Tropical Cyclone Alfred creates rare swell for Mackay surfers

Mackay surf community swarm for rare waves and explains what makes the local scene so special.

North Wall Beach, Mackay February 26, 2025

Mackay surfers came out in numbers on Wednesday morning to take advantage of rare conditions driven by major storm surges.

Tropical Cyclone Alfred currently sits around 900km off the Queensland coast and although it is too early to be sure, experts say it is could make landfall from Tuesday.

In the meantime, opportunistic locals are making the most of a novelty wave forming out at North Wall Beach which is forecast to only get bigger in the coming days.

Tom Motto usually kitesurfs but was quick to knock off work for an early morning session on his short board.

“It only comes around a few times a year when we get our surf,” he said.

“I need big waves when I go kite surfing.

“When it does turn on and you get that south, southeast coming through, it’s incredible.”

Garry Anderson also known as ‘Paddle-pop’ continues to enjoy the waves on his surfski

Sixty-seven year old Garry Anderson, known as ‘Paddle-pop’, says Mackay’s surfing community is unlike most along the Queensland coast.

“Here there’s none of this hostility,” he said.

“If you go down the Gold Coast, where people talk about Snapper Rocks, you will never catch a wave there. They just won’t let you in.”

Riley Smith says the community feel makes it perfect for young surfers like him to learn the ropes.

Mark the Fisho, North Wall Beach, Mackay February 25, 2025. Photo: Polly Waffle

“There’s some old blokes out there that can tell I’m earning and they’re giving me tips,” he said.

“People aren’t all defensive of the waves because they’re not that good. Whereas down south they’re defensive of it.

“If you go surf Noosa and you’re not a local, people might get mad at you.”

Michael Dray, North Wall Beach, Mackay February 25, 2025. Photo: Polly Waffle

Cyclone Alfred has a high possibility it will hit highly populated areas of the Queensland Coast by early next week, between and Townsville with a direct hit on Mackay a possibility.

It has developed into a category three system.

Mayor Greg Williamson says Mackay isn’t in an alert stage yet but that people should prepare.

“We don’t need to rush out and get every piece of food item off Coles or Woolies shelves at the moment,” he said.

“It’s not to that extent, just make sure that you’re aware.”

The council’s Emergency Management Plan can be accessed via the Mackay Regional Council website.