Port Hedland receives $40,000 grant to help prepare for cyclones

Storm tide markers will be installed around Hedland as part of the Hedland Ready project, which aims to boost the Town’s preparedness and response capabilities to cyclonic weather. It comes after the Town of Port Hedland received $40,000 as part of the Federal National Disaster Risk Reduction Grant program. The funding will be used on storm tide markers at six locations — including Pretty Pool and Cooke Point — as well as tidal surge impact maps and a public awareness campaign. Mayor Peter Carter said the funding helped strengthen the Town’s preparedness. “In 2019, tropical cyclone Veronica reminded us of our susceptibility to the impacts of tropical cyclones, particularly storm surges and coastal erosion. We expect these impacts to intensify into the future, therefore it’s vital we implement practical solutions in our community to keep local residents safe,” he said. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, cyclone Veronica cost the country nearly $2 billion in damages and lost income.