A Brisbane driver found himself trapped in a bizarre parking predicament ahead of Cyclone Alfred after returning to find his car completely surrounded by hundreds of e-scooters. In an effort to protect the scooters from the incoming storm, companies had densely packed them in an alleyway, inadvertently blocking the driver’s vehicle.
Trapped in an E-Scooter Maze
As Brisbane braced for the arrival of Cyclone Alfred, preparations took an unexpected turn when one driver discovered his car wholly wedged in Lime and Neuron e-scooters in an alleyway. Viral footage captured the driver painstakingly moving each scooter to create a path of escape.
The mass relocation of e-scooters was part of an emergency effort to shelter them from the impending extreme weather. However, this led to an unforeseen consequence for one unfortunate motorist, whose vehicle became trapped amid rows of tightly packed scooters. After a laborious effort and assistance from a Neuron staff member, the driver eventually freed his car.
Why Were the Scooters Moved?
Both Lime and Neuron confirmed they had temporarily suspended their Brisbane services and removed thousands of e-scooters from the streets to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles during the cyclone. Neuron relocated 2,500 scooters to various storage locations, while Lime took similar precautions.
According to Neuron, the overflow storage site was a car park space rented from a management company, which had ordered all vehicles to be removed. With only one car left behind, staff assumed it was abandoned—until the driver returned to the chaotic scene.
Public Reactions and Concerns
Footage of the incident quickly gained traction online, with many social media users applauding the driver’s patience and determination. The viral post humorously likened the situation to a video game challenge, comparing the driver’s struggle to “playing real-life Frogger.”
While the relocation of scooters was intended to enhance public safety, some residents raised concerns that, if not properly secured, the e-scooters could still become hazardous debris in the event of severe winds.
Looking Ahead
With the worst of Cyclone Alfred now past, Brisbane is in recovery mode. While transport services are gradually resuming, authorities urge patience as cleanup efforts continue. Residents are reminded to monitor official updates for further disruptions and safety warnings.
Latest Updates on Cyclone Alfred’s Impact
Updated: 10 March 2025, 04:02 p.m.
Major Flood Warnings Still in Place
Queensland authorities have issued flood warnings for major waterways, including the Bremer River, Logan and Albert Rivers, and Lockyer Creek. Residents in flood-prone areas are urged to remain cautious.
Record-Breaking Rainfall and Flooding
Brisbane recorded its highest daily rainfall ever, with 275mm falling in just 24 hours. Other affected areas included Carole Park (331mm), Karalee (296mm), and Mt Gravatt (272mm). Flash flooding submerged roads, cut off suburbs, and left vehicles stranded.
Supermarket Shortages and Panic Buying
Most Coles and Woolworths stores in Brisbane have reopened, but essentials such as bottled water, long-life milk, and meat remain in short supply. More than 300 truckloads of stock have been dispatched to restock shelves.
Widespread Power and Internet Outages
Over 192,000 homes in Queensland and northern NSW remain without internet due to power failures. The NBN has deployed Wi-Fi satellite kits to affected towns, with major outages still reported in southeast Queensland.
BCC Service Disruptions
Several council services and public facilities remain impacted due to Cyclone Alfred.
- Business & Government Facilities: The Brisbane Business Hub, City Hall, and community halls remain closed. City Hall tours, Museum of Brisbane exhibitions, and scheduled performances have been postponed indefinitely.
- Libraries: Some libraries, including Ashgrove, Brisbane Square, Carindale, Chermside, Garden City, Indooroopilly, Sunnybank Hills, and West End, are open. Others, such as Annerley, Carina, Kenmore, Toowong, and Wynnum, remain closed. Operating hours may vary.
- Transport: CityCat and KittyCat ferry services are still suspended, and most bus routes are not operational. Footpaths on the Story Bridge are also closed for safety reasons.
- Waste & Recovery Services: Routine bin collection has resumed, but repair services are on hold. Resource recovery centres at Chandler and Ferny Grove are open, while Nudgee and Willawong centres remain closed.
- Parks & Recreation: All mountain bike tracks at Mt Coot-tha and Gap Creek remain shut. Water play areas in playgrounds have been disabled, and most public pools remain closed, except for a few such as Carole Park Pool and select indoor facilities.
- Emergency & Community Support: Immunisation clinics, Brisbane Greeter tours, and active and healthy classes are suspended until at least March 11. Outdoor community cinema events and Riverstage events are under review pending weather conditions.
Contact Information for Further Updates
For official updates and emergency information, residents are advised to use the following resources:
- BCC: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or contact 07 3403 8888
- Queensland Traffic Updates: www.QLDtraffic.qld.gov.au or contact 13 19 40
- Public Transport Updates: www.translink.com.au or contact 13 12 30
- Bureau of Meteorology (Weather & Flood Warnings): www.bom.gov.au
- SES Queensland (Flood & Storm Emergency Help): Contact 132 500
- Energex (Power Outages & Restoration Updates): Contact 13 62 62
Published 10-Mar-2025
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