Weathering the Storm, Together

As the storm swept along the Queensland coast, Nudgee College stood firm, not only in its physical foundations, but through the coordinated efforts of our Boarding, Property & Services, and Transport teams. Their extraordinary response ensured the safety and wellbeing of every student in our care.

With the Dean of Boarding, Casey Brealy, attending the ICPA conference in Katherine, NT, the on-site Boarding team, led by Wayne Stewart and our Heads of Boarding Houses, successfully secured appropriate care for all 315 boarders within 24 hours. Their calm and decisive leadership under pressure was a clear reflection of the strength of Nudgee’s pastoral care. With conditions changing rapidly and hazards mounting, the decision to evacuate was both timely and wise. While several schools across Queensland experienced more severe damage, Nudgee’s swift and compassionate response helped avoid major risks and ensured students were never in harm’s way. Principal Scott Thomson reflected “All EREA Principals in South East Queensland, along with fellow GPS schools, were in agreement with this decision in consultation with the QLD Premier. For Nudgee, it was about making sure our community was safe from whatever Cyclone Alfred produced”

The challenges didn’t end once the boarders left campus. Throughout the week, staff maintained consistent communication with families, coordinated return plans, and supported boys who were unable to return promptly from regional areas. Academic staff showed great flexibility, adjusting class plans and assessments to accommodate late arrivals. The College’s understanding of the impact on rural and remote families was evident in every decision made.

At the same time, the Transport team sprang into action, coordinating a complex schedule of bus runs and routes to get all students safely off campus and to their designated locations. They ensured every student travelled safely home and back again, despite heavy weather and while undergoing a Department of Transport audit. Logistics Manager Todd Dening remarked “Despite road closures and changing conditions, the team coordinated special boarders’ services to the Sunshine Coast and Goondiwindi. While one attempt was halted west of Ipswich, a successful run the following day saw 84 students safely return via Toowoomba”

Not to forget the Property and Services team, who were instrumental before, during, and after the storm. Their meticulous pre-cyclone preparations helped minimise damage, and their clean-up work began as soon as conditions allowed. From clearing debris to managing drainage and electrical systems, their dedication restored the campus to safe, working order with impressive speed and care.

While Cyclone Alfred brought its share of disruption, it also revealed the very best of the Nudgee spirit: resilience, compassion and teamwork. In the face of adversity, the College rose together, each part of the community stepping up to protect, support and lead.