Ian, there may have been a NOTAM issued at the time saying the aerodrome was unserviceable. As you'd understand, if there was a cyclone (I'm guessing it was Larry?) in the area, there may been numerous amounts of debris over the airport, therefore it would effectively be a NOTAM that is 'closing' the aerodrome.
I stand to be corrected, however I am pretty sure that ATC cannot close an aerodrome, just like they cannot stop someone from landing after curfew in places like Sydney. All they can do is advise you that it would not be suitable etc.
I have seen NOTAM's being issued for aerodromes during cyclones, for the reason I stated above.
Cheers
Mick
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