The Rapid Relief Team (RRT) has supported Caboolture and other cyclone-affected communities across Queensland and New South Wales, delivering essential aid before, during and after ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
Over a 12-day period, from 3 March to 13 March 2025, RRT volunteers provided thousands of meals and filled and distributed sandbags. They also assisted emergency service crews and displaced residents.
Mobilising for Relief: RRT’s Immediate Response
As Ex-Cyclone Alfred approached, emergency services called on RRT to help with sandbagging efforts. They aimed to protect homes from rising floodwaters. Volunteers produced and distributed thousands of sandbags using specialised sandbagging machines.
RRT teams also prepared and served meals at evacuation centres, ensuring that affected residents and frontline workers had access to food. In Caboolture alone, volunteers served more than 1,900 meals, providing critical support to both displaced locals and individuals experiencing homelessness.
Delivering Critical Aid: Meals, Snacks, and Sandbags
RRT’s response across Queensland and New South Wales involved a large-scale distribution of essential supplies, including:
- 33,500 sandbags to protect properties from floodwaters.
- 3,650 meals for emergency responders and affected residents.
- 4,060 Frontline Snack Packs for SES crews, police, and other emergency workers.
Caboolture volunteers were especially active in Moreton Bay Council Evacuation Centres. They played a key role in feeding displaced residents during the crisis.
Supporting Emergency Services and Communities
Beyond Caboolture, RRT volunteers provided aid across multiple regions. This includes Brisbane, Nambour, Gympie, Toowoomba, Warwick, Armidale, Maitland, and Newcastle. They worked alongside emergency responders, ensuring that SES, police, and fire crews received meals and support while managing storm-related incidents.
Additional supplies were dispatched from New South Wales to assist Queensland communities. RRT’s Penrith team packed 2,000 Frontline Snack Packs, a BBQ trailer, and emergency supplies for distribution in affected areas. Volunteers in Maryborough and Hervey Bay ensured SES crews remained well-fed while responding to flash flooding events.
Community Strength and Volunteer Efforts
The relief effort was driven by RRT’s extensive volunteer network. It operates as the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church. Since its establishment in 2013, RRT has expanded to more than 16,000 volunteers. They provide disaster relief and community support across Australia.
Looking Ahead: Ongoing Support and Future Readiness
As communities continue to recover, RRT remains committed to assisting in Caboolture and other affected areas. The scale of the response to Ex-Cyclone Alfred highlights the essential role of volunteer organisations in disaster relief efforts.
Published 17-Mar-2025
Photo Credit: Rapid Relief Team AU/Facebook
