Keeping the Sand Moving – and the Waterways Clear

Every day, the Gold Coast Sand Bypass System quietly does the heavy lifting that keeps the Seaway open and our waterways connected.

Since Cyclone Alfred hit in March, more than 160 000 cubic metres of sand have been pumped through the system. This continuous process keeps the Gold Coast’s boating channels and beaches in balance by moving sand north from The Spit to South Stradbroke Island.

But it’s not just sand that moves. During regular maintenance and post-cyclone clean-ups, our team has hauled out more than 20 tonnes of debris, including rocks, branches, fencing wire, crab pots, golf balls and the occasional motorbike tyre.

“People are often surprised by what we find,” said Chief Executive Officer Chris Derksema.

“The system operates seven days a week, so constant monitoring and maintenance are essential to keep it performing safely and efficiently.”

In a typical year, the crew fills around eight industrial bins with waste. Since the cyclone earlier this year, they’ve already filled that many – a clear reminder of how powerful natural events can be along our coast.

The Sand Bypass System is one of the city’s most critical pieces of coastal infrastructure – keeping the Seaway safe, the beaches healthy and our coastline resilient. And for the dedicated team behind it, it’s all in a day’s work – rain, hail or shine.