In pics: Flood-ravaged Australia under goes big clean-up

3 April 2017 1:17 PM IST

A massive clean-up was in full swing Monday as floodwaters receded across parts of Australia devastated by a cyclone.

The Insurance Council of Australia has estimated the damage bill could reach Aus$1 billion (US$770 million).
One of the worst hit areas was Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday islands, key drawcards for foreign tourists.
Many of those who fled the area have begun heading back, with Morrow warning \"it won't be pleasant.\"
The cyclone dumped more than a metre of rain on parts of Queensland and the huge volume of water is still slowly spilling down river systems.
Authorities said the estimated peak had now been revised down, although major flood warnings still exist.
Officials said it would be a long haul for towns such as Lismore and Murwillumbah that were inundated by floods.
Military and emergency personnel continued to work to restore essential services such as water and electricity in affected towns.
People braved mud-caked streets to begin clearing out homes and shops, with mountains of ruined possessions piled on pavements.

The Insurance Council of Australia has estimated the damage bill could reach Aus$1 billion (US$770 million).

A massive clean-up was in full swing Monday as floodwaters receded across parts of Australia devastated by a cyclone.