Temporary Closure: Seaway Promenade (South)

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The Gold Coast Waterways Authority wishes to advise that the southern section of the Seaway Promenade/Training Wall will be temporarily closed to the public on:

  • Date: Thursday 13 November 2025
  • Time: 6:00am to 8:00pm
  • Reason: Authorised works and safety requirements

During this time, access to the southern section of the promenade will not be permitted to ensure public safety while works are undertaken. Signage and traffic management measures will be in place to guide pedestrians and other users.

The northern promenade area and surrounding parklands will remain open as normal.

We thank community members and visitors for their cooperation and understanding while this short-term closure is in place.

Your safety is our priority, and we appreciate your patience as we facilitate these authorised activities.

 

 

GCWA recognised at 2025 PIA Queensland Awards

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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.

The award acknowledges GCWA’s innovative work in developing and implementing robust, evidence-based planning processes that balance environmental protection, community access, and safe navigation across the waterways network.

GCWA CEO Chris Derksema said the award was a testament to the organisation’s commitment to excellence in planning and collaboration.

“This recognition reflects years of dedicated work to strengthen the way we plan for and manage the waterways,” he said.

“The team has built a model that integrates science, community engagement, and operational delivery — ensuring our waterways remain safe, sustainable, and accessible for everyone.”

The Waterways team, led by Manager Peter Kleinig, accepted the award on behalf of GCWA.

“We’re proud to see our integrated approach recognised by the planning profession,” Mr Kleinig said. “This work is the result of strong partnerships across government, industry, and the community, and it’s helping us chart a more sustainable course for the Gold Coast’s waterways.”

GCWA’s planning approach has been recognised nationally for its use of data-driven decision-making, long-term scenario planning, and commitment to engaging with diverse stakeholders.

The PIA Queensland Awards for Planning Excellence celebrate the state’s best examples of planning leadership, innovation, and impact.

Congratulations to all the winners and finalists recognised for shaping Queensland’s future through thoughtful, inclusive, and evidence-based planning.

(Photo: GCWA’s Peter Kleinig and Jason Smith accepting the award)

 

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

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. 

 

 

GCWA welcomes new funding for safer waterways

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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.

The funding recognises the growing challenge of managing abandoned property and ensuring safe access to the state’s waterways.

On the Gold Coast, GCWA works closely with Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) to identify, monitor, and remove these vessels — a critical part of keeping local waterways clean, safe, and accessible for all users.

Between April and June 2025, GCWA:

  • Monitored 173 vessels
  • Issued 35 removal notices
  • Removed 5 vessels
  • Resolved 20 abandoned vessel reports
  • Resolved 7 abandoned pontoons

This proactive compliance work helps reduce environmental harm, improve navigational safety, and ensure waterways remain open for recreational, commercial, and cultural use.

GCWA CEO Chris Derksema said “This program is a major step forward for marine safety in Queensland. We’re proud of the work we do locally and welcome the opportunity to continue collaborating with MSQ and others to support a safe, shared, and sustainable future for our waterways.”

GCWA will continue working in partnership with the Queensland Government and local stakeholders to protect and enhance the region’s iconic waterways for current and future generations.

 

South Wave Break Island Channel Dredging Completed Ahead of Schedule

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We’re pleased to announce that dredging works at South Wave Break Island and the Keyhole have been completed—earlier than planned!

This important milestone delivers improved access and safer navigation for both recreational and commercial waterway users. All dredged material was responsibly repurposed to nourish the foreshores of the Broadwater, supporting coastal resilience and environmental outcomes.

A big thank you to the community for your patience and cooperation throughout the works.

The $1.5 million project is part of our $50.4 million Waterways Management Program 2024–2028, which is delivering vital infrastructure to enhance access, safety and usability across the Gold Coast waterways.

Waterways Users App

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Gold Coast waterway users can enhance their on-water experience with marine navigation Mobile App DECKEE.

DECKEE allows you to find weather forecasts, local boat ramps, waterway zones and safety equipment requirements.

You can view a map of the Gold Coast waterways and access key Gold Coast Waterways Authority information through the App too.

Whether navigating the waterways, paddling with friends, heading out fishing or cruising with friends, the free DECKEE mobile app can enhance your waterways experience.

The app is free and available on both iOS and Android.

For more information and to download the App visit: Download the DECKEE Mobile App — DECKEE

 

 

This project utilises Software-as-a-Service and is part of delivering the Waterways Management program 2024-2028.

What is Software-as-a-Service?

GCWA uses third-party Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) providers to support the delivery and performance of its digital services.

The Authority does not collect, store, or process any personal or sensitive information through these services.

However, depending on the configuration and privacy practices of the SaaS provider, they may independently collect limited data, which could include personal or sensitive information. This collection is not initiated, managed, or controlled by GCWA.

Users are encouraged to review the privacy policies of any third-party services linked to or embedded within our digital platforms—or theirs—to understand how their data may be handled by those providers.

Santa Barbara Boat Ramp Replacement

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Replacement of the Santa Barbara Boat ramp is set to commence July 2025 and be completed in early October 2025. GCWA will be constructing a new dual-lane boat ramp to improve access to the waterways for recreational users

This replacement ensures safe access for waterway users to the popular destination.

During the construction works, the boat ramp will be closed for approximately sixteen (16) weeks to provide sufficient time for the demolition and construction of the new dual lane boat ramp.

Charles Holms Park will remain open for the duration of the works however there will be access restrictions to the carpark and the boat ramp will be closed.

The project is part of our $50.4 million investment in construction and upgrade projects to improve access to the Gold Coast waterways through the Waterways Management Program 2024-2028.

The Santa Barbara facility is a popular destination for the community on the Gold Coast when launching vessels and supporting recreational activities such as water skiing, fishing and waterway access.

To find out more about this project, please view our project fact sheet.

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