Australia Zoo offers refuge for wildlife as Cyclone Alfred prompts cancellation of Green Day’s Gold Coast concert

The impending arrival of Tropical Cyclone Alfred in South East Queensland and its likely impact of native wildlife, has prompted Australia Zoo to offer its support as an animal refuge.

Anticipating the arrival of Cyclone Alfred, the Sunshine Coast hinterland attraction advised “as Cyclone Alfred approaches, Australia Zoo is actively liaising with the local authorities and taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of our animals, staff and visitors, which is our top priority.

“Our team is working around the clock to ensure that our beautiful animals remain comfortable and safe, spoiling them with lots of love and comfort food.”

The Irwin family owned sanctuary went on to sate “our dedicated team has implemented all precautionary measures to ensure the wellbeing of our animals, who will safely be tucked into their homes should the cyclone impact us significantly.

“The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital continues to operate 24 hours a day, and will be prepared to treat native wildlife impacted by the cyclone in the coming days. Severe weather events can destroy wildlife habitats, forcing animals to seek shelter elsewhere and leave them vulnerable to injury. By driving carefully and reporting injured animals to local rescue units, we can help protect them during this time.”

Meanwhile, American rock act Green Day were forced to cancel the last date of their current Australian tour, due to have taken place last night at Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast.

The band took to Instagram on Tuesday afternoon to advise "Hey Australia, unfortunately due to circumstances out of our control, tomorrow's Gold Coast show has been cancelled.

"With Cyclone Alfred bringing some seriously nasty weather, it's just not possible to go ahead safely. We know this is a huge disappointment, and we're just as bummed as you are. Stay safe out there!"

A statement from the venue added "Cbus Super Stadium has been advised that the Green Day Saviors concert has been cancelled, due to the extreme weather conditions forecast.

"We know how excited fans were for the concert and we share your disappointment. Concert organisers explored every opportunity to go ahead with the event, but the safety and travel certainty of concert goers, performers and staff cannot be ensured under current conditions."

Earlier this week a representative for promoters Live Nation told the ABC that communications around the ultimate decision about the concert would be led by the venue.

Live Nation, the tour's promoters, advised that patrons will receive refunds automatically, explaining “no action is required. Your refund will be processed to the original method of payment used at time of purchase. It should appear on your account within 14-21 days. If the tickets were transferred to you, the refund will go to the fan who originally purchased the tickets from Ticketmaster."

Image credit: Australia Zoo.