We have been busy here with about 260 students preparing the college for Alfred, including closing up the shutters to Wensley and CB, taping windows and storing loose items into secure spaces.

We will endeavour to update the community as we move through the event. With climate change contributing to an increase in extreme weather events, strengthening community resilience is more important than ever. But I am encouraged by the response of King’s College to this most recent event, and I believe it showcases the incredible resilience and cooperation that define our community. While government agencies and emergency responders play a critical role, the power of everyday Kingsmen and Kingswomen coming together cannot be overstated.

When disasters strike, people often find themselves relying on neighbours and local networks before official emergency services can reach them. Community-led responses have played a crucial role in previous disasters in Queensland. At King’s, we have a strong support network both here on the campus and with our UQ and St Lucia neighbours.

• Brisbane Floods (2011 & 2022): In both flood events, volunteers formed the 'Mud Army'—a grassroots movement of residents who banded together to clean up homes, businesses, and public spaces after the waters receded. Their efforts significantly expedited the recovery process and helped ease the burden on local authorities.
• Tropical Cyclone Debbie (2017): The aftermath of this severe cyclone saw towns cut off from essential supplies. Local community hubs and businesses worked with emergency responders to distribute food, water, and medical aid.
• Black Summer Bushfires (2019-2020): While this event impacted multiple states, Queensland communities played a vital role in providing shelter and aid to displaced residents and wildlife. Local charities, firefighters, and volunteers collaborated to offer immediate relief and ongoing recovery assistance.

Preparedness and immediate response strategies are key to staying safe during significant weather events. Here at King’s, some of our strategies have been…

1. Developing Communication Networks: Before and during disasters, effective communication is critical. Social media, emergency broadcast alerts, and local chat groups help disseminate real-time information about weather conditions, evacuation procedures, and resource availability to those on campus.
2. Shelter Coordination: If evacuation becomes necessary, we will work together to arrange emergency bedding and accommodation and have already prepped two venues in the college for this, if needed.
3. Providing Mental and Emotional Support: The emotional toll of natural disasters can be profound. Mental health support services, along with informal networks of family and friends, play a crucial role in helping individuals cope with loss and trauma. Members of King’s College are reminded to seek support, if required, from Adele Johnston or any trusted person.

Thank you to the many members of the extended King's College community for your offers of assistance and support. I look forward to updating everyone after the event.