Paradise Point Boat Ramp upgrade works now underway to improve safety and access

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The Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) has commenced construction on the Paradise Point Boat Ramp upgrade, with works now underway following the award of the construction contract to Australian Marine and Civil.

The project will renew the existing 23-year-old facility and deliver a safer, more reliable boat ramp for the local boating community and visitors.

What’s being delivered

The upgraded facility will include:

  • A new three-lane boat ramp
  • A centrally located floating walkway
  • Improved access for a wide range of vessels
  • Renewed infrastructure designed to improve safety and usability

The floating walkway alignment has been adjusted slightly to avoid encroachment into an existing seabed lease. Final positioning will be confirmed during construction following detailed survey and site works.

Why this work is needed

The current ramp has experienced wear over time, including movement between deck planks that has created uneven surfaces and localised drop-offs in the sub tidal zone.

Renewing the facility will improve safety, reliability and access for all users, particularly during busy boating periods and changing tidal conditions.

Construction impacts

Construction will be staged to keep part of the ramp open where possible.

Users should expect some temporary closures during the works, including at times on weekends. Signage will be in place on site and updates will be provided as works progress.

Boaters are encouraged to plan ahead and consider nearby alternative ramps during periods of closure, including:

  • Jabiru Island
  • Boykambil Esplanade
  • Turana Street
  • Centenary Drive

Project details

Investment: $1.65 million
Construction start: April 2026
Status: Works underway

Paradise Point Boat Ramp upgrade to improve safety and access

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The Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) has awarded the construction contract for the Paradise Point Boat Ramp upgrade to Australian Marine and Civil, with works scheduled to begin from April 2026.

The project will replace the existing 23-year-old ramp, which requires renewal due to separation of deck planks that has resulted in uneven surfaces and localised drop-offs in the sub tidal zone.

What’s being delivered

 The upgraded facility will include:

  • A three-lane boat ramp
  • A centrally located floating walkway
  • Safer and more reliable access for a wide range of vessels

The floating walkway alignment has been adjusted slightly to avoid encroachment into an existing seabed lease. Final positioning will be confirmed once detailed design and survey works are complete.

Why this work is needed

Over time, the existing ramp has experienced wear and movement between deck planks. These conditions can create safety risks for users, particularly during busy periods and changing tides.

This upgrade ensures Paradise Point continues to provide safe, reliable boating access for the local community and visitors.

 Construction impacts

  • Construction will be staged to keep part of the ramp open where possible
  • Some closures will be required, including at times on weekends
  • Boaters are encouraged to plan ahead and consider nearby alternative ramps during the works

Nearby alternative facilities include Jabiru Island, Boykambil Esplanade, Turana Street and Centenary Drive.

Project details

  •  Investment: $1.65 million
  • Construction start: April 2026
  • Status: Contract awarded

Australia Day long weekend 6-knot speed limit in the Broadwater

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Boaters are reminded that a 6-knot speed limit will be in place in the signed Broadwater speed zone during the Australia Day long weekend, from Saturday 24 January to midnight Monday 26 January.

The Australia Day long weekend is one of the busiest times of the year on the Broadwater, with families, paddlers, swimmers, personal watercraft and vessels all sharing the water. The temporary speed limit is designed to help reduce wash, improve visibility and reaction time, and support safe shared use during peak conditions.

Where the speed limit applies

The 6-knot speed limit applies only within the signed Broadwater zone, as shown on S9-201 Wave Break Island Australia Day speed limit

Clear speed signs will be in place at boat ramps and on the water to help boaters identify where the temporary speed limit applies.

What boaters can expect

During the long weekend, waterway users can expect:

  • Heavy vessel traffic and mixed water use, especially in popular areas
  • On-water speed signage clearly marking the 6-knot zone
  • A visible on-water presence focused on safety, education and compliance

Boaters are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra time for their trip, and adjust their speed to suit conditions.

Why slowing down matters

Reducing speed during peak periods:

  • Minimises wash near swimmers, paddlecraft and anchored vessels
  • Improves reaction time and visibility in crowded conditions
  • Helps protect shoreline infrastructure and the natural environment
  • Supports a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone on the water

Help keep the Broadwater safe

Everyone has a role to play in keeping the Broadwater safe, welcoming and enjoyable during busy holiday periods. Boaters are reminded to:

  • Observe all speed signage
  • Keep a proper lookout at all times
  • Slow down in busy or congested areas
  • Share the water respectfully with other users

Further reminders and safety information will be shared across the Australia Day long weekend.

Australia Day Long Weekend: 6-knot speed limit on the Broadwater

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Boaties are reminded that a 6-knot speed limit will be in place on the Gold Coast Broadwater from Saturday 24 January to midnight Monday 26 January 2026 as part of Australia Day long-weekend safety arrangements.

The temporary speed limit applies in the Broadwater speed zone only and will be clearly marked with speed signs on the water, complemented by signs at boat ramps.

The Australia Day long weekend is one of the busiest times of the year on the Broadwater, with boats, jet skis, swimmers, paddlers and families all sharing the water.

Slowing down to 6 knots helps reduce wash, improves reaction time and visibility, and makes it safer for everyone to enjoy the waterways during peak conditions.

What boaters need to know

  • Speed limit: 6 knots
  • When: From Saturday 24 January to midnight Monday 26 January 2026
  • Where: Signed Broadwater speed-limit zone (Map S9-201)
  • Why: Increased water traffic and mixed recreational use during the Australia Day long weekend

 What to expect on the water

  • Heavy vessel traffic, particularly around popular locations
  • Swimmers and low-impact activities such as snorkelling and paddling
  • On-water patrols active throughout the long weekend
  • Clear yellow buoys with speed signs on the water, complemented by signs at local boat ramps showing where the speed limit applies

Boaties are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra time, and navigate patiently around other water users.

The speed limit applies only within the signed speed zone and only for the Australia Day long-weekend period. Normal speed limits resume after midnight on Monday 26 January.

For updates and reminders throughout the long weekend, follow GCWA on Facebook.

Keeping our waterway clean and safe over the Christmas break

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The Christmas and New Year period is one of the busiest times on the Gold Coast’s waterways — and this year was no exception.

Over the holiday break, Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) officers responded to multiple incidents across the Broadwater, supporting partner agencies and working around the clock to maintain safer waterways access and protect the marine environment.

The incidents included a number of sunken vessels, two vessel fires, and ongoing pollution matters that required deployment of booms and ongoing monitoring.

In each case, GCWA officers assessed navigational and environmental risks, coordinating with Maritime Safety Queensland, Queensland Police Service, and other response agencies, and establishing yellow buoys to mark sunken vessels to alert other waterway users.

Some incidents could not be resolved immediately due to weather, tides or contractor availability. In these cases, GCWA officers remained on call, and continued monitoring conditions until removal or further action could occur.

Where vessels posed no immediate pollution risk, GCWA focused on maintaining navigational safety while supporting owners to arrange appropriate removal with specialist marine contractors.

Working together for safer waterways

GCWA’s role is to help keep the Gold Coast’s waterways safer, cleaner, and accessible. This work continues year-round, including weekends and public holidays.

We thank our partner agencies and the community for their cooperation over the holiday period and remind waterway users to:

  • Report hazards or incidents early
  • Keep clear of marked obstructions
  • Take extra care during busy periods on the water

If you see a hazard or incident on the waterways, call our team on (07) 5539 7350 as soon as possible so we can respond quickly.

Christmas and New Year Office Closure

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GCWA office will close at 12.00pm on Wednesday 24 December 2025 and reopen at 9.00am on Friday 2 January 2026.

While our office counter and administrative services will be closed during this period, on-water operations and emergency response will continue throughout the Christmas and New Year period, including during peak boating times.

GCWA works closely with Maritime Safety Queensland, Queensland Police, Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) and other agencies to maintain safety on the waterways. Our after-hours emergency line remains active to respond to urgent matters such as navigation hazards, aid failures or pollution incidents.

If you require urgent assistance relating to:

  • navigation aid faults
  • navigation hazards
  • pollution incidents

please call (07) 5539 7350 so the matter can be responded to promptly.

The office closure applies to non-urgent administrative services only and does not reduce safety coverage on the waterways during this busy time.

From all of us at the Gold Coast Waterways Authority, we wish you a happy, safe and relaxing festive season.

Thank you for your support throughout the year. We look forward to working with you in 2026.

New appointments strengthen GCWA Board

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GCWA has welcomed new appointments to its Board, while acknowledging the contribution of outgoing members who have helped guide the organisation through a period of significant growth and reform.

The new appointments will strengthen GCWA’s governance and capability as it continues to manage and protect the Gold Coast’s waterways.

The newly appointed Board members are:

  • Ms Deanna Nott (Chairperson)
  • Ms Kerry Noyes
  • Mr Luke Bradnam
  • Mrs Sarah Colgate

Together they bring a broad range of expertise across strategic communication and governance, marine and boating operations, tourism and visitor economy, business development and industry and stakeholder engagement.

Mr Andrew Fielding remains on the GCWA Board, with Ms Shelley Curtis continuing to serve as the City of Gold Coast Mayor’s representative.

GCWA Chief Executive Officer Chris Derksema thanked outgoing Board members for their leadership and guidance.

“Our Board plays a vital role in providing strategic oversight as GCWA delivers an expanding program of waterways management, infrastructure renewal and community engagement,” Mr Derksema said.

“I thank our outgoing Directors for their contribution and welcome our new Board members as we continue to deliver safe, accessible and well-managed waterways for the Gold Coast community.”

The outgoing Board members Mr Greg Vann, Ms Judy Spence, Ms Aysin Dedekorkut and Mr Mark Gibbs are thanked for their service.

The new appointments take effect from Friday 19 December 2025.

Doug Jennings Park: Temporary traffic changes on Sunday 11 January 2026

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Doug Jennings Park will be the venue for the Magic Millions Polo and Showjumping event on Sunday, 11 January 2026.

To support the safe delivery of the event, the Doug Jennings Park ring road will be closed to vehicle traffic from 6am to 8pm on Sunday, 11 January 2026.

Pedestrian access will remain available to all other areas of the park outside the event area during this time.

Visitors are encouraged to plan their visit in advance and follow any on-site signage and directions from event staff.

Anchoring & Mooring on the Gold Coast

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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.

We regularly hear community concerns about vessels that appear to “never move”. In practice, Queensland’s anchoring rules mean that some vessels only need to move a short distance (or leave the area for 24 hours) before their anchoring cycle restarts. This can make it seem like nothing is changing, even while compliance actions are occurring.

GCWA’s Compliance Team is out on the water every day conducting patrols, issuing warnings and infringements, and taking action where vessels exceed time limits.

Recent Compliance Activity in Marine Stadium

GCWA recently undertook a targeted operation in Marine Stadium focusing on vessels overstaying the 7-day anchoring limit.

Outcomes of the operation:

  • There were 9 vessels found non-compliant
  • The team has already removed 5 of those vessels
  • The remaining 4 are scheduled for removal later this week

 Anchoring Rules at a Glance

  • Some areas permit up to 7 days in a 60-day period. After this, the vessel must move at least one nautical mile from its original location or leave the area for 24 consecutive hours. If a vessel stays for up to 7 consecutive days, moves into another anchoring area for 24 consecutive hours, and then returns, the 7-day cycle restarts.
  • Other areas allow only 24 hours in a 30-day period.
  • Requirements vary depending on location, so it’s important to check the map before anchoring or visit: Mooring | Anchoring.

These rules help maintain safe navigation, reduce overcrowding, and ensure fair access for all waterway users.

Who Handles What? GCWA vs MSQ

 GCWA often receives questions about abandoned, sunken, or unseaworthy vessels. To help clarify roles:

  • GCWA manages anchoring rules, access, and compliance with time limits.
  • Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) is responsible for unsafe, derelict, unseaworthy or sunken vessels, including marine pollution risks.

GCWA works closely with MSQ when issues overlap, but each agency has distinct responsibilities.

We appreciate the community’s continued interest in how our waterways are managed. GCWA remains committed to fair access, responsible boating, and maintaining safe and enjoyable waterways for everyone.

 

 

Schoolies Music Festival at Doug Jennings Park – 26 November 2025

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Doug Jennings Park will host the Schoolies music festival on Wednesday, 26 November 2025.

The event is being held within a fenced and ticketed area of the park. Doug Jennings Park remains open to the public, and people can continue to access all areas outside of the event footprint.

Access and Traffic

  • The Doug Jennings Park ring road will stay open during the event.
  • Vehicles and pedestrians can still access all parts of the park outside the music festival area.
  • Temporary fencing, staging, event vehicles and lighting towers will be in place.
  • Visitors are asked to follow signage and directions from event staff and traffic controllers.

What to Expect

  • Event set-up and sound checks will take place throughout the day.
  • The music festival will run into the evening, with event pack-down occurring after the event.
  • Increased traffic and pedestrian movement is expected around Seaworld Drive and The Spit.

Staying Safe and Informed

We are working with event organisers, Queensland Police and emergency services to ensure the event is safe and well managed for both festival attendees and the wider community.

Please plan your visit accordingly, take care around pedestrians and event vehicles, and allow extra travel time if you are accessing the park on the day.

 

 

 

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

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  • Our Destinations

    GCWA managed multi-use destinations, building infrastructure for commercial and recreation use of Gold Coast waterways.

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