Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred: Dreamworld to open exclusively for Energex and NDMS workers

A Queensland disaster manager worked 18 hours a day in the lead up to ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred — she’s just one of thousands of frontline heroes set to be honoured on the Gold Coast this weekend.

Triple M Gold and Dreamworld are coming together to celebrate the resilience and dedication of the Volunteers and Energex workers who played a vital role in restoring the Gold Coast following the impact of tropical Cyclone Alfred. Kenny and Belinda Koala, together with Nick Channell from Optus, Liam Flanagan and Leisel Jones from MMM, pamper Sam Stenberg from NDMS before the event. Picture Glenn Hampson

A Queensland disaster manager worked 18 hours a day in the lead up to ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred — she’s just one of thousands of frontline heroes set to be honoured on the Gold Coast this weekend.

Triple M Gold, Optus and Dreamworld will celebrate the National Disaster Management Services (NDMS) Australia volunteers and Energex teams by opening its doors to the workers and their families exclusively from 8.30am on Saturday in a thank you from the city.

Kenny and Belinda Koala, together with Nick Channell from Optus, Liam Flanagan and Leisel Jones from MMM, pamper Sam Stenberg from NDMS before the event. Picture Glenn Hampson

Dreamworld CEO Greg Yong said the “tireless” efforts of frontline workers were “humbling”.

“This event is a small way for us to say thank you, give them a chance to unwind and remind them how valued they are,” he said.

National Disaster Management Services (NDMS) Australia founder Sam Stenberg said the event was “absolutely amazing” and was the first time they were “officially thanked” since they launched in 2017.

“It’s very much appreciated and it helps organisations like ours grow and also retain volunteers,” she said.

Gold Coast show the scars from Cyclone Alfred. Picture Glenn Hampson

Ms Stenberg said she had to navigate charities, council staff and co-ordinate donations to damaged areas during ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

She had to work mammoth days of 18 hours in the lead up to the weather event, continuing after the system hit the southeast Queensland region.

“Please be patient with workers and services,” she said.

“They are workers just trying to do their jobs within a framework and risk management.

“Displacement is not easy, losing your things isn’t easy but things are replaceable. People are not.”

Flooding on the Gold Coast in the aftermath of Cyclone Alfred. Flooding at Yatala. Picture Glenn Hampson

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Originally published as Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred: Dreamworld to open exclusively for Energex and NDMS workers