The Latest Breaking News from Norfolk Island

Residents in Australia's Norfolk Island and in New Zealand braced for heavy rain and gales over the weekend from Cyclone Gabrielle, with authorities also warning of hazardous surf conditions and strong winds along Australia's east coast.

Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle has intensified to a category three system as it heads to Norfolk Island but is expected to remain well away from the mainland.

Cyclone Gabrielle is expected to strengthen into a category three system, packing destructive winds as it barrels towards Norfolk Island.

Almost 2200 people living on Norfolk Island could have self-rule returned more than seven years after the federal government took over the remote island.

Cyclone Gabrielle is expected to reach category three, with large swells and dangerous winds as the system barrels toward Norfolk Island and New Zealand.

Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle, "will remain well offshore" but is expected to produce "dangerous coastal conditions" along the southern and central Queensland coast over coming days.

With no elected council or state member of parliament, and a federal MP 1,000 kilometres away, residents on this island say they are facing a democratic deficit.

Descendants of HMS Bounty mutineers received the seal when handed the former prison colony

The Australian island’s unusual status allows it to compete and, say its sizeable team of lawn bowlers, helps put it on the map