General News
8 August, 2025
Tree-mendous
A BRINSMEAD couple whose home was severely damaged by a massive tree collapse in January have finally reached a resolution with their insurer, ending six months of financial strain, unanswered questions and emotional stress.
Amelia Godfrey and her partner Xavier Conner were preparing to relocate to Darwin when, at 6.50am on January 29, a tree at the back of their property gave way at the roots and crashed into their house.
Branches punched holes through multiple sections of roof, with the southeastern side hit hardest. Ceilings in the master bedroom, ensuite, walk-in wardrobe, and dining area were soaked. Guttering was ripped away, a wind turbine was torn off and water penetrated internal walls and the downstairs granny flat.
“We were just about to sign a rental agreement. The house was listed at $930 a week,” Ms Godfrey said. “But we couldn’t lease it out with holes in the roof and water pouring in.”
The couple lodged a claim with Sure Insurance the same day, but progress stalled. Emails show the first scope of works wasn’t issued until March 31 and a second quote didn’t arrive until mid-June.
Key questions about water damage in the granny flat also remained unanswered.
Adding to the uncertainty, Sure Insurance issued a letter on July 4 advising the couple that their home-and-contents policy would not be renewed due to multiple claims in recent years. That decision was later reversed and the insurer confirmed the policy would remain active beyond the July 24 expiry.
As the situation dragged on and became what Ms Godfrey described as “unbearable” for both her and her partner, the couple said they felt increasingly powerless. A formal complaint was lodged with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), but the couple were told a resolution could still be weeks away. AFCA had advised it may take up to seven weeks to assign a case manager.
In a last-ditch effort for help, Ms Godfrey reached out to Cairns Local News for assistance. Shortly after media inquiries were made, the couple were advised that all works included in the original scope would proceed in full. Sure Insurance also agreed to appoint the builder who had prepared the initial scope of works to complete the repairs.
Ms Godfrey and Mr Conner estimate the cost of repairs to be just under $200,000, not including tree removal, which they say cost tens of thousands. Combined, the total impact is believed to exceed $200,000.
The couple say they are relieved to finally see progress after months of financial and emotional strain. “It’s a huge weight off our shoulders to know the policy is staying active and the repairs are being done,” Ms Godfrey said.
The couple has asked that the story not be pursued further but confirmed they were grateful to see a resolution reached after a long and stressful ordeal.
Sure Insurance was contacted for comment on July 7. A spokesperson confirmed the policy renewal would proceed and that the full scope of works would be completed. No further comment was offered.
