Santa Barbara Boat Ramp Upgrade Complete!

The upgrade of the Santa Barbara Boat Ramp is now complete, delivering a safer, more accessible and higher-capacity facility for the Gold Coast boating community.

This important project was delivered in partnership with the City of Gold Coast, which undertook associated asphalting works to provide a smooth and durable finish to the site. The result is a high-quality outcome that will be enjoyed by the community for years to come.

The new ramp enhances:

  • Safety: providing a more secure and reliable launch point for vessels.
  • Accessibility: making it easier for all users to get on the water.
  • Capacity: improving efficiency and reducing congestion at one of the city’s most popular recreational boating locations.

Gold Coast Waterways Authority thanks all users for their patience during construction. This investment ensures that the Santa Barbara Boat Ramp continues to meet the needs of local boaters, visitors, and the broader community.

Don’t just take our word for it — check out the photos, or better yet, head down to Santa Barbara and see the improvements for yourself.

      

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.

Download Who’s Who in the Blue

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.

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

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
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