Cyclone Response, Community Support and Preparedness

This week at Fletcher Street Cottage, we faced wild weather while preparing for an approaching Cyclone Alfred. Here’s a look at how our community came together to support one another during these challenging conditions.

Highlights:

• This week, we experienced wet and wild weather as we prepared for the approaching Cyclone Alfred. Our team and volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure our clients had the support and resources they needed.
• We strongly advocated for a Byron-based evacuation centre and transport for rough sleepers. On Thursday morning, the Byron Bay Evacuation Centre at the Cavanbah Centre was opened, and a bus was coordinated to transport clients from Fletcher Street Cottage to the centre. We are grateful for the swift response and the support of the local community during this time.
• In response to the approaching cyclone, we extended our hours to offer disaster support. We acted as an information, referral and advocacy service, providing vital resources for those who needed them. We also distributed weather protection items to ensure our clients were as prepared as possible.
• Alice and Andrew from The Order of Malta kindly delivered boxes of jackets to ensure our clients stayed warm in the stormy conditions. Their generosity made a huge difference, and we are deeply appreciative of their support.
• We are extremely grateful for a donation of dry bags from Byron Shire Council and hand crank radios that double as torches from the Red Cross. These essential items will help our clients stay safe and informed during adverse weather conditions.
• On Wednesday, we were lucky to have a wonderful team of volunteers from the Commonwealth Bank in Byron Bay, who donated their time and love to cook a delicious breakfast for locals in need. We are so thankful for their kindness and ongoing support.

‍About Fletcher Street Cottage

Fletcher Street Cottage is a community hub in the heart of Byron Bay, offering essential support for individuals facing homelessness and hardship. Our services include nutritious meals, access to showers and laundry, advocacy, health services and more, all aimed at helping our clients move toward stability and self-sufficiency. With the support of our dedicated team, volunteers and generous community partners, we’re working every day to make a positive impact.