Early works have begun on the site of new $1.2 billion Bundaberg Hospital site.
Queensland Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, Yvette D’Ath was joined by local Bundaberg MP Tom Smith and said the early works marked the start of the biggest health investment the Wide Bay region had ever seen.
“Initial access to the new hospital site will be via an extension of Johanna Boulevard near Eggmolesse Street, within an already dedicated road corridor,” Minister D’Ath said.
“I’m pleased to announce that local contractor, RoadTek Wide Bay, will deliver these works to extend Johanna Boulevard.
“Motorists travelling in the area will start to see a hive of activity occurring in the coming months including clearing and earthworks to construct the new sealed access road.
“In parallel, the project team is also progressing the project through a Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) – an efficient, coordinated process used to assist the development of community infrastructure like hospitals and schools.”
The Minister said undertaking the works alongside the MID process will enable the main works contractor for the new hospital to hit the ground running, once appointed in the new year.
“The New Bundaberg Hospital will increase capacity and reduce the need for patients to travel outside the region for more specialist care, so more locals can receive care closer to home,” she said.
“Wide Bay residents can look forward to 121 extra beds as part of the new hospital – an increase in bed capacity of nearly 50%.”
Member for Bundaberg, Tom Smith said the whole of Bundaberg will be excited to see works starting on the New Bundaberg Hospital site.
“Delivering the new Bundaberg Hospital is a commitment that I made to the people of Bundaberg,” Mr Smith said.
“With the first works now underway, our community can see firsthand concrete beginning of that promise.
“From allocating the land, to securing the $1.2 billion investment, today is the day that we begin works on the largest infrastructure project in the history of the Wide Bay.
“The new hospital will undoubtedly deliver enormous health benefits through improved and expanded services, including an expanded emergency department, and enhanced medical, surgical and mental health services.
“Construction of the new hospital will also provide a huge boost for our local economy, creating approximately 2,887 jobs during construction.”
As a result of the site works, road users on Johanna Boulevard and Eggmolesse Street may experience changed traffic conditions, and are reminded to follow the direction of traffic control and signage.
The new hospital is expected to open in the second half of 2027.
