Timeline to completion of new Bundaberg Hospital

Work is underway on the new $1.2billion Bundaberg Hospital, with the construction expected to generate almost 3000 jobs over the next three years.

Renders of the new Bundaberg Hospital and what it will look like when it is finished in 2027.

Work is underway on the new $1.2billion Bundaberg Hospital, with the construction expected to generate almost 3000 jobs over the next three years.

A timeline for the project estimates construction to be fully underway this year (2024), and to be completed by late 2027, after early works started in May, with a visit and photo opportunity with high ranking Qld Health officials, Premier Steven Miles, Health Minister Shannon Fentiman and Bundaberg state Labor MP Tom Smith.

Start date: December 2022, Early works to build new access road to the new site began

Detailed design complete: Mid-2024

Early works start onsite: May 2024

Main construction starts: 2024, subject to relevant environmental approvals

Finish date: Late 2027, approvals, weather and building conditions permitting

Renders of the new Bundaberg Hospital and what it will look like when it is finished in 2027.

A Wide Bay Hospital and Health District spokesperson said on Wednesday construction works on the new Bundaberg Hospital site were forging ahead, with bulk earthworks due to get underway this month, weather permitting.

“About 50,000 cubic metres of fill from a local quarry – the equivalent of about 20 Olympic swimming pools – will be delivered to site to bring the surface to a suitable level and height,” they said.

“Locals will notice more trucks and workers in the vicinity of the new hospital site once bulk earthworks are underway, which may result in occasional short travel delays.

“Detailed design for the project is also nearing completion. CPB Contractors must deliver a value for money guaranteed price for the project before the main building works begin in stage two.”

In July 2023, the state government announced CPB Contractors as the successful managing contractor for stage one of the project, responsible for completing the detailed design.

New artist impressions have provided a glimpse into what the new hospital may look like.

Project architects have drawn inspiration from the surrounding natural environment to provide a welcoming atmosphere for patients, their families and carers and staff.

The design concept, ‘Stories of the Land,’ emphasises connections to the natural environment and heritage, and centres around three themes: Water, Geology, and Land. The Burnett River, creeks, and the Great Barrier Reef’s southern tip symbolise life, renewal, and the connection between water and health.

The grounding textures of the local geology, characterised by its volcanic coastlines and productive agricultural soil, form the bedrock of the new health precinct.

This evokes a sense of solidity and fosters a connection to Country. The region’s agricultural patchwork, ‘tastiest food bowl’ status, and diverse flora and fauna are woven into the architectural narrative, honouring the land’s evolving tapestry and integrating modern agriculture with Indigenous landscapes.

Once completed, parts of the old Bundaberg Hospital will continue to be used for specialist appointments and day health services that aren’t urgent.

Oral health and cancer care patients will continue to use the centre on Hope Street. All acute and overnight services will move to the new hospital.

For more information about the new Bundaberg Hospital project, please visit HERE.