Effective management of complex and dynamic waterways is considerably improved by strategic data collection and the use of this data to enhance understanding. On the Gold Coast, the network of waterways is large and complex and the first stage of a strategic data collection program has been developed and implemented, involving the deployment of miniaturised tide gauges at nine key locations. The program provides tidal levels delivered on-line in near real-time allowing for safe use of the waterways by the community. Over time the program will provide further benefits through collection of long-term datasets allowing investigation of tidal anomalies, inundation from storm surge and flood events and optimisation, assessment and monitoring of dredging programs. The main purpose of the program data output is for assimilation into, and verification of, hydrodynamic models which will enhance understanding of the waterways system and increase the capacity of sediment transport models to assess shoaling behaviour and improve the resilience of the Gold Coast managed waterways.