Dredging improves Broadwater access

Around 12,500 cubic metres of sand is being dredged from the Gold Coast's heavily used North Channel to improve access from the Gold Coast seaway to northern parts of the Broadwater.

Transport Minister John Mickel said today the $200,000 maintenance dredging works that began at the weekend should be completed by Thursday January 31 - depending on the weather.

"A local and experienced dredging contractor, McQuade Marine, is restoring the channel just north of Wave Break Island to a depth of 3.5 metres," Mr Mickel said.

"The sand will be deposited in the existing beach nourishment area offshore from South Stradbroke Island."

The Environmental Protection Agency, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and other assessment agencies approved the dredging and beach nourishment works, with conditions.

Media contact: Shannon Mackay 3237 1125

January 17, 2008