Lions Den Hotel Survives Cyclone, Community Celebrates

0:00The lions then hotel in far North Queensland dodged disaster from tropical cyclone the rail this week, emerging without a scratch after bracing for the worst. Just two years ago, in December 2023, the historic 151-year-old pub was swamped by floodwaters from ex-tropical. Cyclone Jasper, forcing more than a dozen people onto the roof for a dramatic helicopter rescue. Staff at the pub shut down early as the cyclone neared on Thursday night, with public and Judy Fry and her team hunkering down safely an hour away. They woke up to good news, finding the place and much of southern Cape York spared from heavy damage. Locals breed the huge sigh of relief, flooding back into their favorite spot as doors reopened and drinks started flowing again. The close call brought back vivid memories of the past flood, but the community's tight-knit spirit shown through. Recovery from the earlier disaster continues, with some mud still being scrubbed out and flood markers as permitting reminders.

1:00The pub's famous collection of visitor left behind mostly survived, drawing smiles amid the cleanup. Cooktown and nearby spots now eye a busy tourist season ahead, despite hiccups like a damaged dainty ferry and flood prone river crossings. With wild weather easing, visitors are set to return to this adventurous corner of Australia. From your city, powered by AI, this is Adelaide News Today.