EDITOR’S NOTE: This is a developing story. Last update: 10 March 2025 10:00 a.m.
An emergency alert has been issued for Kenmore amid fears that the Gubberley Creek Detention Basin could severely overflow, sending dangerous floodwaters into surrounding streets and forcing residents to prepare for evacuation as the crisis escalates across Brisbane.
Kenmore, along with multiple suburbs across Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan, and the Gold Coast, has been severely impacted by the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
Despite the recent heavy rainfall, locals said that Gubberley Street remains clear, with the creek flowing steadily but staying well below the Cedar Crossing bridge.
Traffic, including small sedans, continues to move through the area without issue. Longtime residents note that flooding was not a concern on Gubberley Street even during the 1974 floods. Additionally, conditions on Akuna Street have improved as water levels have receded.
However, in some areas, the storm dumped over 300mm of rain, causing widespread flooding, power outages, and emergency rescues. Traffic, including small sedans, continues to move through the area without issue.
Floodwaters Overwhelm South East Queensland
Since Sunday morning, 9 March, South East Queensland has been inundated by extreme rainfall, triggering major flood warnings for the Logan, Albert, and Bremer Rivers, as well as Warrill and Laidley Creeks. Streets, homes, and businesses in Kenmore, Oxley, and Indooroopilly have been swallowed by rising water, with some residents forced to evacuate in the middle of the night.
The severe weather has also wreaked havoc on infrastructure, with more than 220,000 homes and businesses losing power and emergency services responding to over 3,600 calls for assistance. The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services have carried out multiple swift water rescues.
Premier David Crisafulli said authorities were working around the clock to assist affected communities, urging residents to stay connected and prepared. He warned that while the worst of the system was moving south, conditions remained dangerous, and flash flooding was still possible.
Drinking Water at Risk as Floods Impact Treatment Plants
In addition to the immediate dangers posed by floodwaters, water quality concerns have emerged across Brisbane and surrounding regions. Seqwater has warned that flood events can introduce sediment, organic waste, and industrial pollutants into the water supply, making treatment more difficult.
While Brisbane’s 30+ water treatment plants remain operational, authorities have assured residents that any significant water safety concerns would prompt a boil water advisory. Residents have been advised to store clean drinking water ahead of future severe weather events and to report any unusual changes in their water’s colour, taste, or smell.
Massive Recovery Effort Underway
With rainfall easing but floodwaters still dangerously high in some areas, recovery efforts have begun. Energex crews are working to restore power to thousands of homes, with extra workers from northern Queensland arriving to assist. Emergency teams are also assessing damaged roads, infrastructure, and homes, while residents begin the difficult task of cleaning up their properties.
Authorities have urged people to remain cautious, avoid driving through floodwaters, and stay informed as conditions continue to evolve. For Kenmore residents and others in flood-affected areas, the priority remains safety, preparedness, and staying informed as the region braces for the lasting impacts of yet another major weather event.
Evacuation Centres Open for Residents Affected by Flooding
Updated: 10 March 2025
Council has opened evacuation centres for residents needing to leave their homes due to flooding.
Evacuation Centres Now Open:
- Sleeman Sports Complex (Chandler Arena) – 757 Tilley Road, Chandler, 4155 (access via Old Cleveland Road, Car Park 3)
- Kedron Wavell Services Club – 21 Kittyhawk Drive, Chermside, 4032
- Community-led Evacuation Centre: Riverlife Community Centre – 47 Jennifer Street, Seventeen Mile Rocks, 4073
Safety Reminders:
- Check alerts and road conditions before evacuating.
- Leave early and avoid driving through floodwaters.
- If stopping, avoid parking near trees, creeks, or drains.
What to Bring:
- Essential items – mobile phone, charger, spare clothing, toiletries, towel, important documents (e.g., insurance papers, passports, medical prescriptions).
- Medication and infant supplies – formula, nappies, or any special medical needs.
- Bedding – pillows and blankets are recommended.
- Before leaving: Inform neighbours, turn off electricity and gas, and lock your home.
Pet Guidelines:
- Sleeman Sports Complex & Riverlife Community Centre – Pets allowed but must be crated, leashed, and securely transported. Owners must bring food and litter trays.
- Kedron Wavell Services Club – No pets allowed, except for registered service animals.
Brisbane Council Service Updates Following Cyclone Alfred
As of 10 March 10:00 a.m.
Council has adjusted its services and facility operations due to Alfred’s impact.
Closures Until Further Notice:
- Cemeteries, City Hall, Community Halls, Libraries, Pools, and Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
- Five Council Customer Service Centres (North & South Regional Business Centres, Indooroopilly, Carindale, Brisbane Square)
- Golf Courses and Off-Street Parking (King George Square & Wickham Terrace)
- Mountain bike tracks at Gap Creek and Mt Coot-tha Reserve
- All Council-run playground water play areas
- CityCat, KittyCat, and most bus services
- Story Bridge footpaths
Service Suspensions:
- Brisbane Greeter tours, Immunisation Clinics, Active & Healthy classes (until 11 March)
- Visible Ink youth hub (until 11 March)
- Council Cabs and Personalised Public Transport services
- Kerbside large item collection and bin repair services
Open Facilities & Services:
- Chandler and Ferny Grove Resource Recovery Centres (offering free green waste drop-off)
- Regular bin collections (yellow and green bins resume 10 March)
For more information, visit brisbane.qld.gov.au or call 07 3403 8888. For public transport updates, visit translink.com.au or call 13 12 30. Traffic information is available at QLDtraffic.qld.gov.au or 13 19 40.
Published 10-March-2025
