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Smashing avocados and Lego: Townsville Cyclone Testing Station puts household objects to the test

Cyclone tester David Henderson says backyard objects can fly through glass windows in cyclonic winds. - ABC

Researchers at a Cyclone Testing Station in north Queensland have been busy creating smashed avocado, and it is not the type that goes on toast.

Household items such as coconuts, avocados, Lego and garden gnomes have been hurled at doors and windows at speeds of up to 280km/hr at James Cook University (JCU) in Townsville, north Queensland.



The unique tests have been carried out using a wind-driven debris simulator, and they are being conducted in partnership with Suncorp Insurance who want help educate people about the risks everyday objects can pose during cyclones.

JCU Cyclone Testing Station director David Henderson said the simulator at the centre was normally used to test building products.

"This is the first time we have some unsuspecting garden gnomes to sacrifice for the greater good," Dr Henderson said.

Dr Henderson said the sheer velocity behind the items had been enough to leave dints on doors and puncture glass.

"It is fun, but there is a real serious message about the importance of cleaning up our backyards and making sure our houses are well maintained, and it's not just protecting our house but our neighbours as well," he said.



Suncorp Insurance public policy manager, Joshua Cooney said the tests stressed the importance of early cyclone preparation.

"The latest advice from the BOM is that we could be heading for a big one this year, and north Queenslanders need to be ready once again," Mr Cooney said.



Suncorp has carried out tests using larger objects at the centre in the past, but this is the first time they have tested items such as fruit, pot plants, thongs and Lego.

"We've done a lot of work with the Cyclone Testing Station here, particularly in relation to Cyclone Yasi," Mr Cooney said.

"Across the industry it was a $1.4-billion-dollar event and it caused all manner of other costs that were incurred by the government and communities, so the importance of preparedness is paramount.

"Nine out of 10 of Suncorp's claims involved small claims and largely preventable claims."

After having witnessed the damage small items such as toys and fruit could cause when left out in the open during cyclonic winds, Mr Cooney said it was important that people made sure their homes and property were cyclone ready this season.


- ABC

© ABC 2016

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