Staff and researchers passing time in the John Gough Cyclone Shelter.
Tropical cyclones are a feature of northern Australia, and the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) region typically experiences 3 or 4 cyclones each summer season, varying from Category 1 (lowest intensity) to Category 5 (highest). Since Yasi in 2011, one of the most powerful experienced since records began, about 6 severe cyclones (Category 3-5) have impacted the GBR, including Ita (2014), Marcia (2015), Nathan (2015), Debbie (2017), Trevor (2019) and most recently Narelle (2026). Ita and Nathan heavily impacted Lizard Island with all staff and researchers evacuating to Cairns two years running: Ita crossed nearby on April 11, 2014 as a Category 4 system and Nathan less than a year later on March 20, 2015. Both events resulted in severe damage to vegetation, minor structural damage to Station facilities and devastating damage to coral reefs which were in its path. (Read past LIRRF posts here).
So it was with great satisfaction and pride that the John Gough Cyclone Shelter was built in 2017, generously funded by The Ian Potter Foundation. Built to withstand Category 5 cyclones, this shelter enables some staff and visitors to remain onsite and, once safe to do so, check to ensure that the electrical systems and the seawater systems in the aquarium are functioning, potentially saving valuable research projects.
About two weeks ago Tropical Cyclone Narelle was forecast to pass near Lizard Island as a Category 4-5 system. Well-documented preparation and evacuation plans were followed, 8 staff and visitors remained and for the first time the shelter was put to its intended use. Fortunately, Lizard Island escaped the most ferocious winds of Narelle as it passed to the north of the Island on the night of March 19. Co-Director Dr Emily Howells shares the experience on this ABC interview. We are happy to report there was no structural damage to Station Resort facilities. Seeking refuge in the Shelter eliminated the need for a full-Station evacuation, allowed quick assessment of impacts, and reduced operational delays for current and incoming visitors.
Click here to learn about who’s been at the station, the state of the reef after the cyclone, and an update on our new staff members in the April 2026 news.
Read past newsletters here.