The Northern Territory Legislative Assembly has today commemorated the 50th anniversary of Cyclone Tracy.
Cyclone Tracy struck Darwin on Christmas Day in 1974, becoming one of Australia’s most devastating natural disasters.
Wind gusts were recorded at over 217km/h per hour before the instruments failed.
There was torrential rain, and storm surges, and it tore through Darwin, leaving our city unrecognisable.
Tragically, 66 lives were lost and more than 70% of Darwin’s buildings destroyed, leaving the city in ruins and displacing tens of thousands of residents.
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro told Parliament Cyclone Tracy was a defining moment in the history of the Northern Territory.
“This is a story of devastation, survival and heartbreak – but most importantly, resilience,” she said.
“While we acknowledge the profound impact of that day, we also reflect on the determination of the people of Darwin, and the incredible efforts that transformed devastation into renewal.
“It is a time to honour both what was lost and what was rebuilt.”
The Darwin Reconstruction Commission, established in early 1975, undertook an enormous challenge.
With a mandate to rebuild the city within five years, they accomplished it in just over three.
“Cyclone Tracy taught us many lessons, and its legacy continues to shape our lives today,” said Mrs Finocchiaro.
“The building codes introduced after 1974 have become a national standard, ensuring homes and businesses across Australia are better prepared to withstand natural disasters.
“While we remember the devastation of Tracy, we also celebrate how far we have come. Darwin is no longer defined by Cyclone Tracy – it is defined by its people, its spirit, and its vision for the future.
“We honour those we lost, pay tribute to those who rebuilt, and celebrate the spirit of a city that refused to be defeated.
“Fifty years ago, Cyclone Tracy tested us in ways we could never have imagined. And we proved that together, we are stronger than any cyclone or disaster.”
To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Cyclone Tracy, a series of events will be held to honour those who lost their lives, and to recognise the resilience and achievements of Darwin’s community in the wake of this tragic event.
