Nambour businesses battered by Alfred urged to seek help
Nambour Chamber of Commerce President, Mark Bray, with Nambour Bowls Club President Graham Morton
The Nambour Chamber of Commerce's March Coffee Catchup at Walters Artisan Bakery on Currie Street was a somber affair, as business owners grappled with the aftermath of Cyclone Alfred's rain bomb.
"Some of those owners here today, some of their businesses may not survive," said Chamber President Mark Bray. He said he had visited around 10 businesses along the creek yesterday, and the damage was severe. "The water inundation, some of them are very slowly getting back on their feet, some a little bit quicker."
Council's Tim McGee was on hand to assure businesses that the local government stands ready to assist. "If you are struggling from the inundation or from the disruption that this event has caused, reach out to our team," he said, directing them to contact specific council staff members.
The meeting also featured updates from other community groups. Suzanne from the Horizon Festival said Nambour would be a "major hub" for the upcoming arts festival, with events at the old ambulance station.
Michelle from 91.1 Hot FM radio spoke about opportunities for businesses to get involved in their "Paint the Town" promotion.
And Kerry Brown from MP Ted O'Brien's office urged affected businesses to reach out for federal disaster assistance, noting a mobile office would be set up in Nambour next week.
Despite the hardship, Mr Bray said the Nambour business community remained resilient. "Every person I spoke to yesterday, they're positive, they're accepting things, and I'm sure that they'll be able to move forward."
Mr Bray also provided the following information for business owners affected by the flooding, to assist them to access financial support:
As we recover from the impacts of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, many local businesses are facing significant disruptions and damage. To support your recovery, we’ve compiled a list of helpful resources for businesses and a step by step guide to get you back operating as soon as possible.
Next steps:1. Document damage and contact your insurer:
If you haven’t already, take photos and videos of all damage before starting cleanup. List damaged items and keep receipts for any emergency repairs. Contact your insurer as soon as possible to start your claim. If you need assistance, the Insurance Council of Australia has a disaster hotline: 1800 734 621 or visit www.insurancecouncil.com.au.2. Access financial and business support:
Complete the Disaster Impact Survey from Business QLD. This helps gather vital information on the challenges you’re facing and the impact of recent events. Your responses will directly support efforts to secure funding, grants and resources for local businesses in the region.
• Disaster Recovery Allowance - The Australian Government has announced financial assistance for affected employees and sole traders who have lost income, more information can be found Qld Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, Mar 2025 - Disaster Recovery Allowance - Services Australia
• Legal Aid Queensland offers disaster legal help, providing free initial consultations on insurance claims, property damage and business interruption issues, contact their helpline for more information 1300 527 700.
• For advice and support if your business has been forced to close or reduce operations check out the Fair Work Ombudsman resources.
• The Small Business Financial Counselling service provides free financial councillors support to business owners. Find out more here Small Business Financial Counsellor
• Sunshine Coast Council’s Local Business Support team offers a range of support services to help local businesses post disaster event, find out more at Level Up program by Sunshine Coast Council
• Mental health and wellbeing supportFree and confidential programs are available for business owners, such as Business Wellness Coaching and NewAccess3. More information on managing your business after a cyclone or major weather event can be found on the Business Queensland webpage. Joe Proctor from the Department of Small & Family business has also offered to be contacted directly: joe.proctor@desbt.qld.gov.au
4. Council are also available to support you through this challenging time, so please reach out to Council’s Customer Contact team on (07) 5475 7272, or Council’s Local Business Support team via businessdevelopment@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au if you require assistance.
5. Representatives from the Nambour Chamber of Commerce and Sunshine Coast Council will also be available to speak with personally this Sunday 16th March in the Library Forecourt between 9am-12noon.
