I was pleased to accept, from a Special Representative of the United Nations, a certificate for Cairns, being the first city in the WORLD to demonstrate that it is ready for disaster.

Ms Margareta Wahlstrom was very impressed with the cooperation between government and non-government organisations - Emergency Management Queensland, Police, James Cook Uni, Fire and Ambulance Service, Department of Communities, SES, Red Cross, Tourism bodies, Lifeline etc.She stated that Cairns is way ahead of European countries in its awareness, planning, preparation and mitigation of hazards that can lead to disasters. In addition, we've opened the new Disaster Coordination Centre at Woree, a category 5 cyclone proof building with state of the art computer systems.

Former Cairns Councillor Mr Jeff Pezutti was very pleased to have the Operations room named after him in recognition of his 15 years of commitment and chairing of the Local Disaster Management Group; a position that I now hold. Make sure you have your cyclone kit ready.