrell Conley, 36, have sold almost all of their possessions to live at sea. The couple fell in love with cruising after travelling to Mexico, Belize and Grand Cayman almost a decade ago. In 2023, after Monica's father fell ill, she was inspired to live the life she had always wanted. "Don’t wait for retirement to follow your dreams. Do it now," her mother had told her. That's when she and her husband made the life-changing decision. “Instead of coming back, why not keep booking consecutive cruises for as long as we could afford to?” Monica told The Sun. “It sounds mad, but the numbers made sense. Accommodation, food and entertainment would be included – we’d only need spending money. “And because we’d been on so many Carnival cruises, we’d earned access to some amazing offers. “If we chose the cheapest cabins, our savings from the pandemic would allow us to book eight months of cruising for $16,000 – some trips paid for in full, others with deposits. “We could then use the rent from our three-bedroom house in Memphis to make extra payments as needed. Many cruises start and end in the same ports, so we knew we’d be able to disembark and easily board our next ship, or otherwise fly to the port.” <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DEQkivEJ0DS/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DEQkivEJ0DS/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Monica Brzoska (@life_by_any_means)</a> </div> </blockquote> The pair quit their jobs, sold most of their possessions and rented out their three-bedroom home in Memphis, and have been cruising for almost two years now. Since making the move, the couple have completed 36 consecutive cruises and visited almost 50 countries. “I instantly felt free,” she said. “People are amazed when they hear we live on ships, and I’m always happy to share the tricks we’ve learned to save money. We’ve won excursion tickets, jewellery and spa treatments in onboard raffles, while on land, we do our own tours, using local transport to explore," she said. However, she admitted that there are a few challenges, including missing family, but regardless "it really is a dream come true". Image: Instagram

Retirement Life

Methanol victims parents call for boycott

The parents of Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, the two Melbourne teenagers who died of methanol poisoning in Laos, have urged Australians to boycott the country, after the government refused to meet with them three months after the tragedy. The two 19-year-olds were on a trip of a lifetime in Vang Vieng last November when they fell ill after consuming drinks that contained methanol at the Nana Backpacker Hostel. Bianca's parents, Mark and Michelle Jones, have told ABC on Monday that they still have not received any updates from the Laos government. “I mean, our girls were murdered and nothing’s getting done. And that’s really hard,” they said. “What are they hiding? That’s what I’m thinking, that’s what we’re all thinking. Someone’s got to be accountable for it.” Holly's mum has also urged Australian's against travelling to the country, saying: “Don’t go. Don’t go. It’s just not safe for travellers, it just isn’t, and we’ve seen that first hand." Mr Bowles added, if Laos wants “people to come to your country, make it safe. Make it a safe place”. The parents of Anne-Sofie Orkild, who also passed away after consuming the drink, agreed that a boycott of Laos is their only hope for answers. “It’s a lot of leverage, it’s a lot of money,” they said. “Our recommendation is not to go to Laos, it will hurt them.” Though the hostel remains closed, the staff members who were arrested after the tragedy have since been released from custody and are believed to be under house arrest, according to the ABC. “We were led to believe they had 12 people in custody, they’ve all been released,” Mr Jones said. “It’s incredibly concerning, it seems to reek of a cover-up. “I can’t imagine that from the distilling process through to handing out drinks, there’s not one Lao national who was involved in the chain – so something seems incredibly off.” Since the tragedy, the Australian government has backed the families' call for a transparent and thorough investigation, with Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong telling Sunrise last month: “I completely understand the anguish of the families who haven’t heard from the Laotian government for the last couple of months. “We will continue to press the Laotian government.” Image: 60 Minutes/ 7News

Travel Trouble

Millions urged to prepare for Cyclone Alfred

Millions of residents in Queensland and Northern New South Wales have been urged to prepare for a historic storm, as tropical Cyclone Alfred is just days away from approaching land. Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to cross anywhere from Bundaberg in Queensland and northern NSW on Thursday as a category two system, bringing up to 600 millimetres of rain per day. Authorities urged residents to stay vigilant and pay attention to warnings, while also urging locals to have a stash of food ready and to prepare their homes as best they can. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli said residents should do “everything they can” including having tinned food, making an emergency kit, gathering up passports and clearing debris from properties. The state government has requested telecommunication companies to increase network capacity to cope with an expected jump in internet usage and millions of messages throughout the emergency. Many homes in southeast Queensland are not built to withstand cyclones, with Mr Crisafulli urging residents to listen to warnings from authorities. “This part of the state has had its fair share of flooding challenges and has responded well, and I genuinely believe that people will heed warnings and will do the right thing,” he said. SES NSW urged residents to prepare for damaging winds, large surf and heavy rainfall with major riverine and flash flooding expected from Wednesday. “We are asking the community to take steps now to ensure that if you are asked to evacuate you have a plan for yourselves, your families and your pets and know where you will go,” NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Dean Storey said. The cyclone is hundreds of kilometres off Rockhampton and is expected to travel southeast until Tuesday, when it will swing west and make its way towards land. Image credits: Sunrise

Travel Trouble

Kiwi tourist banned for life after diving into Trevi Fountain

Three tourists from New Zealand have landed themselves in trouble after they were caught wading into the famous Trevi Fountain in central Rome. As they were being escorted away from the popular tourist attraction, one of them, a 30-year-old man wrestled free from the police and jumped into the fountain as authorities chased him, according to a spokesperson for Rome's Capitol Police. He managed to bypass the controlled area by climbing over the marble sculptures lining the fountain basin. "Alcohol was definitely involved," the spokesperson told CNN. The man was fined 500 euros ($832 AUD) and banned from visiting the iconic landmark for life. Each year, about a dozen tourists are fined for dipping things into the fountain, whether it is their toes or a water bottle, according to Roman police. Taking a dip in the fountain has been an aspiration for many tourists, who may have been inspired by Federico Fellini's 1960 film La Dolce Vita, where the main actress waded into the fountain in an evening gown. Other ill-behaved tourists have tried stealing some of the 1.5 million euros worth of coins that are thrown into the water each year. The money, is collected daily and donated to a charity. In 2024, the city introduced a limit to the number of visitors allowed to be in front of the fountain, to 400 at a time, with the access area open from 9 am to 9 pm daily. Image: vvoe / Shutterstock.com

Travel Trouble

Search for missing fisherman called off

Police have suspended their search for fisherman Paul Barning who fell overboard his boat during a fishing competition in New South Wales. The 58-year-old was competing in the Game Fishing Association state tournament off the Port Stephens coast on Sunday, when he fell overboard while trying to reel in large mako shark. Barning was helping his crew when became entangled in fishing wire and was dragged into the water as the shark darted back into the ocean. After a major three-day search, NSW Police have called off the search on Tuesday morning, with his family saying they “have no words” to describe how they are feeling. “Despite the efforts of searchers, the man has not yet been located and the search was suspended at 5pm today and will not resume (on Wednesday),” NSW Police said. The fisherman's wife, Leonie told 7News that the family have mixed emotions after the search was suspended, but are extremely grateful to everyone involved. “We just want to send out a huge thank you to everyone involved in the search and rescue, we were informed every step of the way,” she said. “And a huge thank you to the whole fishing community. We have been overwhelmed with kindness from everyone. “Our family meant everything to Paul, he would never hesitate to do the same for anyone else.” It is understood the fisherman was not wearing a life jacket when he went overboard. Barning, a father-of-three, was an experienced game fisherman and the secretary and past president of the Port Hacking Game Fishing Club. A <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-barning-family" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe </a>has since been launched by NSW Game and Fishing Association president Steve Lamond, to assist Barning's family during this difficult time, with over $148,000 raised. “We are raising funds to assist the family through this tragic time so they can focus on processing their grief," the fundraiser read. “Anything you could give to assist will be greatly appreciated.” Image: NSW Marine Rescue/ Facebook

Travel Trouble

Incredible winners of the 2025 Underwater Photographer of the Year awards

From thirsty camels and curious seals, to stealthy sharks and ocean-floor discoveries, these photos have been recognised as some of winners of the <a href="https://underwaterphotographeroftheyear.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2025 Underwater Photographer of the Year awards</a>. More than 6,700 photos were entered into this year's competition by photographers from 28 countries, with the contest capturing all that lies beneath the surface of oceans, lakes and rivers around the world. The winner of this year's prestigious overall Underwater Photographer of the Year prize is Alvaro Herrero for his mesmerising shot of the "special relationship between a mother humpback whale and her newborn calf". Competition judge Peter Rowlands says of the winning photo, "This delicate yet powerful study of a mother and calf’s bond says all that is great and good about our world. We face our challenges, but the increasing populations of humpback whales worldwide shows what can be achieved." Image credits: Underwater Photographer of the Year Awards

International Travel

Picturesque Aussie town named best of the year in 2025

A picturesque coastal town in New South Wales has been named the best Aussie town in 2025. In a break from the usual voting criteria, a collection of bays and beaches sitting just 2.5 hours drive up the coast from Sydney and just past Newcastle in NSW, the winning town is ever-growing in popularity. The areas of Salamander Bay, Corlette and Nelson Bay have banded together to see the region of Port Stephens crowned as the best in the country. Port Stephens has been praised for its must-see beaches, stunning sand dunes, sea life and national parks, with the region’s growing accommodation, adventure and food options. Popular travel app Wotif has announced the winners of its 2025 Aussie Town of the Year Awards, with new research revealing that 78 per cent of Aussies plan to travel domestically this year. Speaking to <a href="https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-ideas/best-of-travel/best-town-of-the-year-in-2025-revealed/news-story/b0f918d0bdb2b0577cf30382cab5d6d9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a>, Wotif’s Travel Expert Rebecca Hurley said the winning town is “the perfect place to switch off” thanks to the region’s “laid-back luxury” and “endless beaches”. “This year’s awards prove Aussies are being drawn to iconic coastal destinations right across the country, and Port Stephens stands out as this year’s number one,” Ms Hurley explained. “The region’s popularity has risen significantly in the last twelve months, with accommodation interest jumping up over 75 per cent." “It’s the perfect destination to just switch off and relax. It’s laid-back luxury, meets nature haven thanks to the endless beaches, parks, wildlife and sand dunes. Whether it’s a relaxing beach escape, or an adventure packed getaway, Port Stephens has something for everyone.” Ms Hurley said coming in second this year was Cairns in Queensland, while Mandurah in Western Australia ranked third. Check out the top 10 list of best Aussie towns for 2025 below. <p style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 24px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1. Port Stephens, NSW 2. Cairns, QLD 3. Mandurah, WA 4. Denmark, WA 5. Beechworth, VIC 6. Port Campbell, VIC 7. Murray Bridge, SA 8. Kingscliff, NSW 9. Yamba, NSW 10. Mackay, QLD <p style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 24px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Image credits: Shutterstock

Domestic Travel

I spy with my little eye: 3 unusual Australian plant ecosystems to spot on your next roadtrip

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/gregory-moore-1779">Gregory Moore</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> When the growing gets tough, the tough trees and shrubs get growing. Australia’s environment is brutal. Its ancient, low-nutrient soils and generally low rainfall make it a hard place for plants to grow. Despite this, the continent is filled with wonderfully diverse plant ecosystems. If you don’t know what you’re looking for, it can be easy to miss these seemingly unremarkable species. So, here are three little-known Australian plant species and ecosystems to look out for during your next roadtrip. <h2>1. Cycads and eucalypts</h2> If you are driving a coastal route along southern New South Wales, keep an eye out for the stunning combination of burrawang cycads (Macrozamia communis) and spotted gum (Corymbia maculata). These species live in harmony along the <a href="https://www.botanicgardens.org.au/our-science/our-collections/plant-families/cycads#:%7E:text=Meet%20one%20of%20the%20world's%20most%20southern%20Cycads&text=On%20the%20New%20South%20Wales,Spotted%20Gums%20(Corymbia%20maculata).">NSW coastline</a>, from Kempsey to Bega, and inland as far as Mudgee. If you’re on a road trip, now is the perfect time to talk to children about ancient moving continents, volcanoes and dinosaurs. Cycads are <a href="https://anpsa.org.au/APOL2009/feb09-s3.html">ancient gymnosperms</a> (cone-bearing plants) which evolved long before the Gondwanan supercontinent separated. These tough, hardy plants saw the dinosaurs come and go, and their relatives are found all around the world. These <a href="https://www.botanicgardens.org.au/our-science/our-collections/plant-families/cycads#:%7E:text=Not%20only%20is%20Macrozamia%20communis,inland%20as%20far%20as%20Mudgee.">cycads</a> form a striking understorey to the spotted gum. As their scientific name (Macrozamia communis) suggests, they form a dense community. Further north in Queensland, pineapple cycads (Lepidozamia peroffskyana), and Western Australia’s zamia palm (Macrozamia riedlei) are also worth spotting. Cycad seeds are poisonous, but First Nations Australians worked out a complex process to prepare them for <a href="https://www.apscience.org.au/apsf20036/">safe eating</a>. This involved dissolving the <a href="https://www.scienceflip.com.au/subjects/chemistry/equilibriumandacidreactions/learn10/">plant’s toxins</a> in running water, cooking, working and grinding the seeds into a powder. Spotted gums evolved long after dinosaurs went extinct. Early eucalypt fossils date from about 34 million years ago, while current species are often only a few million years old. Spotted gums are a great example of how plants that survive tough environments often also do well in difficult <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-humble-spotted-gum-is-a-world-class-urban-tree-heres-why-212540">urban situations</a>. Cycads are similarly found growing in poor soils and arid conditions. They have long, glossy leaves up to about 1.5 metres in length with lots of leaflets. There are both male and female plants. The female cone is an impressive, wide-domed structure that can be almost half a metre across. Its bright orange-red seeds are eaten by <a href="https://backyardbuddies.org.au/backyard-buddies/cycads/#:%7E:text=If%20you%20have%20a%20female,bats%20will%20feed%20on%20them.">foraging marsupials</a>, large birds and flying foxes. Spotted gums are tall, straight eucalyptus trees with dark green, glossy leaves. Old bark creates dark grey spots against their cream coloured trunk, giving them a mottled look. It is interesting to see ancient and modern species in such a close community relationship in cycad-spotted gum forests. Both are also well-adapted to the fires that frequent their habitat. <h2>2. Ancient acacias</h2> Travelling inland, the environment gets even tougher. Most large trees disappear and are replaced by woodlands dominated by <a href="https://www.agriculture.gov.au/sites/default/files/abares/forestsaustralia/publishingimages/forest%20profiles%202005/acacia_forests_2005.pdf">inland acacia</a> (wattle) species. These inland acacias are short but mighty, with deep, extensive root systems. Two of these species, <a href="http://theconversation.com/the-mighty-mulga-grows-deep-and-lives-long-118838">mulga</a> (Acacia aneura) and brigalow (A. harpophylla) are part of Australian folklore. A Banjo Paterson character <a href="https://gutenberg.net.au/ebooks/e00072.txt">says</a>: “You know how the brigalow grows […] saplings about as thick as a man’s arm”. Nutrients and water resources are limited, so mulga and brigalow trees are often evenly spaced across the landscape. This eerie symmetry makes it look like they were planted by humans. Many people are unaware that the twisted, stunted specimens they see are more than 250 years old and occupy vast tracts of the Australian landscape. <a href="https://www.dcceew.gov.au/environment/biodiversity/threatened/action-plan/priority-plants/waddy-wood">Waddy-wood</a> (Acacia peuce) is a rare species of acacia, found in just three locations on the edge of the Simpson Desert. This tree has very strong wood, and was used by Indigenous Australians for making clubs (waddys) and tools for carrying fire. Inland acacias were widely used by Indigenous Australians for their wood, resins and medicinal properties. They have also been used as <a href="https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/671421/using-mulga-as-a-forage-supplement-for-livestock-in-droughts.pdf">fodder for livestock</a>, especially during drought. These <a href="https://era.dpi.qld.gov.au/id/eprint/13430/1/QJAS_6%5B2%5D_1949_pp87-139_everist.pdf">crucial species</a> provide important habitat for other plants and animals. But they are under threat. As old trees collapse and die, there are no young trees replacing them. This is because of drought and grazing, compounded by <a href="https://www.agriculture.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/environmental-risk-mitigation-plan-acacia.pdf">climate change</a>. <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/desertification">Desertification</a> – where fertile land is degraded until it essentially becomes desert – is becoming a huge problem due to the massive area dominated by acacias. <h2>3. Boabs</h2> If you’re driving across the Northern Territory and Western Australia, you might come across the <a href="https://theconversation.com/built-like-buildings-boab-trees-are-life-savers-with-a-chequered-past-118821">mighty boab</a> (Adansonia gregoryii). These close relatives of the African and Madagascan baobabs <a href="https://theconversation.com/baobab-trees-all-come-from-madagascar-new-study-reveals-that-their-seeds-and-seedlings-floated-to-mainland-africa-and-all-the-way-to-australia-231031">floated to Australia</a> as seeds or seedlings around 12 million years ago. These <a href="https://www.australiangeographic.com.au/topics/science-environment/2019/07/how-did-the-iconic-boab-tree-get-to-australia/">deciduous trees</a> live in mostly dry environments that also experience strong monsoonal-type rains. Boabs trap and store water in their trunks, allowing them not only to survive but thrive. Their African and Madagascan baobab relatives are sometimes called <a href="https://www.oneearth.org/species-of-the-week-african-baobab-tree/">trees of life</a>, as they support many species. Australian boabs are similar. They offer habitat, roosting and nesting sites. Their flowers and fruits are food sources to many species of insects and birds. They were – and are – important trees in First Nations cultures. Carvings and symbols on their trunks can last for more than a century, much longer than on other trees. These are called <a href="https://www.snexplores.org/article/carvings-australia-boab-trees-lost-history-first-nation">dendroglyphs</a>. For example, <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-boab-trees-of-the-remote-tanami-desert-are-carved-with-centuries-of-indigenous-history-and-theyre-under-threat-191676">snake carvings</a> dated to more than 200 years old have been found on boab trees in Northern Australia’s Tanami Desert. While these special trees are usually found far from the beaten track, they can be spotted growing around Darwin and other remote towns. If you get the chance to see them, count yourself lucky. <h2>Tough terrain, tough trees</h2> Plant communities are remarkably resilient. They also display great creativity when evolving ways to survive tough environments. Make sure to keep an eye out as you’re exploring Australia and enjoy the fascinating plants our country has to offer.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/246129/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/gregory-moore-1779">Gregory Moore</a>, Senior Research Associate, School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/i-spy-with-my-little-eye-3-unusual-australian-plant-ecosystems-to-spot-on-your-next-roadtrip-246129">original article</a>. </div>

Domestic Travel

Our Partners

Over 60

News

Shop

Catalogues

Contests

Entertainment

Travel

Health

Lifestyle

Finance

Property

Games

Information

Keep up to date

Search

New details emerge after Gold Coast Hilton Hotel catches fire

New evidence points to fossilised remains of Noah's Ark

Police warn against idiotic cyclone behaviour

Teen charged after allegedly trying to board Jetstar flight with a gun

Flight attendant's act after touchdown divides social media users

‘Don’t panic, do prepare’: why it’s not too late to plan for Cyclone Alfred

Travel expert shares top luxury destinations for 2025

Stranded NASA astronauts close in on their return to Earth

Man charged after allegedly making bomb threats in airport

Millions in danger as Cyclone Alfred changes course

How to prepare for a cyclone, according to an expert

"Critical": Cyclone Alfred's new landfall location revealed

Young couple sold almost everything to live on a cruise ship

Methanol victims parents call for boycott

Millions urged to prepare for Cyclone Alfred

Kiwi tourist banned for life after diving into Trevi Fountain

Search for missing fisherman called off

Incredible winners of the 2025 Underwater Photographer of the Year awards

Picturesque Aussie town named best of the year in 2025

I spy with my little eye: 3 unusual Australian plant ecosystems to spot on your next roadtrip

Our Partners