GCWA is responsible for monitoring and enforcing anchoring and mooring rules across the Broadwater, rivers, creeks and canals. These rules ensure fair access to popular anchorage areas, particularly during busy weekends and public holiday periods.
The Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) has been recognised at the 2025 Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) Queensland Awards, taking out the Improving Planning Processes Award for its pioneering approach to managing one of Australia’s most complex and dynamic coastal environments.
Please be advised that the southern section of the Seaway Promenade/Training Wall will be closed to the public on Thursday 13 November 2025, between 6:00am and 8:00pm, due to authorised works.
The revitalisation of Doug Jennings Park is now complete, transforming one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic parklands into a vibrant, accessible destination for the community to enjoy.
The Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) has been recognised at the 2025 Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) Queensland Awards, taking out the Improving Planning Processes Award for its pioneering approach to managing one of Australia’s most complex and dynamic coastal environments.
Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) has removed a 12.8-metre abandoned timber Millcraft cruiser from Browns Inlet on South Stradbroke Island, improving safety and protecting the surrounding natural environment.
Every day, the Gold Coast Sand Bypass System quietly does the heavy lifting that keeps the Seaway open and our waterways connected.
Australia’s first Green Seat has been unveiled at Doug Jennings Park, The Spit, offering a place of reflection for families of missing loved ones and raising awareness of the thousands of people who disappear every year.
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.
The Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) is extending the Sand Bypass System (SBS) facility at The Spit, Main Beach.
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
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.
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.