Residents who prepared for the cyclone now have little to do but wait and see how their efforts will pay off against the rising water.

Sharks spotted in flooded canals as Australia grapples with Cyclone Alfred aftermath - Authorities warn of rising waters, health risks and power outages as recovery efforts begin

Ex-tropical cyclone Alfred lingered off the south-east Australian coast on Saturday and forecasters said Brisbane is likely to miss the worst of the storm, a relief for millions of residents in the region who have been staying indoors.