One of the most significant meteorological events in Australian history, the 'Pasha Bulker Storm' was an east coast low (ECL) which affected the east coast of Australia between Illawarra and the Hunter in June 2007. The storm caused widespread flooding, the grounding of a 40 000 tonne bulk carrier, and it damaged critical infrastructure and disrupted coal exports. Nine people lost their lives. 

Of concern, the storm and resulting flood came as a surprise to most in the community, and there were gaps in disaster preparedness. Significant lessons were learned from this event with regard to understanding coastal hazards and disaster risk management.