Here’s what you need to know

Emily Murphy Emily Murphy
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Tropical Cyclone Alfred is tracking towards the Queensland and northern NSW coast, bringing strong winds, heavy surf and potential flooding. Authorities have issued warnings for affected areas, with flight disruptions, park closures and evacuation alerts in place. Here’s the latest on what’s happening.

Qantas suspends flights ahead of Cyclone Alfred

Qantas and Jetstar have announced flight suspensions as Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches.

  • Gold Coast Airport is closed until at least 1pm on Friday.
  • Qantas and Jetstar flights to/from Ballina (Byron) are currently suspended.
  • Qantas flights to/from Coffs Harbour are currently suspended.
  • Flights to Lord Howe Island are grounded.
  • Qantas will suspend flights in Brisbane from mid-afternoon today. Jetstar flights will be suspended from midday local time today.
  • At this stage, flights to and from Sunshine Coast and Hervey Bay continue as scheduled.
  • Customers with flights booked to or from, Brisbane, Bundaberg, Coffs Harbour, Gold Coast, Hervey Bay, Lord Howe Island and Sunshine Coast (Maroochydore) between 4 and 9 March 2025 can opt for a travel credit or a fee-free date change (up to 14 days from the original travel date, subject to availability).

Discovery Parks closures in Byron Bay, Ballina, and Casino

Discovery Parks has announced the temporary closure of its parks in Byron Bay, Ballina, and Casino due to safety concerns.

  • High winds may lead to falling trees and flying debris.
  • Guests with bookings will be contacted regarding their stays.
  • Residents onsite are advised to seek alternative accommodation.
  • Visit the SES NSW website for evacuation centre information.

Greyhound Australia cancels SEQ services

  • Affected routes: Brisbane <> Hervey Bay (including the Sunshine Coast), Brisbane <> Toowoomba, Brisbane <> Byron Bay (including the Gold Coast).
  • Cancellations effective from 1pm today until Sunday 9 March.
  • Other services remain operational, including routes to northern Queensland, western Queensland and Sydney.
  • Further cancellations may occur depending on the cyclone’s impact.
  • Passengers can reschedule for free or request a travel credit via Greyhound’s Customer Service team.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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Community response on the Gold Coast

Kristie Lau-Adams describes the scene on the Gold Coast:

  • Saturday morning is now when the cyclone is expected to hit land.
  • People are supporting each other, sharing supplies and offering updates on storm-related obstructions.
  • The sun is still peeking through at times, but the rain is pretty consistent now – strong bursts mixed with steady sprays. It feels very unpredictable, and like it could all change at any minute!
  • Gold Coast’s sandbagging stations reopened from 11am today until 5pm as people continue to prepare – though time is running out as these gusts have gained force. Both stations are DIY, so you’ve got to bring your own shovel and bags.
    • Carrara Sports Precinct Parking, via Alabaster Drive, Carrara
    • Tugun Village Community Centre, 414 Coolangatta Road, Tugun
  • Heavy winds have picked up. A sunny morning saw many people go to check the surf under clear skies, but they have since retreated indoors for safety.

Byron Shire: Storm surge but little rain so far

Lara Picone reports from Byron Shire:

  • Beaches have disappeared due to the storm surge.
  • Intermittent sunshine, with little rain so far.
  • Now expected to make landfall tomorrow morning. The delayed landfall means it will miss coinciding with high tide, reducing the immediate risk of flooding.
  • Many areas have ‘prepare to evacuate’ orders in place.

Sunshine Coast sees blue skies but winds picking up

Celeste Mitchell reports from the Sunshine Coast:

  • Clear skies and strong surf conditions this morning, but winds have started to increase.
  • The cyclone is expected to make landfall on Friday afternoon.
  • Schools and daycares are closed, and residents are urged to stay indoors.

Stay updated

  • Track real-time updates on the Gold Coast Disaster Dashboard.
  • Follow local SES and government warnings.
  • Prepare for potential evacuation orders if you are in at-risk areas.

This is a rolling update – check back for more information as the situation develops.

Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
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8 experiences that prove The Bellarine is the ultimate multi-gen getaway

    Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
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    No matter your age and no matter your interests, Victoria’s coastal Bellarine region makes for a memorable getaway for the whole family.

    Curving into Port Phillip Bay and extending south from Geelong, The Bellarine is a gorgeous coast-meets-country destination. It’s a captivating mix of beachside towns, rolling farms and vineyards, effortlessly cool eating and drinking spots and coastal vistas that seem to stretch beyond the horizon.

    Among its many highlights is a plethora of family-friendly activities to suit all ages and all interests. Here’s your guide to the ultimate Bellarine getaway guaranteed to keep every generation happy.

    1. Tuckerberry Hill Farm

    Tuckerberry Hill Farm
    Pick your own fruit at Tuckerberry Hill Farm.

    There may be no better way to spend an early morning than by foraging and feasting on your own bounty of berries. At Tuckerberry Hill Farm, you can pick blueberries, strawberries and stone fruit from November through March. Take them home or enjoy on the farm’s sun-dappled grounds.

    Tuckerberry also has a regular market selling farm-fresh produce, plus an inviting on-site cafe doing light lunches, drinks, home-baked treats and condiments – many of which incorporate the farm’s own harvest.

    2. The Oxley Estate

    The Oxley Estate
    Wake up to the neighbours.

    A memorable holiday starts with a memorable place to stay, and The Oxley Estate delivers. Situated in the relaxed coastal town of Portarlington, the sprawling site offers thoughtfully styled rooms and activities that’ll keep both parents and kids entertained.

    Wander the fragrant rose gardens, olive grove and fruit-laden orchards. Meet the resident alpacas, donkeys, goats, sheep, chickens and ducks. Challenge your crew to a round of giant chess or mini golf. Or cool off in the shimmering saltwater pool after a busy day of exploring.

    Different room types cater to different groups, with the largest able to comfortably sleep eight.

    3. Oneday Estate

    Oneday Estate
    Taste small batch wines at Oneday Estate.

    Oneday Estate is a must-visit, featuring a restaurant, winery and bar. The winery lets you try small-batch, estate-grown shiraz, pinot noir and riesling. It’s also a vibrant and character-filled Sunday lunch spot in an eclectic stone-and-timber hall crafted from recycled materials and 100-year-old relics repurposed from the surrounding region.

    The on-site eatery and bar hosts weekly Sunday Sessions accompanied by tunes from local musicians, a buzzy atmosphere and flavour-packed food and drink. Order a round of delicious woodfired pizzas with toppings to suit all tastes, alongside a glass of Oneday’s signature wine.

    4. BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon

    BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon
    Kids will love BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon.

    BIG4 holiday parks are renowned for their all-ages appeal, and BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon in the coastal enclave of Queenscliff is no different. The pool and gym are a given, but there’s also a playground, pickleball and basketball courts, a jumbo-sized jump pad, an interactive games arena and an indoor games room equipped with toys, activities and entertainment.

    The diverse range of accommodation spans compact studios designed for three guests, all the way up to expansive beach houses accommodating up to 10, providing comfort and flexibility to suit every size of family.

    5. Bellarine Railway

    Bellarine Railway
    Take a journey aboard the Bellarine Railway.

    If your entourage includes any locomotive enthusiasts, book a journey aboard the Bellarine Railway. The more than 100-year-old steam train transports you to a bygone era and takes you through the rolling farmland and windswept coastal landscapes that make The Bellarine so beautiful.

    The Swan Bay Express is an easy 45-minute ride perfect for younger passengers (and even allows dogs on board), or you could opt for a themed trip. There are seasonal events like the Polar Express (a festive favourite in the lead-up to Christmas), along with the Blues Train (a high-energy experience of live music and dancing) and The Q Train (a roving fine-dining feast celebrating regional produce).

    6. The Dunes

    waiter holding desserts at The Dunes, the bellarine
    Save room for dessert. (Image: Visit Vic)

    The Dunes offers the perfect balance of polished and playful, a breezy beachside bar and restaurant that appeals to adults and kids alike.

    Feast on moreish snacks, share plates and mains from the Italian-inspired menu, or a selection of San Marzano-topped pizzas fresh from the wood-fired oven. Pair your meal with a classic cocktail, an ice-cold beer or a glass from the generous drinks menu, which brims with local drops. Little ones are well catered for with a line-up of kid-approved meals for breakfast and lunch.

    If you’re simply swinging by en route to the family-friendly beach, grab a bite at The Dunes’ beachside kiosk before strolling down for a paddle or surf.

    7. Sea All Dolphin Swims

    dolphins playing in The Bellarine
    Spot the locals with Sea All Dolphin Swims. (Image: Visit Vic)

    The sparkling waters around The Bellarine are home to dolphins, fur seals, plus a flurry of seabirds. Sea All Dolphin Swims lets you see some of these magnificent animals up close aboard one of their small-group vessels.

    Head out on a sightseeing tour and spot local wildlife darting around the boat, or dive right in with a swim adventure tour. You’ll be swimming alongside dolphins and seals in their natural habitat – a bucket-list experience you won’t forget fast.

    Swimming and snorkelling gear is provided, and guides are trained to ensure a gentle, eco-friendly encounter for both swimmers and sea creatures.

     8. Jack Rabbit

    aerial of jack rabbit winery and vineyard
    Everyone has a menu to enjoy at Jack Rabbit. (Image: Visit Vic)

    Jack Rabbit is a one-stop dining destination, with a casual cafe and refined restaurant in one place.

    If your mood leans laid-back, the House of Jack Rabbit is a lovely spot for brunch, lunch or dinner. The cafe serves a produce-driven all-day menu filled with seasonal mains, generous sharing platters and a playful kids menu to suit even the pickiest of eaters.

    If you’re after something more elevated, Jack Rabbit Restaurant does plates that change with the seasons and incorporate plenty of local produce. Even younger guests are well catered to, with a considered yet familiar kids’ menu that’s just as vibrant as the grown-up one.

    To start planning your trip or for more inspiration, head to visitgeelongbellarine.com.au