Derelict Vessel Removed from Browns Inlet, South Stradbroke Island

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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.

The vessel had been abandoned and was deteriorating in the waterway. It posed potential risks to navigation, marine safety and the surrounding ecosystem.

Safe and compliant removal

GCWA engaged a specialist marine contractor to carry out the removal works. The operation involved:

  • Transporting barges, excavators and support vessels to the inlet
  • Carefully dismantling the timber cruiser on-site
  • Transporting vessel debris via barge and truck
  • Disposing of all materials at licensed waste facilities

All works were completed in line with environmental and safety requirements.

Protecting our waterways

Removing derelict and abandoned vessels is a critical part of maintaining safe and healthy waterways. These vessels can leak fuel, spread debris, damage sensitive shorelines and create hazards for other waterway users.

GCWA encourages the community to continue reporting abandoned vessels through our website or by contacting our team.

 

 

Keeping the Sand Moving – and the Waterways Clear

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Every day, the Gold Coast Sand Bypass System quietly does the heavy lifting that keeps the Seaway open and our waterways connected.

Since Cyclone Alfred hit in March, more than 160 000 cubic metres of sand have been pumped through the system. This continuous process keeps the Gold Coast’s boating channels and beaches in balance by moving sand north from The Spit to South Stradbroke Island.

But it’s not just sand that moves. During regular maintenance and post-cyclone clean-ups, our team has hauled out more than 20 tonnes of debris, including rocks, branches, fencing wire, crab pots, golf balls and the occasional motorbike tyre.

“People are often surprised by what we find,” said Chief Executive Officer Chris Derksema.

“The system operates seven days a week, so constant monitoring and maintenance are essential to keep it performing safely and efficiently.”

In a typical year, the crew fills around eight industrial bins with waste. Since the cyclone earlier this year, they’ve already filled that many – a clear reminder of how powerful natural events can be along our coast.

The Sand Bypass System is one of the city’s most critical pieces of coastal infrastructure – keeping the Seaway safe, the beaches healthy and our coastline resilient. And for the dedicated team behind it, it’s all in a day’s work – rain, hail or shine.

 

 

Honouring the Missing: First Green Seat Installed at Doug Jennings Park

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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 Green Seat Project was founded by advocate Sally Leydon, whose mother Marion Barter vanished in 1997 after travelling to Europe. Marion, a Southport resident and much-loved teacher at The Southport School, never returned — leaving Sally and her family with nearly three decades of unanswered questions.

Determined to keep her mother’s story alive, Sally partnered with 7 News to create the Lady Vanishes podcast, which became one of Australia’s most widely downloaded true crime series and helped uncover new information that led to a coronial inquest. This year, Sally launched The Missing Matter podcast to highlight the reality that every 15 minutes, someone in Australia goes missing.

“I want to create a space for people who may not have had the chance to share their story, whether through media or podcasts, to talk about their missing loved ones,” Ms Leydon said.

“This initiative is deeply personal to me because I believe everyone deserves to be heard and valued. Missing persons and their families matter.”

Each Green Seat carries the statement “THE MISSING MATTER” and features a QR code linking to information about long-term missing persons and support services for affected families.

GCWA Chief Executive Officer Chris Derksema said supporting the project was an important way of creating places with meaning and purpose.

“Numerous studies have shown that being near water can boost wellbeing, reduce stress, and foster social connection,” Mr Derksema said.

“Public spaces like Doug Jennings Park should serve many roles – offering recreation, reflection, and connection. The Green Seat brings a deeply human story into the heart of our waterways.”

The installation of the first Green Seat reflects the Gold Coast Waterways Authority’s commitment to supporting community-driven initiatives that enhance wellbeing, encourage conversation and honour shared stories.

For more information, visit The Green Seat Project | The Missing Matter

Santa Barbara Boat Ramp Upgrade Complete

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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.

Read more

Sand Bypass System Facility Upgrade to Deliver Safer, Modern Amenities

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The Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) is extending the Sand Bypass System (SBS) facility at The Spit, Main Beach.

The SBS, completed in 1986, was the first of its kind in the world and continues to play a critical role in keeping the Gold Coast Seaway safe and navigable. Each year, the system pumps around 500,000 cubic metres of sand northwards to maintain safe access.

The facility extension will ensure the SBS meets modern safety and compliance standards while also improving amenities for staff and supporting GCWA’s broader operations.

What’s included

  •  New lunchroom, kitchen, change rooms, toilets and meeting room
  • Outdoor areas for training, meetings and events
  • Safer and more efficient working conditions for staff

Benefits for the community

The project will deliver long-term safety and operational benefits for waterways users and industry. It will help ensure the SBS can continue to support safer access to the Seaway — essential for the Gold Coast’s tourism, recreation and marine industries.

Timing

Construction will begin in September 2025 and is scheduled for completion by June 2026. Works will be contained within the SBS compound and minimal public impacts are expected.

 

Dredging Underway to Improve Seaway Access and Protect Gold Coast Beaches

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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.

Approximately 100,000 cubic metres of sand will be removed from a shoal that formed at the entrance following Tropical Cyclone Alfred. In partnership with the City of Gold Coast, this sand will be carefully placed at Main Beach to help counteract erosion caused by the cyclone and support the ongoing protection of the city’s iconic coastline.

Supporting Safer and More Accessible Waterways

Gold Coast Waterways Authority Chief Executive Officer Chris Derksema said the project reflects GCWA’s commitment to keeping the city’s waterways safer and more accessible.

“The Seaway entrance is a critical gateway for both local boaties and commercial operators, and this dredging will improve navigational access across the bar,” Mr Derksema said.

“We’re investing in dredging across priority waterways including North Channel and South Channel, completing works for the Keyhole Dredging Project, while also supporting the City of Gold Coast’s sand backpassing project. Together, these efforts are ensuring our waterways remain safer, navigable and resilient.”

Protecting Our Coastline

Deputy Mayor Cr Mark Hammel said the works demonstrate the importance of collaboration between GCWA and the City of Gold Coast.

“Our waterways are central to life on the Gold Coast, and safer access through the Seaway supports tourism, jobs, and recreation,” Cr Hammel said.

“This project demonstrates the value of collaboration between the City and GCWA, delivering safer waterways while also protecting our beaches for residents and visitors alike.”

Long-Term Investment in Waterways

 Over the next four years, more than $50.4 million will be invested in construction and upgrade projects to further enhance access, safety, and resilience across the Gold Coast’s waterways.

These works highlight the City and GCWA’s shared commitment to supporting both the region’s lifestyle and its economy by ensuring safe marine access and protecting the beaches that make the Gold Coast world-renowned.

 

Have Your Say: Wave Break Island Draft Feasibility Study

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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.

Now, the Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA), with support from the Queensland Government through the Spit Works Program, is inviting the community to provide feedback on a draft feasibility study that explores opportunities to enhance the island’s eco-tourism and recreational offerings.

What the study looks at

The study focuses on sustainable, low-impact ways to improve land use, visitor access, and management of the island, guided by the vision outlined in The Spit Master Plan. Proposed opportunities include:

  • Dredging a new western channel to improve vessel access and support day use of the foreshore area
  • Improved water access via new jetties and pontoons
  • Opportunities for overnight stay options including camping sites and cabins
  • Staged vegetation enhancements and targeted weed management
  • Creation of an underwater attraction for snorkeling along the eastern side.

Voices from the community and government

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie highlighted the importance of community consultation: “We are looking for ways to position Wave Break Island as a unique destination where visitors can enjoy a deeper connection with nature.”

Minister for Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell emphasised the eco-tourism focus: “Queensland is dedicated to fostering nature-based tourism that enhances visitor enjoyment while protecting our natural assets.”

Member for Surfers Paradise John-Paul Langbroek MP encouraged locals to contribute: “Wave Break Island’s best days are ahead. This is our chance to shape its future by creating new tourism opportunities and local jobs for decades to come.”

GCWA CEO Chris Derksema added: “The study responds to growing demand for marine destinations and outlines ways to enhance visitor experiences, whether for a day trip or an overnight stay. Community feedback is essential to make sure any improvements reflect the aspirations of locals and visitors alike.”

For more information visit Wave Break Island Feasibility Study | Gold Coast Waterways Authority

Learn more about The Spit Master Plan and its implementation: https://gcwa.qld.gov.au/spit-master-plan

 

Doug Jennings Park Revitalisation Reaches Major Milestone

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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.

What’s been achieved so far

  • Event space durability: More than 4,000 square metres of reinforced turf installed to better withstand major events.
  • More shade and biodiversity: 90 of the planned 186 trees planted, with 14,000 more plants coming soon.
  • Better amenities: New park furniture and transport infrastructure upgrades to improve visitor experiences.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie, said the upgrade is an example of how the Queensland Government is delivering on the shared vision of The Spit Master Plan.

“Reaching the three-quarter point in this $5.7 million upgrade signals real progress in transforming The Spit into a destination that balances use for locals, enhances tourism and creates long-term sustainability,” Mr Bleijie said.

Member for Surfers Paradise John-Paul Langbroek said the project will make access to the Seaway and Broadwater easier in time for summer.

“The revitalisation of Doug Jennings Park will also ensure the parkland remains attractive to event organisers, and its improved accessibility means its natural beauty can be enjoyed by all,” Mr Langbroek said.

More improvements on the way

Alongside the park upgrade, work has started on improving the Marine Stadium foreshore. This adjacent project will:

  • Create an accessible pathway to the water’s edge.
  • Add landscaping, shade trees, picnic furniture and seating walls.
  • Provide more spaces for relaxed, social gatherings by the water.

Gold Coast Waterways Authority CEO Chris Derksema said the works will build on the success of previous Spit Master Plan projects.

“Whether you’re arriving by boat, grabbing a crab sandwich at the kiosk, enjoying a picnic, or dancing at a music festival, this project is about celebrating our stunning waterways while providing a functional and inclusive space for all,” Mr Derksema said.

Key features of the upgrade

  • Seaway Green: gentle mounding for better views of the Seaway and Broadwater.
  • Better connectivity: new and improved pedestrian and cycle pathways.
  • Stronger event green: turf upgrades to reduce wear and tear from events.
  • Extensive planting: more shade, biodiversity and an enriched park environment.

The works are being delivered by Regal Innovations, a South-East Queensland-based contractor, supporting local jobs and suppliers.

Our Waterways Future: Project update

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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.

Your feedback is helping to inform the development of GCWA’s long-term strategy for the Gold Coast’s waterways.

Next steps: We are now analysing the input received and will share a summary of findings and next actions early 2026.

For more information check out Our Waterways Future project page. 

 

 

New Planning Framework Now Available  

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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.

These documents aim to provide greater clarity and consistency for applicants while supporting the long-term sustainable use of the Gold Coast waterways.

  • Development Assessment Code – July 2025: The new Code outlines assessment benchmarks for tidal works, helping applicants understand how to meet GCWA’s policy outcomes established under Board-approved policies for tidal works and reclamation.
  • Technical Information Guide – July 2025  The guide offers detailed technical information to support applicants in demonstrating compliance with the Code and preparing high-quality development proposals.
  • Tidal Works Mapping: This free digital resource provides detailed mapping data to assist applicants in identifying relevant planning information when preparing tidal works applications.

Together, these tools offer a clear pathway for applicants and industry stakeholders to engage with the statutory planning process and align with GCWA’s objectives to promote and manage the sustainable use of Gold Coast waterways, now and into the future.

 

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

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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.

https://gcwa.qld.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Whos-Who-in-the-Blue-v4-004.pdf

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

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.