As Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches, we continue to monitor the impact on freight, logistics, and supply chain operations across Queensland and northern New South Wales. Below is the latest information gathered from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), the National Coordination Mechanism (NCM), Brisbane Airport Corporation, Cargo Terminal Operators (CTOs), and port stakeholders.

Regulatory & Government Agency Updates

  • DAFF Advisory:
    • Priority will be given to urgent biosecurity inspections (e.g., perishable goods).
    • Non-urgent inspections may experience delays post-cyclone.
    • Import document processing will continue as normal.
    • Clients with impacted appointments are being contacted directly.
  • National Coordination Mechanism (NCM) Preparedness Meeting:
    • Ports & Shipping:
      • Inbound & outbound vessel movements suspended by MSQ.
      • Queensland coastal ferry services paused from midday 5 March.
    • Aviation:
      • Brisbane Airport remains operational but could suspend ramp services if wind speeds exceed 40 knots.
      • Qantas and Jetstar have ceased operations at Ballina, Gold Coast, and Coffs Harbour.
      • Freight shipments in/out of affected airports may face temporary embargoes.
    • Road & Rail:
      • Road closures and rail suspensions will occur as flooding risk increases.
      • Queensland Rail will cease operations once the cyclone reaches 150km from the coast.
    • Supermarkets & Supply Chains:
      • Increased stock levels for essential goods.
      • Power outages could disrupt refrigeration, and bottled water supplies are under strain.
    • Fuel & Power Concerns:
      • Emergency fuel access and generator support are being prepared.
      • Telcos (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone) are mobilizing backup generators.
    • Flooding & Emergency Planning:
      • Major flooding expected in Lower Brisbane River, Wilsons River, and Richmond River (Lismore).
      • The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has been mobilized for flood recovery.

Brisbane Airport & Cargo Terminal Operators (CTO) Updates

  • Brisbane Airport:
    • Still operating as normal but closely monitoring developments.
    • Further updates expected later today, 5 March 2025.
  • CTO Updates:
    • Qantas Freight: Urgent priority freight will continue, but temporary embargoes may be implemented for affected ports.
    • dnata & Menzies Aviation: Operations remain unchanged unless directed otherwise.

Brisbane Port & Terminal Updates

  • Vessel Movements:
    • Inbound & outbound vessel movements suspended.
    • Tug operations ceased from midday 5 March and are on emergency standby.
  • Terminal Closures:
    • Patrick: Imports closed. Terminal plans to reopen evening shift on Friday 7 March (pending safety clearance).
    • DP World: Imports closed. Terminal expected to reopen Saturday 8 March at 07:00 (weather permitting).
    • Hutchison Ports: Imports closed until at least Friday 7 March, with a review before potential reopening on Saturday 8 March at 06:00.
    • AAT: Imports operating until the end of 5 March. Terminal to remain closed over the weekend and reopen Monday 10 March.
  • Empty Container Parks:
    • Several parks have ceased operations due to safety concerns. Customers should check with providers for alternative arrangements.
  • Port of Brisbane Access:
    • No changes to landside access at Fisherman Islands and other precincts.
    • Businesses should continue implementing severe weather preparedness plans.

Next Steps & Recommendations

  • Terminal operations are expected to resume by Saturday 8 March 2025, pending weather conditions.
  • Customers are advised to liaise with airlines, Cargo Terminal Operators (CTOs), transport operators, and service providers to assess potential disruptions.
  • We will provide further updates as more information becomes available.

For any questions or concerns, please reach out to your local representative.