Clean-up begins as ex-Cyclone Koji tracks west

Flood-hit communities across north and central Queensland have begun the clean-up as ex-Cyclone Koji weakens and moves west, while already-sodden inland areas are urged to remain on high alert.

The central Queensland town of Clermont remains cut off by floodwaters after swift-water rescue crews saved three people overnight. Two men were rescued from the roof of a truck on the Gregory Highway about 2.40am, while another person was pulled to safety from a vehicle roof a few hours later. Two more people managed to reach safety on their own after being stranded earlier in the evening.

Sandy Creek at the Clermont Bridge peaked at just over 11 metres on Monday afternoon before beginning to recede overnight. While an emergency flood warning was lifted late Tuesday morning, surrounding roads remain inundated, limiting access in and out of the town.

Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said up to 60 homes in the town of about 3,000 people had been affected, with dozens of properties still without power as flood damage slows repair work. Damage assessments were expected to continue throughout the day.

Residents have been urged to stay off the roads unless travel is essential, with authorities warning against the temptation to drive through or sightsee around floodwaters.

A place of refuge was established at Clermont State School by Isaac Regional Council, though it was not required as residents supported one another, with neighbours opening their homes to those displaced.

Further north, the Bruce Highway remains closed at Marlborough between Rockhampton and Mackay, with long delays expected for motorists.

Rainfall across large parts of north and central Queensland has eased, with the weakened system forecast to move west and north-west through the Gulf Country. However, major flood warnings remain in place for several river systems, including the lower Flinders and parts of the Connors, Isaac and Mackenzie catchments.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli warned inland communities that further rainfall over already swollen catchments could have severe consequences.

"You've got areas that have seen more than a year's worth of rain in just a week," he said. "Those catchments are full, and any more rain could be devastating."

The small hinterland community of Eungella, west of Mackay, remains isolated after floodwaters damaged the only access roads, preventing food and medical supplies from reaching the town.

Emergency services continue to respond to hundreds of calls for assistance statewide, while residents are reminded to monitor warnings and avoid entering floodwaters. About 4,000 homes remain without power, though authorities confirmed no loss of life has been reported from the ex-cyclone.