One Tree Island
Cyclone Management Plan
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
Fire, Ambulance, Police
000
Local Disaster Management
Group Coordinator
District Disaster Management
Group
District Disaster
Coordinator
Disaster District
Executive Officer
Harbour Control (24 hr)
Mark Holmes 0410 490 905 [email protected];
Insp. Darren
Somerville
Snr. Sgt
Jane Healy
07 4977 6655 [email protected]
Harbour Master
John Fallon
07 4971 5200
Assistant Harbour Master
Jennifer
Tumbers
Ana Vila
Concejo
0477 736 087 [email protected]
University of Sydney
One Tree Island Research
Station Director
University of Sydney
Work Health & Safety Adviser
University of Sydney Security
Hotline (24h)
Effective Date:
Review Date:
Copies to:
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07 4971 3222 [email protected]
07 4971 3283 [email protected]
0419 496 610
07 4971 5208
02 9351 5190 [email protected]
0432 077 760
Will Figueira 02 9351 2039 [email protected]
(2016
onwards)
Steve Marker 02 8627 8541 [email protected]
0422 488 160
02 9351 3333
March 30, 2015
March 30, 2016
One Tree Island Research Station Managers
University of Sydney Emergency Management Group
Gladstone Local Disaster Management Group
Gladstone District Disaster Management Group (Police)
CONTENTS
Purpose ................................................................................................................................................ 4
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... 4
Cyclone Season ............................................................................................................................................ 4
Cyclone Threat Monitoring .......................................................................................................................... 4
Cyclone Preparedness .......................................................................................................................... 5
Pre-Cyclone Season Preparation ................................................................................................................. 5
Responsibilities .................................................................................................................................... 5
One Tree Island Station Managers .............................................................................................................. 5
One Tree Island Director.............................................................................................................................. 5
Researchers and visitors .............................................................................................................................. 5
Cyclone Response ................................................................................................................................ 6
STAGE........................................................................................................................................................... 6
KEY ACTION .................................................................................................................................................. 6
DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................................................... 6
Stage 1 - Monitor ......................................................................................................................................... 6
Stage 2 – evacuation.................................................................................................................................... 6
Stage 3 – Remain on station ........................................................................................................................ 7
Stage 4 – Reopen ......................................................................................................................................... 8
Appendix A – University of Sydney Emergency management group .................................................. 9
TITLE ............................................................................................................................................................. 9
NAME ........................................................................................................................................................... 9
OFFICE NUMBER .......................................................................................................................................... 9
MOBILE NUMBER......................................................................................................................................... 9
EMAIL ........................................................................................................................................................... 9
Appendix B - Station Cyclone Shutdown Checklist ............................................................................ 10
TASK and BUILDINGS ................................................................................................................................. 10
YES ............................................................................................................................................................. 10
Appendix C - Cyclone Kit Contents..................................................................................................... 11
ITEM ........................................................................................................................................................... 11
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NO ............................................................................................................................................................... 11
YES ............................................................................................................................................................. 11
NO .............................................................................................................................................................. 11
Appendix D - Evacuation/Shelter Essential Items to take in a small bag .......................................... 12
Appendix E – One Tree Island Buildings ............................................................................................ 13
Appendix F – Cyclone Information..................................................................................................... 14
Australian cyclone categories and wind speeds ........................................................................................ 14
Storm Surge Definitions ............................................................................................................................. 14
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PURPOSE
The purpose of this plan is to outline a process that will:
1. Prioritise the protection of people and;
2. Minimise potential losses of property.
In the event any weather system with the potential to develop into a cyclone threatens One Tree Island
(OTI), the preferred option is to evacuate well in advance by removing visitors by boat to Heron Island
and either 1) shelter at Heron Island Research Station (HIRS) or 2) subsequently evacuating to the
mainland by ferry.
However, it must be recognised that evacuation from OTI by boat may not always be possible. Tide
height constrains passage across the fringing reef and during periods of low tides the island’s primary
vessel Linckia II is restricted from departing the lagoon into open water. Therefore evacuation by
helicopter or seaplane must be considered. This emergency plan also provides a contingency for
remaining in-situ on the island if no means of safe evacuation is possible.
INTRODUCTION
One Tree Island Research Station (OTIRS) is located about 100 km offshore from the Queensland coast
off Gladstone and about 20 km south east of Heron Island. The Research Station, operated by University
of Sydney, and has a maximum capacity of 30 people with one of two dorm style accommodations, Sea
Eagle House, being constructed to C2 standard able to withstand winds of up to 220 km/hr.
The stations research vessel Linckia II transports visitors to and from Heron Island. Linckia II is an 11 m
aluminium open-deck work boat surveyed to carry 12 passengers plus two crew members (14 pax).
Cruising speed in optimal weather conditions is 23 knots, with transit to Heron Island taking between 30 90 mins. Depending on wind and sea conditions, transit to mainland is estimated to take between 5 - 9
hrs.
The island and surrounding lagoon is totally enclosed by One Tree Reef. Transit across the reef by Linckia
II requires a minimum high tide of 2.3 m. At certain times of the year there may be periods of up to two
weeks before a suitable tide height allows access to and from the island. Tide restrictions of a week are
typical during the cyclone season.
CYCLONE SEASON
Cyclone season is generally between 1 November and 30 April but exceptions do occur.
CYCLONE THREAT MONITORING
During the cyclone season, the Australia Bureau of Meteorology relays cyclone and tropical low
development forecasts on a daily basis. When there is potential for a system to develop, forecasts are
broadcast at six hourly intervals. The forecast frequency is increased to three hourly updates following
the development of a tropical low or cyclonic system, becoming hourly when a cyclone is close to the
coast.
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The managers at One Tree Island obtain daily weather information and updates from the Bureau of
Meteorology website. In the event that the bureau issues a cyclone watch in which OTI is in the predicted
path, station shutdown procedures and/or evacuation planning shall be initiated (see Cyclone Response
below).
CYCLONE PREPAREDNESS
PRE-CYCLONE SEASON PREPARATION
Prior to the start of cyclone season, each year:
 Update and keep a list of emergency phone numbers on display in office at all times.
 Trees shall be trimmed well clear of buildings.
 All loose items around the station (which could become projectiles and cause injury or damage during
extreme winds) should be removed, stored securely and/or tied down as appropriate.
 Remove unnecessary items from storage in cyclone shelter.
 Prepare the emergency kit and place in shelter.
RESPONSIBILITIES
ONE TREE ISLAND STATION MANAGERS





The management of cyclone preparedness, response and post cyclone recovery stages.
Consulting with the LDMG and DDMG in the first instance and briefing the OTI Director of any
emergency situation.
Monitoring cyclone and sea conditions directly and on Bureau of Meteorology website.
Providing regular updates to OTI Director.
Distributing information to visitors.
Note: The decision to evacuate is at the discretion of One Tree Island Station Managers and will be
communicated to the OTI Director.
ONE TREE ISLAND DIRECTOR





Being the central point of contact for Station Managers during a cyclone event.
Contacting next of kin and affiliate organisations of persons on the island if required and keeping
them informed of status updates.
Ensuring that their responsibilities are delegated to a suitable person should they be unavailable.
Ensuring that the OTI Emergency Management Plan is regularly reviewed.
Any comments/reports on the situation to outside bodies, including the media.
Note: In the absence of any prior arrangements, the University of Sydney’s Division of Natural Science
General Manager is to assume the Directors responsibilities.
RESEARCHERS AND VISITORS



Follow the instructions of the Station Managers at all times.
Assisting in the preparation of the station, e.g. putting up cyclone shutters, tying down loose items,
pulling boats out of the water, etc.
Visitors electing to leave the island, via seaplane or helicopter, before an evacuation is ordered must
make their own transport arrangements.
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Note: Any costs involved to evacuate are the responsibility of the individual. This has been made clear
on booking application and by information included in the visitor information.
CYCLONE RESPONSE
One Tree Island will employ a staged response to a cyclone threat.
STAGE
KEY ACTION
1
Monitor
2
Evacuation
3
Remain on
Station
4
Reopen
DESCRIPTION
Tropical low with the possibility of developing into a cyclone has formed
within 800nm (1500km) and in which One Tree Island is not in its
predicted path.
Cyclone has developed within 400nm (750km) and is tracking towards
the island with potential for impact. Gale force winds are expected to
affect the island within 72hrs and evacuation is possible.
Cyclone has developed and is tracking towards the island with potential
for impact and evacuation is not possible.
Cyclone or threat of cyclone has passed - damage assessment and
recovery.
Every effort should be made to ensure that no people remain on One Tree Island if it is in the path of a
developing cyclone.
STAGE 1 - MONITOR
Tropical low with the possibility of developing into a cyclone has formed within 800nm (1500km) and in
which One Tree Island is not in its predicted path.





Station Managers are to inform OTI Director that a system has developed and provide daily
communication which will be escalated to the University of Sydney Cyclone Management Group
(Appendix A) for the duration of threat.
Monitor the development of the system on the Bureau of Meteorology website
http://www.bom.gov.au/qld/forecasts/capricornia-coast.shtml and provide a status update every
eight (8) hours to OTI Director.
Inform visitors of the threat and update visitors every four (4) hours.
Establish contact with LDMG Coordinator and the DDMG Coordinator.
Inform any researchers with impending bookings that we are unable to accommodate them until the
threat has passed. Any costs involved are the responsibility of the individual.
Note: Activities may be restricted at the Manager’s discretion.
STAGE 2 – EVACUATION
Cyclone has developed within 400nm (750km) and is tracking towards the island with potential for
impact. Gale force winds are expected to affect the island within 72hrs and evacuation is possible.


Complete the One Tree Island station shutdown procedures, following the checklist in Appendix B,
prioritising tasks according to the time and number of people available to help.
Before heavy cloud cover occurs, send a list of persons on the island to OTI Director, the Local
Disaster Management Group Coordinator and the Gladstone District Disaster Coordinator. Ensure list
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




includes each person’s name / phone number / home address / institution / next of kin, institution
affiliation and emergency contact phone number.
Send a general status update every four (4) hours to OTI Director, the LDMG and all visitors.
Inform all visitors that evacuation is imminent and to be prepared by wearing strong shoes (not
thongs) and tough clothing for protection and ready a small bag with essentials only (Appendix D).
Advise all visitors to limit their access to communications systems (e.g. internet), but allowing for
them to contact next of kin / affiliate organisations to update them on their status.
Depart OTI for Heron Island while weather, sea conditions and tide heights allow.
If evacuation to Heron Island by sea is not possible, Managers to organise evacuation to the mainland
via seaplane and/or helicopter.
Seaplane (Vance)
0412 623 554
Gladstone Helicopters
07 4978 2403
Note: All non-essential vessel operations are to be suspended, subject to manager’s discretion.
STAGE 3 – REMAIN ON STATION
Tropical low has developed to cyclone and is tracking towards the island with potential for impact and
evacuation is not possible.





Complete the One Tree Island station shutdown procedures, following the checklist in Appendix B,
prioritising tasks according to the time and number of people available to help.
Before heavy cloud cover occurs, send a list of persons on the island to OTI Director, the Local
Disaster Management Group Coordinator and the Gladstone District Disaster Coordinator. Ensure list
includes each person’s name / phone number / home address / institution / next of kin, institution
affiliation and emergency contact phone number.
Inform visitors that they are required to enter the shelter and remain there until the threat has
passed. Visitors are to be prepared by wearing strong shoes (not thongs), tough clothing for
protection and to bring a small bag with essentials only (Appendix D) as well as bedding.
Contact OTI Director just before entering the shelter and let them know that communications will be
limited. Establish a time for next communication.
Monitor cyclone warning updates. By this stage, only the battery powered AM/FM radio may be
receiving a signal.
When the cyclone strikes




Stay inside cyclone shelter (well clear of windows) in the strongest part of the shelter.
If the building starts to break up, seek protection with a mattresses, rugs or blankets and shelter
under a strong table or bench or hold onto solid fixtures.
If the wind drops, don't assume the cyclone is over; violent winds may resume from another
direction. Wait for the official 'all clear'.
Be aware, due to heavy cloud/rain there may be no satellite or phone communication.
Note: Unless managers communicate another safer alternative, the cyclone shelter is the ground level of
the Eagle View (New Accommodation Building, see Appendix E for location) which is C2 rated and
represents the most elevated part of the station. If very large storm surge is forecasted, occupants will
shelter in the upper level of the same building.
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STAGE 4 – REOPEN
Cyclone or threat of cyclone has passed - damage assessment and recovery.






Only return to the island or exit shelter once threat has passed and all clear is given.
Contact OTI Director within one hour of designated time to situation report.
Managers to return to the island, or exit the shelter, to assess the station for a damage and dangers
such as spills/leaks, unstable buildings or rubble, exposed power sources etc. before visitors are
permitted to return. Inspection to occur only if considered safe to do so.
Electrical equipment found to be wet must not be touched and an electrician must be engaged
before turning on the power.
Where possible and safe to do so photos of any damage should be taken.
Managers to assess the suitability and safety of the station prior to permitting visitors to resume
work.
Note: Staff and visitors must be mindful that communication systems may be impacted by the storm or
cyclone due to wind damage or water inundation.
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APPENDIX A – UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT GROUP
TITLE
NAME
OFFICE NUMBER
MOBILE NUMBER
EMAIL
Ana Vila Concejo
02 9351 5190
0432 077 760
[email protected]
Will Figueira
02 9351 2039
0403 235 992
[email protected]
Deputy Director,
One Tree island Research Station
Maria Byrne
02 9351 5167
0452 176 609
[email protected]
Dean of Research
Mike Thompson
02 9351 3989
General Manager Division of Natural
Sciences
Jas Chambers
02 9351 2203
Manager, Faculty Workshops and Safety
Leigh Grant
Adviser,
Work Health & Safety
Steven Marker
02 8627 8541
Head of School,
School of Geosciences
Phil McManus
02 9351 2912
[email protected]
Head of School,
School of Biological Science
Clare McArthur
02 9351 2062
[email protected]
Senior Technical Officer,
School of Geoscience
Tom Savage
02 9351 3390
0409 469 028
[email protected]
Chair of Geosciences WHS committee
Geoff Clarke
02 9351 2919
0418 297 566
[email protected]
Director,
One Tree island Research Station
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[email protected]
0411 207336
[email protected]
0421 986 274
[email protected]
0422 488 160
[email protected]
APPENDIX B - STATION CYCLONE SHUTDOWN CHECKLIST
TASK AND BUILDINGS
Close all windows and doors including those in workshop, fuel shed, battery room, wet lab,
securely.
Attach cyclone shutters to all windows.
All loose objects around station and wet lab to be moved inside and/or secured. (Remember
to check any loose items on shelves in wet lab).
All garbage bins to be moved inside or weighted.
Bins and tubs to be filled with water or weighted.
Secure gas cylinders, oil and fuel drums.
Store external fire extinguishers inside buildings.
Computers unplugged and put away. Paper work filed. Merchandise stored.
Linckia II and Orcinus on cyclone mooring and anchored at minimum of two points both fore
and aft. Bilge pumped out, batteries charged and turned OFF.
Linckia II windows closed and Orcinus side windows in place to protect console.
Punts and Orca boats upside-down on beach above high water level and anchors secured
around building posts.
Seabreeze roof OFF, upside-down and secured with weights.
All outboards in fuel shed on wall mount. Fuel and chemicals removed from shelving, under
cover and properly secured.
Boat trolley overturned and placed upside-down in wet lab.
Fill diesel and petrol generator with fuel and oil. Do start-up checks and test.
Ensure all unnecessary power is OFF.
Inverter is set to all ON.
Power to phone is left ON
Ensure all pipe caps are OFF.
Turn gas bottles OFF.
Turn power to gas systems OFF.
Turn OFF appliances and remove plugs from wall sockets.
Cover computers/appliances in plastic where possible.
Hand held radios and radio base-station unplugged.
Send list of persons on OTI, including affiliation and next of kin to OTI Director, Local Local
Disaster Management Group (LDMG) Coordinator and District Disaster Management Group
(DDMG) Coordinator.
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YES/
INITIALS
APPENDIX C - CYCLONE KIT CONTENTS
ITEM
NO
First Aid kit (General and Flying Doctor) and first aid manual
1
Canned and dried food, can opener
#
Water; 2L per person p/day (at least three days’ worth)
5
Hand-held radio, batteries
2
AM/FM radio, spare batteries
1
Torches, spare batteries
5
Water-proof bag
2
Camp cooker, gas and matches
1
Cooking utensils
#
Ground cover / tarp
1
Toilet bucket
1
Bin liners
50
Satellite Phone (Charged)
1
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YES
NO
APPENDIX D - EVACUATION/SHELTER ESSENTIAL ITEMS TO TAKE IN A SMALL BAG
Medication
Copy of the OTI Emergency Management Plan
Visual Aids
1x Change of clothing – longs if possible
Toiletries - essential
Water Bottle – full
Travel Documents
Next of Kin Contacts
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APPENDIX E – ONE TREE ISLAND BUILDINGS
BUILDING
Eagle View
(New
accommodation
building)
Lagoon View
Biology Lab
Dry Lab
Wet Lab
Fuel Store
Cottage
Toilet
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WIND
RATING
EQUIVALENT
WIND SPEED
CYCLONE
CATEGORY
YEAR OF
CONSTRUCTION
C2
220 km/h
3
2003
ESTIMATE HEIGHT
OF FLOOR ABOVE
MAXIMUM TIDE
APPENDIX F – CYCLONE INFORMATION
AUSTRALIAN CYCLONE CATEGORIES AND WIND SPEEDS
Cyclones are categorised according to their strength. There are 5 categories: Category 1 is the weakest and
Category 5 is the strongest.
Category
Wind Gusts
Ocean Swells
Damage
1
Up to 125km/hr
Gales
1.2 – 1.6m
Slight damage
Trees and farmland damaged.
2
126 – 169km/hr
Destructive
1.7 – 2.5m
Significant Damage
Minor house damage. Severe damage to
signs and trees. Heavy damage to crops
3
170 – 224km/hr
Very Destructive
2.6 – 3.7m
Structural damage
House roofs and most likely power
failures
4
225 – 279km/hr
Very Destructive
3.8 – 5.4m
Significant roofing and structural damage
Airborne debris, widespread power
failure
5
Winds above 280km/hr
Very Destructive
Almost total destruction and extremely
More than 5.5m dangerous
Houses flattened, cars over turned
STORM SURGE DEFINITIONS
Storm surge is a large mound of water that accompanies a tropical cyclone as it comes ashore. The intense
winds of the cyclone pile up the ocean into a dome of water that is pushed onshore as the cyclone strikes
the coast. The low pressure of the cyclone adds to the height of the mound of water, though this is a
secondary effect. When the height of a storm surge is discussed it does not take into account the height of
the large waves on top of the mound of water.
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