Massive crane installed to help build community hub

Construction of the $108.7 million Hervey Bay City Centre community hub is full steam ahead, with a new crane installed this week.

The flat top tower crane is 45 metres tall with a 70-metre arm, and will be used to help move heavy materials around during construction of the new five storey building on the corner of Main Street and Torquay Road in Pialba.

The project, which is supported by $40 million from the Australian Government, and additional funding from Fraser Coast Regional Council, is now six months into what will be a two-and-a-half-year build – due for completion in mid-2026.

The new community hub will include a Disaster Resilience Centre, an expanded library over two levels, a new public plaza, and flexible spaces for meetings and events.

More than three-quarters of this development will be community space, with the new hub to be the community’s one-stop spot for learning, socialising and accessing council services.

The project is funded through the Hinkler Regional Deal - a partnership between the Australian Government, Fraser Coast Regional Council and Bundaberg Regional Council that seeks to build on the area’s strengths to provide economic growth and long-term employment.

More details on the project is available on Council’s Engagement Hub website. 

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP:

“With this massive crane now in place, the Fraser Coast region is one step closer to accessing multi-purpose spaces and high-quality infrastructure for a range of workshops and community events.

“We’re investing $40 million in this project, because it’s supporting local jobs and trades businesses during construction, and will continue to unlock a range of social and economic opportunities in the Fraser Coast region once complete." 

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm:

“It’s great to see construction progressing on this major development in the Fraser Coast region, which is supporting local jobs and injecting millions into the Hervey Bay economy.

“This centre will have long-term benefits for one of Queensland’s fastest growing regions, from boosting community engagement, supporting local businesses to grow and encouraging more visitors to spend time in the heart of town."

Quotes attributable to Fraser Coast Regional Councillor, Daniel Sanderson: 

“National construction company Hansen Yuncken began work on the new Hervey Bay City Centre community hub in January, and the project has now reached a significant milestone with the installation of the crane in the middle of the site.

“With an expanded library spanning two levels, an outdoor public plaza and versatile community spaces that can be booked day and night, the new community hub will become a focal point for both residents and Council operations.

“This transformational project for Hervey Bay will revitalise the Hervey Bay city centre, create jobs and drive business investment."