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BRISBANE - South-east Queenslanders have been warned to take safety precautions as cyclone-force winds move towards the region.
The Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe weather warning at 9.20am (11.20am NZT), predicting winds of up to 90km/h between Coolangatta and Fraser Island this morning.
Severe winds are also expected to carry west to the Darling Downs and Granite Belt districts.
The wind warning follows reports of severe wind gusts throughout New South Wales, including Byron Bay, where winds of up to 109km/h have been recorded.
The State Emergency Service warned residents in affected areas to secure loose outdoor items and beware of fallen trees and power lines.
An Energex spokesman said crews were on stand-by to respond quickly to fallen power lines and power outages.
The SES has also advised people to stay away from the open ocean as large waves and rip currents were developing.
Residents requiring emergency assistance should contact the SES on 132 500.
Pottsville resident Nikki Todd said the heavy winds had brought down large trees on her property on the coast about 20km south of the Queensland border.
"One of the trees has just come down - it just missed our fence," she said.
"There are lots of branches all over the place.
"It's really gusty and squally rain has started now."
She said the weather became heavier about 9am (11am NZT).
"It comes in waves, but it's pretty bad," she said.
- AAP
