Santa Barbara Boat Ramp Replacement

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Replacement of the Santa Barbara Boat ramp is set to commence July 2025 and be completed in early October 2025. GCWA will be constructing a new dual-lane boat ramp to improve access to the waterways for recreational users

This replacement ensures safe access for waterway users to the popular destination.

During the construction works, the boat ramp will be closed for approximately sixteen (16) weeks to provide sufficient time for the demolition and construction of the new dual lane boat ramp.

Charles Holms Park will remain open for the duration of the works however there will be access restrictions to the carpark and the boat ramp will be closed.

The project is part of our $50.4 million investment in construction and upgrade projects to improve access to the Gold Coast waterways through the Waterways Management Program 2024-2028.

The Santa Barbara facility is a popular destination for the community on the Gold Coast when launching vessels and supporting recreational activities such as water skiing, fishing and waterway access.

To find out more about this project, please view our project fact sheet.

Any damaged or missing aids to navigation such as beacons, buoys, markers or signs, should be reported as soon as possible on
07 5539 7350

For community engagement, communications or media enquiries please contact mail@gcwa.qld.gov.au

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Who’s Who in the Blue

Who’s Who in the Blue explains who is responsible for managing, protecting and regulating Queensland’s waterways, particularly on the Gold Coast.

It clarifies agency roles across safety, environmental protection, pollution response, compliance and infrastructure, helping avoid confusion and duplication.

Overall, it’s a quick reference guide that supports coordination, accountability and effective waterway stewardship.

https://gcwa.qld.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Whos-Who-in-the-Blue-v4-004.pdf

Access, Management & Destinations

  • Access & Management

    Information on Anchoring & Mooring, Boating, Dredging, Operations Team & Tidal Works

    Learn More

  • Our Destinations

    GCWA managed multi-use destinations, building infrastructure for commercial and recreation use of Gold Coast waterways.

    Learn More

Acknowledgement of Country

The Gold Coast Waterways Authority acknowledges and pays respect to the traditional custodians, the Yugambeh peoples of South East Queensland, including the Kombumerri, Mununjali, Wangerriburra, Bullongin and other clans, and their Elders past, present and emerging. We recognise their unique and ongoing spiritual and cultural connection with the land and waters of the Gold Coast area.

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