Southport Broadwater dominates this suburb, a superb natural protected waterway used for boating, watersports, swimming and fishing. Wander along walkways, go cycling or view the play of light on the water – the largest expanse of calm water in Australia.
Southport has developed a reputation as a holiday destination from the 1890s. Brisbane residents heard of an excellent fishing and seaside location – favoured even by then Queensland Governor Sir Anthony Musgrave. At that time steamers and cutters plied the area and the kiosk baths were built. Major landmarks still standing include the exclusive St Hilda’s School, The Southport School and the Court House.
Southport and neighbouring Labrador have been the suburbs of renewed residential development.
Fishing is also popular, head to Barney Street fishing platform for whiting, bream, trevally and flathead. Gold Coast City Council’s fishing platforms are also at Labrador.
There’s protected swimming pools, children’s play areas and the Southport pool used by elite swimmers and divers for training. The Gold Coast sporting hall of fame is located at Owen Park and Broadwater Parklands is a kids’magnet. www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/parks
Southport is an educational hub with a TAFE, Central Queensland University and nearby Griffith University in close suburbs.
Major shopping centres and a mall offer busy precincts. Nearby Parklands showgrounds is home of the annual Gold Coast Show, produce markets on the second and fourth Saturday of the month, motor shows and other events.
Head over the bridge towards Main Beach for the Southport Yacht club and admire sleek superyachts. Southport Life Saving Club has a proud tradition of world championship, Australian and Queensland wins. The hardy can walk 9km at the Surfers Riverwalk from the bridge to Broadbeach.
Location: Central.
Orientation: Surfers Paradise 5km to the south, Labrador and Runaway Bay to the north.
