Gold Coast reports 1.2 million cubic metres of sand in beach recovery update

The City of Gold Coast reported on 8 October 2026 that approximately 1.2 million cubic metres of sand had been transferred during the Trud R dredge’s April-to-October campaign. At the time of the announcement, the offshore work was nearing completion and the vessel was expected to leave that week.

The operation formed part of recovery from Tropical Cyclone Alfred and the City’s broader beach nourishment programme. Council put the total sand returned through recovery work since the cyclone at almost three million cubic metres.

Council explained that much of the extra sand remained offshore, where it helps reduce wave energy and provides an erosion buffer. During calmer conditions, some of that sand is expected to move towards shore and contribute to wider beaches. The Australian and Queensland governments fully funded the dredging through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. The release’s anticipated vessel departure is not a separate confirmation that work has finished.