One week on from Tropical Cyclone Narelle crossing Cape York, Cook Shire Council continues to work alongside the Queensland Government and on-ground partners to respond to the widespread impacts and begin the transition toward recovery.
Mayor Cr Robyn Holmes said while significant progress has been made, the full extent of damage is still being assessed across a vast and remote region.
“This wasn’t a small event,” Cr Holmes said.
“We are looking at an impacted area of more than 47,000 square kilometres, including over 34,000 square kilometres within Cook Shire alone.
“Around 45 stations and home have been affected, with damage to infrastructure, livestock, fencing, roads, river systems and the natural environment. The full extent of that impact is still emerging.”
Cr Holmes acknowledged the uncertainty many residents and property owners are facing.
“For many people, this isn’t just about damage—it’s about not knowing where to start. Some are still without basic supplies, and there are properties we have not yet been able to reach.
“We hear you. We understand how overwhelming this is.”
Over the past week, Council has worked closely with the State and emergency response agencies to prioritise safety, access and immediate needs.
Key actions to date include:
- Restoring water services in Coen and lifting water restrictions
- Submitting a request to the Queensland Government for emergency funding to support impacted community members
- Conducting extensive aerial damage assessments
- Coordinating airdrops of food, fuel and fresh water to isolated properties
- Supporting residents, staff and volunteers to return to their properties
- Deploying Council teams to undertake emergency electrical and building repairs, and assist with clean-up
Council’s Local Disaster Recovery Committee has also been working behind the scenes to establish a coordinated and targeted support system for the weeks, months and potentially years ahead.
Access to affected areas remains a key challenge, with ongoing flooding and infrastructure damage limiting movement across the region.
Weather permitting, the Peninsula Developmental Road is expected to reopen shortly, which will significantly improve access for supplies, equipment and recovery efforts.
Cr Holmes also acknowledged the support of partner agencies.
“Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service in Coen have been instrumental in getting boots on the ground to assist with clean-up efforts, and we thank them for their support.”
In addition to impacts on properties and infrastructure, significant environmental damage is also being assessed, including within the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve in Cape York.
Cr Holmes said it is important the scale of the event is understood.
“While the impacts may be less visible due to the remoteness of our region, a Category 3 system tracked through a significant portion of the Cape.
“The scale of impact across land, agriculture, environment and livelihoods is substantial.”
Council is continuing direct outreach to affected residents and property owners to better understand immediate and longer-term needs.
“We are still in the response phase, but we are beginning to move toward recovery,” Cr Holmes said.
“We are here, we are listening, and we will continue working alongside the State and our communities to support recovery—step by step.”
Residents requiring assistance are encouraged to contact Council by calling (07) 4082 0500 during office hours, or email dmo@cook.qld.gov.au at any time.
What’s the Mayor’s update below:
