Hinze Dam may be the main drinking water supply for the Gold Coast, but its breathtaking setting, boating facilities, picnic areas, multi-use trails and fishing coves also make it a great destination for tourists and locals alike, especially during the summer. The 40-year-old dam is located in the heart of the Gold Coast hinterland—about a 30-minute drive from the bustle and glitz of Surfers Paradise.
Before the dam was built, the area comprised of farming homesteads surrounded by cultivated fields and grassland. Though the look of the area has changed quite a bit over the years, it has certainly retained its charm and relaxed atmosphere. Built across the Nerang River, the dam was originally constructed in 1976, raised in 1989 and significantly upgraded in 2011. Its immense wall has a crest height of 108.5 metres above sea level—the highest clay core rock dam in Queensland. It is a sight to behold.
Hinze Dam is even more impressive when it reaches full capacity and water flows over the spillway like a waterfall, attracting more visitors who come to admire the spectacle. Visitors are welcome to take a scenic stroll or ride their bikes along the designated track on top of the wall, which stretches about 1.8 kilometres and provides fantastic views over the lake. Anglers and nature lovers can enjoy boating at Hinze Dam, where electric-powered watercraft, sail craft and paddle craft are allowed to operate. No fuel power vessels are allowed on the water though and activities such as water skiing, jet skiing, tubing and swimming are also not permitted. There are two large boat ramps and associated facilities located at the Eastern Boat Ramp off Range Road, and the Western Boat Ramp off Nerang-Murwillumbah Road.
Fishing is permitted, and anglers can cast off from their vessels as well as the shoreline near the boat ramp. Fishing permits are required, however, and can be obtained from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries. The 1,500-hectare dam is stocked with bass, golden perch (also known as yellowbelly), silver perch and saratoga. The Hinze Dam Fish Management Committee is charged with stocking the dam. In 2016, 67,000 bass fingerlings were released in the dam.
The recent stage-three upgrade of Hinze Dam brought with it many new fun activities and places to explore, including an interpretive information centre and café, walking paths, bike tracks, horse trails, lakeside parks, barbecue areas and much more.
The main Hinze Dam parklands incorporates Picnic Parkland, Pocket Park and Waterside Park, and includes an interpretive walk with interesting facts about the dam wall, catchment, local fish, plants and wildlife. The area also includes picnic tables, shelters, toilets and barbeques. A playground is located at Picnic Parkland for kids to enjoy. For those who like to explore areas by bike, the Peter Hallinan Mountain Bike Precinct is located on the northern side of the Hinze Dam and is accessible via foot or bike across the dam wall. The mountain bike precinct is a network of purpose-built mountain bike trails constructed and maintained by the Gold Coast Mountain Bike Club. Members of the public can ride these trails when competitions are not underway. Fire trails through the catchment land around the lake are also available for recreation use and provide opportunities for horse riding, biking, walking and running. Dogs on leashes are now welcome in some designated areas at the dam.
Each summer, Hinze Dam proves to be a popular recreation destination. Although Seqwater rangers regularly patrol its areas, visitors are reminded to be vigilant about their own safety.
To reach Hinze Dam, take the Advancetown Road, which leads to a lower carpark and spillway, or forks to the right, leading to the upper car park adjacent to the information centre and café complex.
Plan ahead and play it safe.
Before visiting any Seqwater dams, lakes or parks make sure you:
Check out Seqwater’s recreation and safety notices.
Know what activities are permitted and where.
Obtain permits and proper safety equipment.
Are aware of out access rules and policies.
Download a copy of site recreation guide.
