BoM path track map predicts TC Alfred will cross coast on Saturday near Brisbane, the first storm of its size to do so in decades. Follow the latest updates today

• Why did Tropical Cyclone Alfred slow down on its path towards the east coast?
• What is melioidosis and why do cases spike after flooding and heavy rainfall?
• Brisbane flood map: suburbs at risk during Cyclone Alfred

Welfare recipients told to perform mutual obligations as cyclone bears down

We have a news story this morning about the impact the cyclone is already having on life in Queensland.

Fallen trees and giant stands of bamboo blocked the single road to our farm until the army and council brought heavy machinery to clear a path some time after.

We were without running water or power for days, maybe weeks, the packing shed a makeshift kitchen where we ate meals cooked off a gas barbecue and drank instant coffee made with rainwater and UHT milk to the hum of a generator.

BoM path track map predicts TC Alfred will cross coast on Friday near Brisbane, the first storm of its size to do so in decades. Follow the latest updates today

• Why did Tropical Cyclone Alfred slow down on its path towards the east coast?
• What is melioidosis and why do cases spike after flooding and heavy rainfall?
• Brisbane flood map: suburbs at risk during Cyclone Alfred

Speaking of preparations, adjunct senior lecturer at the Centre for Disaster Studies at James Cook University Yetta Gurtner gives advice here:

Chalmers confident insurance companies ‘know their responsibilities’

I’m confident they know their responsibilities and obligations to people.