The tragic loss of human life and subsequent emotional torment still being experienced by Queensland and New South Wales communities characterises the catastrophe that was Tropical Cyclone Debbie.
Director of Griffith University’s soon-to-be launched Cities Research Institute, Professor Paul Burton, will lead a panel discussion delving into the aftermath of the disaster.
Over the past month, Griffith University researchers have undertaken comprehensive fact-finding and data collation missions to better understand the enormity of the 2017weather event
Researchers investigated the impacts across both the natural and built environment, from the devastation to the Great Barrier Reef to the disruption of business supply chains.
The panel discussion will explore the related impacts, and investigate how this research can be used to better equip Australia to minimise the effects of similar future events.
The members of the panel are:
- Dr Andrews Brooks who has been investigating the effects of the sediment run off on the Great Barrier Reef from flooding associated with TC Debbie.
- Dr Serena Lee who recently led a rapid assessment team to Far North Queensland to measure the storm surge extent.
- Dr Darrell Strauss who coordinates research activities in support of coastal management and increased coastal resilience with the support of the Queensland Government, local government and other industry partners.
- Professor Peter Tatham, a global expert in the field of humanitarian logistics – the logistic preparation and response to disasters and complex emergencies.
The free event will be held at Griffith’s Gold Coast Campus at 6pm on June 30. Seats are limited and registration is essential, book here.
The new Cities Research Institute, which now incorporates the Griffith Centre for Coastal Management, is being officially launched by City of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate on Thursday evening.
