The vehicle barge and one of the ferry services to North Stradbroke Island have been suspended this morning as Tropical Cyclone Marcia sends strong winds and heavy rain to the Redlands.
The vehicle barge to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands has also been suspended.
The Redland Bay Hall, 5 Weinam Street, Redland Bay, and Redland Performing Arts Centre, 2 Middle Street, Cleveland, have opened as respite centres for anyone stranded by barges not running.
The Gold Cat passenger ferry to Stradbroke and the passenger ferry to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands are still running. Passengers are being advised the latter could be suspended at any time so please check for updates.
Redland City Council also advises that roads are flooding, so please obey warning signs and do not enter floodwaters.
In other advisories issued this morning:
- Power lines are down on Macleay Island.
- Leslie Harrison Dam has spilled over. Local businesses and residents were notified several days ago that this would happen.
- Ormiston College has advised that parents consider the option of keeping students home, although it remains open.
- The sandbag station is still operating at Redlands Showgrounds. You also can call 132 500 for assistance.
Redland City Mayor and Local Disaster Management Group Chair Karen Williams said Redlanders should brace for very heavy rain and the likelihood of flash flooding with Tropical Cyclone Marcia hitting the Capricorn Coast this morning as a category 5.
“As a city of foreshores and islands, people need to ensure they stay away from water’s edge due to expected tidal surges,’’ Cr Williams said.
“People on islands should only travel if necessary and be prepared to not be able to get back as passenger ferries could stop.
“I cannot stress enough the need for safety and common sense. Please don’t ever try to drive or walk through floodwaters, watch for fallen trees and stay well clear of fallen power lines.’’
For all the latest news and updates, follow Redland City Council at www.redland.qld.gov.au, as well as on Facebook (Facebook.com/RedlandCouncil) and Twitter (Twitter.com/RedlandCouncil).
Stay tuned to the Bureau of Meteorology and the media for updates, particularly ABC 612 and Bay FM 100.3.
For more information on the weather event in the Redlands keep watching our live updates rolling blog which includes our Twitter feed and videos on how to prepare.
