Garry Youngberry

BOOK OF WEATHER
3
Bruce Long
APRIL 5. 2009
Garry Youngberry
THE weather plays a major role in all of life —
from providing the supporting climate in which we
exist, the conditions to grow the food we eat, the
nutrient cycles for plants, trees and corals and
shaping the landscapes around us.
Not only does the weather have an influence on
the way we dress and feel, but also can have an
effect on our health and well being.
And it can be fickle. One day, it can be the
enjoyment of a beautiful sunset, the next it’s the
heartbreak of a wild storm that destroys everything
you own.
This is why ‘‘weather" is one of the most talked
about and studied topics on our planet — from the
most advanced scientific laboratories to across
backyard fences.
My fascination with the weather comes from
the love of the outdoors and the influence it has on
those activities which are an essential part of the
lives of many Queenslanders.
Since moving to Queensland earlier this year, I
have been intrigued by the different and interesting weather here; from drought, to cyclonic winds,
severe thunderstorms and flooding rain.
I’ve seen half the state parched while much of
the rest was in flood, with some towns recording
their annual rainfall in the first eight weeks of the
year.
I’ve also seen violent thunderstorms, the widespread effects of Cyclone Hamish and enjoyed
some glorious late summer and early autumn days.
This is why I will love living here.
And it’s not just for the variety of weather, but
also the chance to educate those who want to
know more about it.
By having a better understanding of how the
weather works and why, Queenslanders can get
more out of their lives, each and every day.
And the more we appreciate the weather, the
better equipped we are to minimise the impact we
Sharren Hardinge
Understanding and appreciating the weather is a way to
better comprehend our planet and improve our lives.
Enjoy The Sunday Mail -Channel 9 Book of Weather
Weather can be as cruel as it’s kind. It can be a
devastating storm, like the one at The Gap in
Brisbane last year that destroyed homes,
including that of Graham and Lynette Bigby
(top). Or, it can be a beautiful sunset that
closes a day of fishing on Moreton Bay (above)
Cover photo: Aaron Kelly
have on this marvellous planet and preserve it for
future generations.
Hopefully this booklet will help provide a better understanding of the basics of weather in our
great state.
Cheers
Garry Youngberry