Gold Coast Waterways Prepare for Summer

The Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) has several projects underway as the city's waterways head into the busier summer months. Here is a summary of recent updates from GCWA.

Wave Break Island spring clean

GCWA scheduled a spring clean of Wave Break Island from 21 to 25 September 2026, including vegetation management and removal of debris and waste. Visitors are asked to take their rubbish with them and follow on-site signage.

Paradise Point Channel speed limit trial

Status: trial underway. A consistent 6-knot limit for all vessels and jet skis is being trialled for 12 months in Paradise Point Channel, north of the Sovereign Islands bridge. It replaces a mix of speed rules that GCWA found were hard to interpret.

GCWA says it will give an update after six months and report on outcomes at the end of the trial. No decision has been made about permanent arrangements. Boaties can provide feedback to GCWA during the trial.

Dredging in the Gold Coast Seaway

In late August, GCWA reported dredging works in the Seaway to maintain safer navigational access, with most sand deposited offshore at Main Beach. Boaties were asked to slow down and give the dredge plenty of space.

Waterways Management Program 2026–2030

GCWA has released its rolling program, with more than $12 million in new funding for 2026–27 covering dredging, navigational access, asset renewal and the Sand Bypass System. Planned dredging includes the North Channel, South Channel and Coomera River Channel. GCWA notes that priorities and timing may change.

Before you head out

Check GCWA notices and Maritime Safety Queensland information for current conditions, closures and speed limits.