Single-Lane Delays and Major Rail Shutdowns for Easter Monday Commuters

Easter Monday Traffic and Public Transport Overview

As the Gold Coast observes the Easter Monday public holiday today, 6 April 2026, commuters and holidaymakers should prepare for a complex morning on the transport network. While traditional office-bound traffic is expected to be lighter than a standard Monday, significant infrastructure projects and holiday events are creating several major bottlenecks. Local authorities are advising everyone to allow for at least 45 to 60 minutes of additional travel time, particularly when moving between the Gold Coast and Brisbane or navigating the central coastal strip.

Major Rail Shutdown and Service Changes

Translink has confirmed that the massive 23-day rail network shutdown remains in full effect today. This is part of the final integration phase for the Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail project. For those relying on the Gold Coast line, the following disruptions are active:

• Buses Replacing Trains: All train services are suspended between Banoon and Boggo Road stations. Rail replacement buses are operating in this section, including express and all-stops services.
• Combined Service: Gold Coast and Beenleigh line trains are currently running as a combined all-stops service between Varsity Lakes and Banoon.
• Travel Impacts: Commuters heading toward Brisbane should expect significant delays. Ensure you check the Translink journey planner as replacement bus stops may be located away from the main station platforms.

Gold Coast Highway and Light Rail Stage 3

Construction on the Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 continues to be the primary cause of road congestion along the coast. On the Gold Coast Highway, motorists will encounter a major bottleneck between Miami and Burleigh Heads. The highway remains reduced to a single lane in both directions between Dawn Parade and George Street East. A strictly enforced 40km/h work zone speed limit is in effect. Frequent stops and slows are expected as crews perform finishing works on the track slab and overhead wire stringing.

North Gold Coast and Hinterland Roadworks

In the city's north, construction for the Coomera Connector Stage 1 is progressing. The bridge overpass at Ridgevale Drive remains fully closed today as part of the 2026 replacement program. Motorists in the Helensvale and Coomera areas are encouraged to use the Smith Street Motorway or the M1 as a detour. Additionally, in Mudgeeraba, Berrigans Road remains closed to through traffic between Gold Coast-Springbrook Road and Mark Way for essential pavement rehabilitation.

Event Traffic: The Aussies 2026

The Australian Surf Life Saving Championships (The Aussies) are in full swing today across major coastal hubs. Expect heavy pedestrian activity and extremely limited parking availability near competition beaches from Broadbeach to Burleigh. Localized traffic diversions may be implemented at short notice by police to manage crowd flow. Visitors are strongly encouraged to use park-and-ride facilities or local bus services to avoid congestion in beachfront precincts.