Queensland Courts is actively monitoring Cyclone Narelle, which is approaching the coast between Lockhart River and Cooktown and expected to make landfall tomorrow, 20 March.
Practice Direction 3 of 2026 (Temporary closure of Weipa and Cooktown registries) was issued by the Chief Magistrate today. Weipa and Cooktown Magistrates Court Registries will be closed tomorrow (Friday), due to expected impacts from Cyclone Narelle.
The Courts will assess any impacts for the following week as there is potential for flooding in Cooktown, Weipa, Mossman, Normanton, Mount Isa, Cloncurry and Cairns.
Clearwater Law Principal Louise Prychidczuk, who is based in Weipa, said residents were prepped for whatever the cyclone might bring.
“Our only real concern will be power outage which could impact work flow and a couple of matters,” she said.
“If it continues its course, we anticipate some property damage but unfortunately that comes with the territory and is just inconvenient if everyone is unharmed.
“The roads are cut north and south. Planes are now cancelled.
“Unfortunately the impact up here is where they are least equipped to rebuild so it will be long lasting effects.
“We will be fine – we are concerned but not alarmed.”
Updated information about disruptions to court operations will be published on the Queensland Courts website as the safety of court users is a high priority.
Communication will also be sent directly to affected parties.
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