The prime minister has joined survivors from Darwin and around the country to mark five decades since Cyclone Tracy, one of the worst natural disasters in Australian history.

In the early hours of Christmas Day, 1974, Darwin was changed forever. 50 years ago Cyclone Tracy claimed the lives of 66 people, destroying most of the town. 19 year old sailor Sue Bigham was there that day - and in the weeks following.

Cyclone Tracy tore a path of destruction through Darwin that would take years to repair. Gusts reached 217km/h before measuring instruments failed, and 66 people were killed as buildings blew apart all over the city. "And we could feel the pressure, even indoors – the pressure was pushing at the house."

Political leaders have paid tribute to the victims and survivors of the devastating Christmas Eve cyclone that devastated Darwin and claimed 66 lives.

In the early hours of Christmas Day 1974, a tropical cyclone swept through Darwin... leaving an indelible mark on the city and its people. Severe Tropical Cyclone Tracy is regarded as one of the most significant cyclones in Australia's history.

Survivors of “the destructive force of nature at its very worst” have gathered with politicians to mark 50 years since the Australian tragedy.