The Gascoyne Development Commission continues to support coordinated recovery efforts following Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle, working across government, industry and community to help restore economic activity and community confidence across the region.
Consistent with its role, GDC is focused on facilitating practical outcomes – connecting people to support, identifying gaps, and ensuring the Gascoyne’s communities and businesses are positioned to recover and move forward.
Connecting Business to Support
GDC is supporting a FREE service to impacted organisations and individuals through the activation of The Business Social’s recovery support service, designed to help businesses and residents navigate the range of assistance available.
Originally developed following Cyclone Seroja, the service has been adapted to meet the specific needs of the Gascoyne following Narelle. At its centre is a simple online portal that provides a clear entry point to all forms of recovery support.
Through the portal, users can:
- Complete a straightforward eligibility check to identify relevant grants, financial assistance and support programs
- Connect directly with The Business Social team through booked one-on-one sessions
- Receive practical guidance through application processes, including additional support where technical capability or language may present barriers
The service is fully funded by GDC, ensuring it is free, accessible and focused on delivering timely, practical assistance.
In parallel, GDC has engaged regional stakeholders with strong on-the-ground capability, including the Gascoyne Pilbara Rangelands Initiative and the Shire of Carnarvon, to support broader community engagement and help extend the reach and effectiveness of recovery efforts.
Building a Clear Picture of Recovery Needs
The recovery service provides an important reporting function, giving GDC real-time visibility of emerging issues, support gaps and economic impacts across the region.
This insight supports more targeted advocacy and enables GDC to work with government and delivery agencies to improve the effectiveness of recovery measures.
At the same time, the Commission is undertaking detailed economic analysis to develop a comprehensive understanding of Cyclone Narelle’s impacts. This work will inform ongoing recovery priorities and strengthen preparedness for future events.
Letting Customers Know We're Open and Ready
Restoring confidence is critical to recovery, particularly for local businesses affected by disruption to trade, visitation and cash flow.
GDC is working with local governments and partners to promote a clear and consistent message:
- The Gascoyne region remains open and welcoming
- Fuel supplies are stable, with travellers encouraged to plan ahead
- Some areas, particularly Exmouth, have experienced impacts, but remain accessible
- Visitors are encouraged to return, supporting local businesses and communities
This coordinated approach supports both immediate recovery and the longer-term resilience of the regional economy.
GDC continues to play an active role in recovery coordination, contributing to key state and regional forums and working groups focused on infrastructure, supply chains, and community recovery.