For many homeless individuals in Moreton Bay, the Hope Centre Moreton in Rothwell became a crucial refuge during and in the wake of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. As torrential rains and strong winds battered the region, the centre opened its doors, offering temporary shelter to those with nowhere else to go.
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However, many of these individuals are still facing uncertainty, compounded by a new council ruling that makes camping on public land a criminal offence punishable by fines of up to $8,065.
One affected individual was forced to leave a makeshift home in a Clontarf car park and spent the weekend at the Hope Centre Moreton but now has nowhere to go. They claimed that while there was strong support from locals and community groups, there was little assistance from authorities.
The Department of Housing and Public Works has stated that all individuals who engaged with them at the refuge were either provided temporary housing or referred to Specialist Homelessness Services.
Still, local advocates argued this support is insufficient. Nourish Street Inc, an organisation launched to help those without homes in Brisbanes Northside, revealed that only a small number of people received accommodation, and those who did were only given short-term stays in hotels. They described the process as more of a name-taking and referral exercise rather than a genuine effort to provide housing.
The Northwest Community Group added that some people were unaware a cyclone was approaching, let alone had a plan in place.
The impact of the cyclone has only intensified an ongoing crisis for the homeless in Moreton Bay. With the council now enforcing strict penalties on illegal camping starting today, 12 March, many are considering moving into Brisbane’s jurisdiction to avoid fines.
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One individual suffering from mobility issues expressed fear and uncertainty about the future, stating that the stress of the situation had negatively affected their health.
Despite the hardships, the Hope Centre Moreton played a pivotal role in offering a temporary lifeline to those in need. Community-led efforts, like those of local charities, provided essential services, but many argue that long-term solutions are desperately needed. With the looming threat of fines and no clear path forward, the question remains: where will these people go next?
Published 12-March-2025
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