Here’s what you need to know

Emily MurphyBy Emily Murphy
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Tropical Cyclone Alfred is tracking towards the Queensland and northern NSW coast, bringing strong winds, heavy surf and potential flooding. Authorities have issued warnings for affected areas, with flight disruptions, park closures and evacuation alerts in place. Here’s the latest on what’s happening.

Qantas suspends flights ahead of Cyclone Alfred

Qantas and Jetstar have announced flight suspensions as Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches.

  • Gold Coast Airport is closed until at least 1pm on Friday.
  • Qantas and Jetstar flights to/from Ballina (Byron) are currently suspended.
  • Qantas flights to/from Coffs Harbour are currently suspended.
  • Flights to Lord Howe Island are grounded.
  • Qantas will suspend flights in Brisbane from mid-afternoon today. Jetstar flights will be suspended from midday local time today.
  • At this stage, flights to and from Sunshine Coast and Hervey Bay continue as scheduled.
  • Customers with flights booked to or from, Brisbane, Bundaberg, Coffs Harbour, Gold Coast, Hervey Bay, Lord Howe Island and Sunshine Coast (Maroochydore) between 4 and 9 March 2025 can opt for a travel credit or a fee-free date change (up to 14 days from the original travel date, subject to availability).

Discovery Parks closures in Byron Bay, Ballina, and Casino

Discovery Parks has announced the temporary closure of its parks in Byron Bay, Ballina, and Casino due to safety concerns.

  • High winds may lead to falling trees and flying debris.
  • Guests with bookings will be contacted regarding their stays.
  • Residents onsite are advised to seek alternative accommodation.
  • Visit the SES NSW website for evacuation centre information.

Greyhound Australia cancels SEQ services

  • Affected routes: Brisbane <> Hervey Bay (including the Sunshine Coast), Brisbane <> Toowoomba, Brisbane <> Byron Bay (including the Gold Coast).
  • Cancellations effective from 1pm today until Sunday 9 March.
  • Other services remain operational, including routes to northern Queensland, western Queensland and Sydney.
  • Further cancellations may occur depending on the cyclone’s impact.
  • Passengers can reschedule for free or request a travel credit via Greyhound’s Customer Service team.

Community response on the Gold Coast

Kristie Lau-Adams describes the scene on the Gold Coast:

  • Saturday morning is now when the cyclone is expected to hit land.
  • People are supporting each other, sharing supplies and offering updates on storm-related obstructions.
  • The sun is still peeking through at times, but the rain is pretty consistent now – strong bursts mixed with steady sprays. It feels very unpredictable, and like it could all change at any minute!
  • Gold Coast’s sandbagging stations reopened from 11am today until 5pm as people continue to prepare – though time is running out as these gusts have gained force. Both stations are DIY, so you’ve got to bring your own shovel and bags.
    • Carrara Sports Precinct Parking, via Alabaster Drive, Carrara
    • Tugun Village Community Centre, 414 Coolangatta Road, Tugun
  • Heavy winds have picked up. A sunny morning saw many people go to check the surf under clear skies, but they have since retreated indoors for safety.

Byron Shire: Storm surge but little rain so far

Lara Picone reports from Byron Shire:

  • Beaches have disappeared due to the storm surge.
  • Intermittent sunshine, with little rain so far.
  • Now expected to make landfall tomorrow morning. The delayed landfall means it will miss coinciding with high tide, reducing the immediate risk of flooding.
  • Many areas have ‘prepare to evacuate’ orders in place.

Sunshine Coast sees blue skies but winds picking up

Celeste Mitchell reports from the Sunshine Coast:

  • Clear skies and strong surf conditions this morning, but winds have started to increase.
  • The cyclone is expected to make landfall on Friday afternoon.
  • Schools and daycares are closed, and residents are urged to stay indoors.

Stay updated

  • Track real-time updates on the Gold Coast Disaster Dashboard .
  • Follow local SES and government warnings.
  • Prepare for potential evacuation orders if you are in at-risk areas.

This is a rolling update – check back for more information as the situation develops.

Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
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Your guide to a gourmand getaway along the Murray River

    Gemma KaczerepaBy Gemma Kaczerepa
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    Feast your way through Sun Country on the Murray – a beautiful and bountiful region in northern Victoria with gourmet delights galore.

    Nestled on the lands of the Yorta Yorta People along the mighty Murray River, Sun Country is a truly extraordinary place. The northern Victorian enclave is a tapestry of meandering waterways, ancient forests, sandy beaches, enchanting country towns and an easy way of life.

    Beyond its landscapes and bucolic charm, Sun Country on the Murray is a culinary paradise: think farm-fresh produce, family-run wineries and no shortage of places to feast.

    If you’re a serious foodie or simply epicurious, here’s your ultimate guide to a gourmand Murray River getaway.

    The Murray Farm Gate Trail

    The self-guided Murray Gate Farm Trail lets you sample the area’s best produce while immersing yourself in the lush Goulburn and Murray Valleys. The trail has something to suit every palate and pace, but there are a few notable highlights.

    1. Rich Glen

    Rich Glen Provedore and Rich Glen Skin & Beauty
    Stock up at Rich Glen. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

    Rich Glen is renowned for its award-winning olive oils. Everything is grown and created on the family farm in Yarrawonga, the results of which you can visit at Rich Glen Provedore – a treasure trove of gourmet foods, including that signature olive oil. Or explore Rich Glen Skin & Beauty, which stocks lush handmade skincare and wellness products.

    2. How Now Dairy

    A charming micro-farm producing ethical dairy, How Now Dairy , lets its baby calves remain with their mothers and its cows roam on rolling pesticide-free pastures. Try a selection of cheeses that do good and taste good, including a fantastic punchy blue, and velvety milk with a thick, creamy top.

    3. Cactus Country

    Cactus Country in the murray
    Stop into Cactus Country. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

    Cactus Country is a 12-acre stretch of desert-like garden containing cacti of all shapes, sizes and colours. Naturally, it makes the most of its bounty at the on-site bar and restaurant, with a cactus-infused dessert menu alongside a vibrant line-up of Mexican snacks and mains.

    4. The Olde Creamery

    The Olde Creamery is a local icon, a former hobby farm that has flourished into a thriving purveyor of flowers and foods. The elderflower cordial and bramble gin and tonic jam are must-tries, and make for tasty mementoes of your trip.

    Wineries, breweries and distilleries

    The region’s sunny climate and rich soils make it a prime place for viticulture. If wine isn’t your thing, you’ll also find boutique breweries and distilleries producing top-notch beers and spirits.

    1. Squires Winery

    a couple sitting at the bar at squire's winery, sun country on the murray
    Pop in for a tasting. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    With its idyllic positioning on the Ovens River, Squires Winery is a lovely setting for a long, leisurely lunch or tasting. Enjoy a riverside sip of prosecco, rosé or cab sauv, complemented by seasonal bites and a backdrop of towering gum trees.

    2. Cape Horn Vineyard

    Cape Horn is one of the region’s most established vineyards. Its sparkling durif/shiraz is a crowd favourite and well worth trying on your foodie tour, especially if it’s served with one of the winery’s delicious wood-fired pizzas.

    3. Byramine Homestead & Brewery

    Byramine Homestead brewery
    Enjoy a tipple at this historic homestead.

    A top pick among beer, cider and history enthusiasts, Byramine serves a rotation of brews made on-site in the historic homestead. Wander through the venue and learn about its colonial past before sitting down to a freshly made Ploughman’s and cold local ale.

    4. Monichino Wines

    Monichino is a slice of la dolce vita in northern Victoria, producing classic Italian varietals like pinot grigio and aromatica. Drop by for a tasting at the cellar door (open weekends or by appointment) and explore everything from crisp whites to robust fortified wines, or pack a picnic and savour your glass in the picturesque gardens.

    5. Corowa Distilling Co

    Corowa Distilling Co
    Sit down to a hearty lunch. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Corowa Distilling Co crafts an incredible variety of single-malt and blended whiskies, and is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. Stop in for a tasting flight in the whisky room, or a hearty breakfast or lunch paired with a wee dram.

    Farm-to-table dining

    If you’ve got the time to linger over a gourmet spread, Sun Country on the Murray has an abundance of outstanding restaurants and cafes.

    1. O’Reilly’s Food and Wine

    O’Reilly’s feels much like stepping into a good friend’s home, albeit with a refined twist. The menu changes weekly and rotates through a selection of comforting yet elevated dishes – think lamb cottage pie, French-style moussaka, a perennially popular open steak sandwich and cakes that change flavours weekly.

    2. Stock and Barrel

    a couple eating at Stock and Barrel victoria
    Soak in views of Lake Mulwala. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Tucked inside The Sebel Yarrawonga hotel, overlooking sparkling Lake Mulwala, Stock and Barrel does pub classics with a Sun Country spin. Order a perfectly seared steak and triple-cooked potatoes alongside a freshly poured pint, or try a regional highlight: local produce features abundantly across Stock and Barrel’s dishes.

    3. The Bend

    With spacious decks and panoramic views of the Murray, The Bend is ideal for a sun-soaked long lunch. Order a round of moreish share plates (like baja fish tacos and a warm-from-the-oven brioche loaf stuffed with cream cheese and herbs) or a signature cocktail and indulgent main – we can’t go past the slow-braised wagyu brisket.

    4. Blacksmith Provedore

    Black Smith Provedore
    Taste Blacksmith Provedore’s delicious pizzas. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

    If you’re after a slick yet relaxed dining destination, head to Blacksmith Provedore . Perched right next to Lake Mulwala, the venue is airy and elegant, with a minimalist-chic design. The pizzas are seriously good too, made with 72-hour fermented dough and toppings sourced from Italy’s finest producers.

    5. Broken Willow

    As soon as you enter Broken Willow ’s front doors, you’re greeted with genuine hospitality and a classic bistro menu that has something for everyone: succulent grilled meats, parmas and schnitzels, juicy burgers, and international dishes ranging from weekly curry and stir-fry specials to zippy banh mi.

    While you’re there

    Thompson Beach in sun country on the murray
    Discover plenty to do between meals. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

    Got a few hours to spare? Make the most of your trip by exploring the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of your riverside surroundings.

    Barmah National Park is a sanctuary of walks through majestic river red gums and serene wetlands. Here, a seat on board a Kingfisher River Cruise offers a different Murray experience, letting you see the vast river from the perspective of the Yorta Yorta peoples.

    If you’re a watersport enthusiast, Lake Mulwala in Yarrawonga is a favourite for canoeing, cruising, fishing, kayaking and water skiing. While the silo murals at Katamatite, St James, Tungamah and more recently Waaia are essential stops in Victoria’s famed Silo Art Trail .

    In Cobram Barooga, make sure to visit Thompson’s Beach, the largest inland beach in the southern hemisphere. Nearby, the Bullanginya Dreaming project is an award-winning 1.8km immersive art experience that immerses you in light and sound to tell a rich story of country, culture and connection.

    Start planning a tasty getaway to Sun Country on The Murray at suncountryonthemurray.com.au.