BOM get a LOT of flack for "getting it wrong", but honestly, give people a bit of a scare and they'll be more prepared.

Just like Yasi though, what Marcia was is really debatable. A lot of the "experts" in the area are saying it was only Cat 1 when it hit, judging by the damage and recorded wind gusts.

Regardless, they're not pleasant things to go through.
(Unless it's like Cyclone Tash from a few Christmases ago that most people slept through)