Residents in WA's north continue repairs after cyclone season

Communities along Western Australia's far north coast are continuing the arduous process of recovery six months after experiencing what has been described as the most intense cyclone season in recent memory. The 2025-26 wet season brought an equal-highest number of tropical cyclones to make landfall in the Kimberley region, with three direct hits.

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Most intense

The Dampier Peninsula, a remote stretch of coastline, bore the brunt of this activity, being struck by two powerful cyclones, Hayley and Luana, within a mere three-week span. Cyclone Hayley made landfall as a Category 3 storm in December, followed closely by Category 2 Cyclone Luana. The ferocity of these storms left a trail of destruction, with broken branches, downed trees, and significant damage to infrastructure and accommodation.

James Brown, managing director of Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, described the season as the most intense he has witnessed. While the farm's core infrastructure remained intact, the accommodation facilities suffered major damage, requiring weeks to access and repair. Brown estimates the total cost of repairs, after insurance, could climb towards $1 million, placing a substantial financial burden on the business.

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It just did so much destruction … there were broken branches and trees down everywhere

Despite the severity of the season, Brown expressed surprise that the Western Australian government did not offer additional financial assistance to tourism operators on the peninsula, beyond existing support payments like grants of up to $20,000 for businesses impacted by a different cyclone, Narelle. Neighbouring communities also faced extensive damage, with roofs torn off and powerlines downed, underscoring the widespread impact and the ongoing need for support.

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I know there was a lot of damage to other tourism operators. I'm sure everybody would have really appreciated a bit of help just to get back up and running.