Keeping our waterway clean and safe over the Christmas break
The Christmas and New Year period is one of the busiest times on the Gold Coast’s waterways — and this year was no exception.
Over the holiday break, Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) officers responded to multiple incidents across the Broadwater, supporting partner agencies and working around the clock to maintain safer waterways access and protect the marine environment.
The incidents included a number of sunken vessels, two vessel fires, and ongoing pollution matters that required deployment of booms and ongoing monitoring.
In each case, GCWA officers assessed navigational and environmental risks, coordinating with Maritime Safety Queensland, Queensland Police Service, and other response agencies, and establishing yellow buoys to mark sunken vessels to alert other waterway users.
Some incidents could not be resolved immediately due to weather, tides or contractor availability. In these cases, GCWA officers remained on call, and continued monitoring conditions until removal or further action could occur.
Where vessels posed no immediate pollution risk, GCWA focused on maintaining navigational safety while supporting owners to arrange appropriate removal with specialist marine contractors.
Working together for safer waterways
GCWA’s role is to help keep the Gold Coast’s waterways safer, cleaner, and accessible. This work continues year-round, including weekends and public holidays.
We thank our partner agencies and the community for their cooperation over the holiday period and remind waterway users to:
- Report hazards or incidents early
- Keep clear of marked obstructions
- Take extra care during busy periods on the water
If you see a hazard or incident on the waterways, call our team on (07) 5539 7350 as soon as possible so we can respond quickly.
