Marine Stadium recreational opportunities area extended to March 2027
The Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) has extended the current management arrangements for the Marine Stadium Recreational Opportunities Area at the Top of the Spit until 31 March 2027.
The arrangements support a broader range of recreational uses within Marine Stadium by ensuring the space can be enjoyed by swimmers, paddlers, and other non-powered watercraft.
Since the arrangements were introduced in March 2023, GCWA has been monitoring the area to assess how the space is being used and how effectively the management approach is working.
Monitoring has included:
- Regular water quality testing
- Monitoring recreational use of the area
- Monitoring powered vessel compliance
Results to date indicate positive outcomes for Marine Stadium, including:
- Improved water quality
- Strong community use of the recreational opportunities area
- High levels of compliance with vessel requirements
Extending the current arrangements to March 2027 will allow GCWA to continue monitoring outcomes and consider long-term management options for Marine Stadium.
Current arrangements include
- Recreational opportunities area – no powered watercraft permitted in the northern 300 metres of Marine Stadium
- Jetty and pontoon use area – powered watercraft may use for up to 20 minutes, no anchoring
- Approach channel – powered watercraft permitted, no anchoring or mooring
These arrangements were originally introduced following extensive community consultation as part of the Marine Stadium Destination Planning process in 2022 and the subsequent Marine Stadium Tidal Exchange Investigation.
For more information view the updated Waterways Notice
