Cyclone Tracy changed the Territory’s emergency preparation plans for the better

Cyclone Tracy survivor Gail Coffey prepared for the storm by taping her windows and filling the bath with water. Here’s how the Territory’s emergency plans have changed since then.

Almost 50 years ago, Gail Coffey’s cyclone preparation was no more than taped-up windows and a bathtub filled with water.

When her third-floor Fannie Bay flat “disintegrated” thanks to Cyclone Tracy, her efforts had little impact.

“The bath disappeared,” she said.

“I don’t know where the bath went, but we went back the next day, and it was unbelievable.”

Ms Coffey no longer lives in the Territory, but she said she now prepares for Bribie Island’s floods.

“We don’t get cyclones, we get floods in the wet season here, but I am absolutely fanatical about packing things and making sure that the first aid kit’s got everything it’s supposed to have in it,” she said.

“I’ve never actually had to use it, I just do that now which I would never have bothered to do before.”

Gail Coffey and her daughter Jo were evacuated to New Zealand soon after Cyclone Tracy. She was able to return to Darwin six months later. Picture: Supplied

In 2022, first aid kits are just one component of cyclone preparation in the Territory.

A Department of Chief Minister and Cabinet spokeswoman said the Top End was prone to cyclones from November to May and Territorians should be prepared throughout that period.

“The protection of your family, your home, and your possessions is your responsibility,” she said.

“Territorians should make sure their house is safe if they choose to stay at home.”

Chief Minister Natasha Fyles said the monsoons were a last reminder to Territorians to check what’s around their properties.

“It might seem harmless, but with strong winds, it can cause an impact, so now’s the chance to put it in the bin, do that tip run, and also just prepare,” she said.

“Have you got some food on hand, essentials, medicines, and important documents?

“What is your personal plan for your family, particularly for vulnerable people and pets?”

Ms Fyles said the Territory had a strong cyclone and emergency management response.

“It would depend on the category of the cyclone, the location – whether it was in a remote or an urban area,” she said.

“We would follow the advice from our emergency management team.”

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Originally published as Cyclone Tracy changed the Territory’s emergency preparation plans for the better