Cyclone Alfred Action Review

Community reflections and lessons

Overview

Following Cyclone Alfred, Plan C conducted an action review to understand how our communications, community support, and CCR network performed during the event. We invited feedback from community members across Northern Rivers to help shape future disaster response efforts.

A total of 33 people responded, representing a mix of trained Community Carers and Responders (CCRs) and untrained community members across seven LGAs. The feedback shows strong appreciation for Plan C’s role, especially in fostering calm, trust, and real-time community connection.

Key findings by question

What did we do well?

Top strengths highlighted:

  • Timely, localised, and emotionally attuned communication, particularly via WhatsApp.

  • Holistic preparedness, blending emotional support (e.g. meditations) with practical updates.

  • Trustworthy coordination during chaotic times — many respondents used words like “calm,” “reassuring,” and “grounding.”

  • Daily summaries and real-time information helped community members feel informed and supported.

“The emotional element to disaster preparedness was excellent… the repeated use of the word ‘together’ had an immediate and noticeable impact on me.” – Tweed Shire CCR

“Daily round-up from all groups published. Gave me a source of truth I could rely on.” – Lismore CCR

What could we improve on?

Most common suggestions:

  • Clearer communication prior to the cyclone, especially with mixed messaging from various sources.

  • More visibility in underrepresented villages (e.g. Clunes, Eltham).

  • Better links to local council and government supports, especially for businesses and recovery stages.

  • A template for reporting key info (e.g. power, roads, water) in daily updates was suggested.

“There wasn’t a lot of communication leading up to the event… so many mixed messages.” – Tweed Shire

“Some village info was missing – not sure what your remit is or how to help more.” – Lismore

What should we do differently next time?

Key recommendations:

  • Stronger coordination with ABC radio and mainstream channels for people without internet.

  • Map of local CCRs to aid connection.

  • More overt emotional preparation, which was widely valued but not always expected.

  • Encouragement to prepare radios, power banks, and backup supplies earlier.

“Wouldn’t it be great if your daily feeds could be read on ABC emergency coverage?” – Byron Shire CCR

“Let’s be even more explicit about the importance of the emotional aspects of preparedness.” – Tweed Shire CCR

Demographics

  • CCR-trained respondents: 21

  • Non-CCR respondents: 12

Responses by LGA:

  • Byron Shire: 13

  • Lismore City Council: 7

  • Tweed Shire: 6

  • Ballina Shire: 3

  • Richmond Valley Council: 2

  • Clarence Valley Council: 1

  • Other (e.g. Hervey Bay): 1

Final comments & reflections

  • Plan C was described as “invaluable,” “a godsend,” and “a backbone to community support.”

  • The WhatsApp groups were widely appreciated, not just for practical info but for building a felt sense of togetherness.

  • Multiple respondents said they felt safer, calmer, and better prepared — emotionally and practically — thanks to the network.

“Having this group helped me have a touchpoint and stay connected. Our household has extreme anxiety from past floods, and this helped ground us.” – Ballina Shire

“This was such a different experience from the big flood of ’22 – being linked in and trained made all the difference.” – Byron Shire