Post storm clean up underway in South East Queensland as flooding impacts Northern NSW

The impact of ex Tropical Cyclone Alfred is being felt across South East Queensland and Northern NSW with leisure industry operators closed as the area is impacted by heavy rains, flooding and power outages.

Downgraded prior to reaching mainland Queensland between Brisbane and Maroochydore at around 9pm local time on Saturday night, residents across the storm impacted areas were yesterday advised to remain indoors and monitor conditions with the ex-Tropical Cyclone.

The result of the severe weather has seen extensive damage - including to a mini-golf facility - and massive coastal erosion, with the image of a lifeguard tower undermined by the surrounding sand being removed.

Hazardous surf conditions are still impacting the coast and, as of today, advising of multiple flood warnings, the City of Gold Coast told people to “not drive or walk into floodwater” and to “not play in the floodwater or stormwater channels.”

It also noted that its three evacuation centres - at the Runaway Bay Indoor Stadium, Sports Drive, Burleigh Waters Community Centre and the Pimpama Sports Hub - remain open for those most affected by conditions.

Facilities remain closed, including all of the Gold Coast’s theme parks, although the Sea World Resort has remained open.

On the Sunshine Coast, the Council have indicated that beach clean-up efforts are being planned.

However, Rosanna Natoli, Chair of the Sunshine Coast Council Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG), commented “we understand there are so many volunteers and community groups who want to do their part to help with the cleanup, including our beautiful beaches.

“We ask that you wait until it is safe to do so, and so we can all work together to effectively protect wildlife and natural areas from litter pollution.

“Conditions will continue to be dangerous along the coastline in waterways for several days with potential for flooding.

“Our top priority is safety, and as Ex TC Alfred passes we urge the community to stay safe at home or at your place of refuge.”

Similar to Clean Up Australia Day, the Sunshine Coast Council will work to support volunteer groups involved in the cleanup, ensuring a coordinated and efficient cleanup operation.

Images show the impact of ex Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Credit: City of Gold Coast.