Construction of the $108.7 million Hervey Bay Community Hub is now one third complete.
The Hub, which is being jointly funded by Fraser Coast Regional Council and the Federal Government, will feature an expanded two-level library, Council Administration Centre, Disaster Resilience Centre, public plaza, and flexible spaces for community events.
The new library will be double the current library’s size to cater for the region’s growing population and to boost education outcomes, with the outdoor plaza to support markets and live music.
The project is being delivered as part of the Hinkler Regional Deal, with $40 million from the Australian Government and additional funding from Council.
“Libraries are vitally important public spaces, where people can meet, discover new interests and expand their horizons. This project is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform our city centre, create jobs and drive business investment,” said Mayor, George Seymour.
“Bringing hundreds of workers into the city centre will boost nearby businesses and mean better staff collaboration, which ultimately means more efficient services for the community.
“More than three-quarters of the development will be community space with the new hub to be the community’s one-stop spot for learning, socialising and accessing Council services.”
National construction company, Hansen Yuncken, is delivering the project and has engaged several local companies for services including hydraulic works, scaffolding, and earthworks.
Construction on the five-storey building, located at the corner of Main Street and Torquay Road in Pialba, began in January and is on schedule for completion by mid-2026.
“There has been considerable progress this year, with 93 foundation piles and 371 basement wall piles constructed. The bulk excavation works were also completed, removing over 8,600 cubic metres of material,” said Councillor, Denis Chapman.
“The basement and ground floor slabs have been poured and preparation works are underway for the level one slab. A 45-metre tall crane – now named ‘Hercules’ after a Name the Crane competition – was installed mid-year to help move heavy materials around during construction.
“We expect 2025 to be a similarly busy year as the building takes shape,” he said.
