Dredging works are now underway at the Gold Coast Seaway entrance to improve navigational access and ensure one of the city’s most important waterways remains open for both recreational and commercial vessels.
Wave Break Island is a much-loved natural escape on the Gold Coast. Since its creation in 1985 as part of the Gold Coast Seaway project, the 37-hectare human-made island has played a key role in protecting The Broadwater’s western foreshores while providing a unique recreational destination for locals and visitors.
The Gold Coast Waterways Authority is undertaking a feasibility investigation into The Spit Master Plan intent for Wave Break Island to be a natural retreat in the heart of The Broadwater.
The transformation of Doug Jennings Park at The Spit has hit the three-quarter mark, with the $5.7 million upgrade on track for completion in October 2025. Seven months into the nine-month construction program, works are progressing well despite challenging wet weather. Delivered under The Spit Master Plan, the project is set to enhance one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic waterfront spaces — improving its character, resilience and usability for locals and visitors alike.
The Our Waterways Future survey has now closed.
Thank you to everyone who took part — we received strong engagement from the community, stakeholders and partners who care deeply about the future of our waterways.
The Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) has launched a new Development Assessment Code, Technical Information Guide, and Tidal Works Mapping product. These are key tools that form important elements of our statutory planning framework for tidal works and reclamation of tidal land.
GCWA has welcomed the Crisafulli Government’s $15 million Keeping Our Waterways Safe program — a significant investment to support the removal of abandoned and derelict vessels across Queensland.
Upgrades to the Broadwater Parklands boat ramp are set to commence early May 2025 and be completed by July 2025.
Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) is conducting essential maintenance painting works on the Sand Bypass System Jetty. Due to the nature of the work, temporary diversions at beach access points will be required.
Gold Coast waterway users can enhance their on-water experience with marine navigation Mobile App DECKEE.
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.