Short Presentation (6 minutes) Australian Marine Sciences Association 2025 Conference

Understanding the impacts of Cyclone Jasper on coastal marine habitats in Far North Queensland (120035)

Abbi Scott 1 , Skye A McKenna 1 , Adam Canning 1 , Norm Duke 1 , Johnny Gaskell 2 , Christina Howley 3 , Lucas Langlois 1 , Len Mckenzie 1 , Katie Chartrand 1
  1. Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878
  2. Independent consultant, Cairns
  3. Cape York Water Partnership, Cooktown, QLD

Tropical Cyclone Jasper crossed the coast north of Port Douglas in mid-December 2023. It was the wettest tropical cyclone in Australian history, breaking many rainfall records and causing significant flooding, sediment runoff and historic damage in the region. To assess the cyclone’s impact on the estuarine and marine coastal environment, we collaborated with Traditional Owners from the Cairns to Cooktown region to survey mangrove, coral and seagrass habitats. Post-cyclone surveys, conducted by helicopter and boat, documented extensive damage to mangroves and inshore coral reefs due to flooding and high sediment levels. A key challenge was the lack of baseline data on habitat conditions prior to the unprecedented weather event. To address this, we compiled available data and satellite imagery to reconstruct pre-impact conditions. This talk will present survey results and including opportunistic pre-disturbance drone footage of targeted inshore reef areas which shows a dramatic loss of some inshore coral communities post-cyclone. This project demonstrates a holistic approach to surveying coastal ecosystems on a regional scale, working closely with TO communities to assess effects on their sea Country. The results can inform stewardship actions, help to understand recovery and address strategic data gaps through these post-disturbance assessments for better ecosystem management.