The Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) has delivered the first full precinct signage rollout at Muriel Henchman Park (The Spit Boat Ramps), marking an important milestone in the implementation of The Spit Signage Guidelines.

Developed by the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning (DSDIP) and funded through the Spit Works Program, the project introduces a coordinated suite of wayfinding and interpretive signage designed to improve navigation, accessibility and the overall visitor experience across the precinct.

Supporting navigation and access

New wayfinding signage has been installed throughout Muriel Henchman Park to assist pedestrians and vehicles moving through the area. The signage provides clear direction to key facilities, including boat ramps, parking, amenities, Volunteer Marine Rescue and The Paddle House.

This complements the broader Muriel Henchman Park Improvements Project, completed in December 2024, which delivered upgraded boating and public infrastructure to support continued growth in use of the Broadwater. Improvements include six boat ramp lanes, upgraded pontoons and floating walkways, expanded parking, accessible spaces, public amenities, pathways and landscaping.

Sharing the stories of The Spit

Alongside wayfinding, interpretive signage has been installed to enhance understanding of the environmental, cultural and community significance of The Spit.

The signage explores a range of themes, including:

• The history of the Broadwater and community advocacy on The Spit
• Environmental values such as seagrass meadows and migratory shorebirds
• The precinct’s role in recreation and maritime activity

QR codes on each sign link through to The Spit Stories website, where visitors can access more detailed information and continue exploring these stories online.

A collaborative approach

Interpretive content was developed in close collaboration with the Community Reference Panel – a group bringing together environmental, cultural, marine, trading and community perspectives, united by a shared passion for The Spit.

Working with a specialist interpretive writer, panel members contributed their knowledge and insights to help shape and refine stories across key themes including community, environment and ecology, leisure and trading, and maritime.

GCWA acknowledges and thanks the panel members and broader community who generously shared their time, knowledge and lived experience to support the development of this content.

Recognising traditional owner language

The signage also incorporates traditional owner language, with Muriel Henchman Park formally identified as Yungunn Place, meaning “Dugong”. This reflects the cultural significance of the area and strengthens connection to place for visitors.

First of several precinct rollouts

This project represents the first full precinct signage rollout under The Spit Signage Guidelines, with additional rollouts planned across The Spit.

The next precinct to be delivered will be the Top of The Spit, formally identified as Gowondo Place, meaning “Dolphin”.