Hervey Bay’s next retail precinct slated for Kawungan

A new retail development waiting on approval from the Fraser Coast Council is expected to take a year to complete.

Artist impression (bloc design) of the proposed convenience centre at 158 Main St, Kawungan.

Main Street in Kawungan is slated to be one of Hervey Bay’s next emerging commercial precincts, with a series of retail developments preparing to break ground over the next 12 months.

A three building proposed development is waiting on approval from the Fraser Coast Regional Council at 158 Main St.

Once approved, the project will be lead by Brisbane developer, Anthony Parisi, and is estimated to be in construction for the next year.

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“On one side of the lot, there will be two drive-through buildings, and on the other, a 250sq m building which could hold another three tenancies,” Mr Parisi said.

In between the buildings, there will be a car park, which according to the development proposal document, is intended to provide high levels of exposure and traffic access for patrons on site.

“Efficient wheelchair access is very important to ensure that anybody with a disability can access the site.”

Artist impression (bloc design) of proposed convenience centre, located at 158 Main St, Kawungan.

Mr Parisi said there had already been several interested parties, and multiple inquiries in terms of leasing the buildings.

Now estimated to be valued around $2 million, the 3934sq m vacant lot was bought in September 2021 for $1.1 million by Cavon Pty Ltd.

Once operational and leased out, the development will contribute to Hervey Bay’s economy and provide at least 30-40 job openings.

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“What’s great about location is how new retail chains are popping up around the area,” Mr Parisi said.

“Stores like Anaconda, Spotlight, World Gym and Carl's Junior are already in development on Main Street. With more chains coming to Hervey Bay, it will attract more people to the area.”

Waiting on council approval for retail developments can take several months, but Mr Parisi is optimistic that the site will be operational by late 2024.