Popular Gold Coast boardwalk to receive safety and accessibility enhancements

The Beree-Badalla Reserve Boardwalk at Palm Beach on Queensland’s Gold Coast will be upgraded to a three metre wide path to improve accessibility and safety.

The existing boardwalk has deteriorated over time due to large storm surge events, the natural marine environment and increased use by the community.

These renewal works will improve the resilience of the boardwalk against weather events and the marine environment and will minimise the need for any future maintenance.

The City of Gold Coast has commenced the $3.9 million project which will include a new 640 metre boardwalk that stretches through saltmarsh and mangrove wetlands along Currumbin Creek from Thrower Drive boat ramp to Salk Oval Parklands.   

The Beree-Badalla Reserve Boardwalk upgrades are jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Queensland Disaster Recovery Minister Nikki Boyd advised “Heavy use due to its popularity and weather have taken their toll on the boardwalk’s condition.

“We’ve worked closely with the City of Gold Coast on a plan to build back better with a wider boardwalk, new fishing platforms, seating, a kayak launching ramp and outdoor shower.

“Building back better means delivering storm resilient community infrastructure for the enjoyment of Gold Coasters, and interstate and international visitors sharing our great lifestyle and supporting good jobs.” 

The boardwalk which was built in the early 1990s is 1.5 metres wide and has not undergone any upgrades since it was initially built.  

It has become increasingly popular in recent years which has contributed to its deterioration.

The project aims to accommodate further projected population growth as well as encouraging active travel through improved access to the City’s Active Transport Network.  

New public amenities such as shower facilities, launch ramp, seating areas and fishing platforms will also be included as part of the project.

The upgrades are expected to be completed by mid-2025, weather permitting.