Mackay knows natural disasters. It’s written into the region’s history.

On 21 January 1918, a powerful tropical cyclone struck Mackay, carving its place in Queensland’s history as one of the most devastating weather events the state has ever seen. Winds exceeding 200 kilometres per hour, a five-metre storm surge, and torrential rain left the town in ruins. More than 90 per cent of homes were damaged or destroyed, roads and railways were blocked, telegraph lines were down, and the community was isolated for five days.

At least 30 lives were lost. Families took shelter in schools, hotels and public buildings while houses collapsed around them. The storm flattened crops and tore through cane fields, bringing the region’s sugar industry to a halt. When communication was finally restored, relief supplies were rushed in by rail and boat, but for many, the long road to recovery was just beginning.

This event is still remembered not only for its scale but also for what it teaches us about resilience.

The 1918 cyclone was one of the worst in Queensland’s history, but it wasn’t the first, and it won’t be the last. Since Mackay’s early days, at least 77 cyclones have passed within 150 kilometres of the city.

Mackay’s coastal location makes it one of the most cyclone-prone areas in the state. Along with intense winds, the region faces repeated threats of flooding, storm surge, bushfire and extreme heat. These risks haven’t changed over time, but the way we prepare for and manage them has.

Today, Mackay is in a far better position to withstand natural disasters. Building standards are stronger, early warning systems are faster and more accurate, and councils and emergency services work year-round to prepare for the season ahead.

Mayor Greg Williamson says planning at every level is key.

“It’s crucial that, as a community, each and every one of us takes the time to prepare our homes, properties and families… People need to have a number of survival plans in place to know what they are going to do in the event of a disaster striking.”

So, what would happen if a cyclone like the one in 1918 hit today? There would still be major impacts, but the outcome would likely be very different. Forecasts would provide earlier warnings, buildings would be more likely to stay standing, evacuations would be coordinated, and people would have time to act.

The danger hasn’t gone away, but the difference now is that we’re not starting from zero. Mackay has a plan, and every household should too.

Residents of Mackay Regional Council can access local updates and resources at mackay.qld.gov.au/residents/emergency_management or disaster.mackay.qld.gov.au.

Knowing your local risks and taking steps to get ready ahead of time can make all the difference when a disaster hits.

As the 2025–26 disaster season approaches, take the time to think about what you would do, make a plan for where you would go, and how you’d stay safe. Because when the next cyclone forms off the coast, your plan matters.