The HEART of the Storm: Cyclone Alfred

March 26, 2025

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As Cyclone Alfred rapidly approached the Northern Rivers region, communities across Banora Point, Casino, Grafton, and Tweed Heads braced for the worst. Among those standing firm in the face of the storm was St. Joseph’s Tweed Heads maintenance officer Joe Vella. With widespread road closures making it uncertain when he would see his wife Jacinta, who also works at the facility, and their young children again, Joe left his home in Murwillumbah to drive the community bus, ensuring the residents received the care they needed.

Already working long hours to secure the facility by putting up tarps and ensuring everything was in place before the storm hit, Joe and his colleague Tom Harte drove through streets covered in tree branches and debris to pick up and drop off staff anxious about driving in the horrific conditions. Putting his safety and wellbeing before all else, he was just one of the many, many people embodying the spirit of selflessness and dedication in responding to Cyclone Alfred.

“No one knew what was coming but what I did know was that I needed to help,” Joe said.

“The thought of leaving my wife and two young children during such a tumultuous time was daunting but knowing that family was nearby provided some comfort.

“I knew I couldn’t sit back while this was going on around me, so did what I could to help.”

Pictured Above: Joe and Jacinta Vella

In a remarkable show of resilience and community spirit, help poured in from every direction. With supermarkets closed, supplies were carefully sourced and swiftly delivered. Leaks were quickly patched up preventing further damage. Catering Industries prepared countless meals in anticipation of potential power outages. Staff worked double shifts and still volunteered to do more.

Despite many still suffering the immense losses of the 2022 floods, the team did not falter. Instead of succumbing to fear, they rallied together, working beyond what was expected of them. No one was untouched by the sense of unity and collective purpose that brought everyone together.

Regional Manager Far North Coast Agnes Samson Scott said quite simply she couldn’t have asked for more from anyone. Despite a fear of the unknown, she said everyone lived out our Heart values, and their actions galvanized their unwavering commitment.

"Honestly, words cannot describe how everyone came together and worked around the clock without me even having to ask, they all just put their hands up and said, ‘what can I do to help’," she said.

"Everyone did whatever was needed to make sure that not only the residents felt safe, but their colleagues did too.

Staff securing tarps at St. Martha's Banora Point in the lead-up to the storm

“In fact, at the height of the storm some of the residents were working on their step count for The Everest Challenge they were that well cared for and happy.

“I have never been prouder than watching how everyone came together. Some left their families to stay at the homes as they knew it would be hard to get to work due to road closures, others did double shifts and still wanted to do more, our Home Care team were in constant contact with their clients checking in on them as did our team in the retirement villages.

“There honestly are too many examples to list, over the course of the week and despite their own fears and anxieties I saw countless acts of bravery, courage, compassion and care.

"This event has validated my confidence in the whole team and despite everything they’ve been through, we are stronger than ever."

Thanks to their high level of preparedness, Cyclone Alfred came and went without any injuries or significant damage to the homes. Instead, the experience forged a stronger bond among the staff and residents, highlighting the extraordinary commitment and unity within the community.

Joe Vella and Tom Harte preparing generators for the storm