Accessibility and Inclusion
The ASICS Gold Coast Marathon welcomes participants, supporters and visitors of different ages, backgrounds and abilities. Events Management Queensland is committed to providing clear information, respectful service and practical support so people can make informed choices about taking part in or attending the event.
A major road-running event operates across public roads, parklands and temporary event infrastructure, so access arrangements can change from normal conditions. Participants and visitors with specific requirements are encouraged to review the information below and contact the event team as early as possible before race weekend.
Choosing the right event
The race program includes the ASICS Gold Coast Marathon, Wheelchair Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km Run, Wheelchair 10km, 5km, Wheelchair 5km and Junior Dash. Different races have their own minimum ages, cut-off times, course rules and equipment requirements. Please review the relevant race page, course map and current event guide before entering.
Walking is permitted in the 5km within the published cut-off time. Participants using prams or day wheelchairs should review the current Policies and Etiquette and Frequently Asked Questions pages for the races in which these are permitted and the applicable start arrangements.
Wheelchair participation
Dedicated racing-wheelchair events are offered over 5km, 10km and the marathon distance. These events are conducted under the applicable athletics and wheelchair-racing rules, and only recognised racing wheelchairs are permitted in the dedicated wheelchair races.
Day wheelchairs may participate in other races where permitted under the event policies. For safety in larger fields, specific start-zone arrangements apply. Participants should read the latest event information and contact the team before entering if they would like to discuss the most suitable race or start arrangement.
Companion Card and support people
The event recognises the Companion Card. A companion supporting a participant with disability can apply for a race number that allows access to the course without purchasing a full participant package. Proof of the participant’s Companion Card is required.
A companion who would also like an official time, finisher medal, shirt and other participant benefits should complete a separate paid race entry. The Companion Entry Form is available on the event website.
Guide dogs, assistance animals and quiet support
Animals are not permitted to accompany participants in a race unless they are an accredited guide or assistance animal. Pre-approval from the event organiser is required so appropriate arrangements can be discussed.
Empower Assistance Dogs provides a designated supportive space on the event lawn during race weekend. The area and therapy dogs can offer a calmer environment for people who need reassurance before their race or while attending the precinct.
Race-precinct access
The main race precinct is at Southport Broadwater Parklands. The current precinct map identifies accessible toilets, designated drop-off locations, pedestrian routes, medical services, the information booth and the Empower Assistance Dogs area.
Normal parking and road access change during event week. Car parks within the Broadwater Parklands may be closed and surrounding roads are affected by temporary closures. The City of Gold Coast mobility map provides information about accessible parking and toilets in the broader area. Please check the current event transport page and precinct map close to race weekend.
Registered participants can travel to and from the race precinct free on the G:link during the published event hours by showing their race number. The recommended station and pedestrian route are shown in the event guide.
Children, families and spectators
The Junior Dash gives children an opportunity to take part in the major-event experience, with published wave and parent-collection arrangements. Families should review the minimum ages, supervision requirements and current race information before entering.
Spectators with accessibility requirements are encouraged to plan their viewing location in advance. The event precinct and course use temporary fencing, road closures and controlled crossings, so movement may differ from a normal day. Contact the event team for the latest information about precinct access and viewing options.
Accessible information and language support
Event information is provided through the website, event guide, participant emails, app and race-week updates. Key information is also translated for participants in China, Japan and Korea.
People who have difficulty accessing information in the published format, or who need clarification about their visitor journey, may contact the event team. The team will provide the clearest information available and discuss reasonable assistance where practical.
Contact the event team
Accessibility needs vary from person to person. Early contact gives the team the best opportunity to understand your requirements and explain the arrangements relevant to your race or visit.
Email: info@goldcoastmarathon.com.au
Phone: (07) 5668 9888
Continuous improvement
Events Management Queensland welcomes feedback about accessibility and inclusion. Participant enquiries, survey results, operational reviews and stakeholder feedback are considered when planning future events. The event will continue to improve the way access information is brought together and communicated, while being transparent about the practical constraints of a large event delivered across public roads and temporary infrastructure.