$2 billion South Beach estate revival sparks debate in Elliott Heads

A decade-old plan for a 3000-home community near Bundaberg is back on the cards with public meetings set to be held. VOTE IN OUR POLL.

South Beach Elliott Heads entry impression.

A dormant mega development which would transform Elliot Heads is back in the spotlight.

The Bundaberg Regional Council is calling for community feedback on a proposed Local Area Plan for Elliott Heads, as it looks to address longstanding development challenges and future growth pressures.

The plan focuses on land within the Emerging Community zone, which has been earmarked for development for more than a decade.

A significant portion of this land is subject to the preliminary approval for the South Beach Estate — a $2 billion master planned residential community initially approved in August 2013.

The South Beach development was intended to provide 3200 dwellings including a 3.7ha village centre which would include a supermarket, medical centre, tavern, open space, and childcare centre, along with the promise of creating 3000 permanent jobs.

The estate is one of the last oceanfront projects on the 20km coast strip from Elliott Heads to Coral Cove, Bargara and Burnett Heads.
However, despite early enthusiasm and strong pre-sale interest reported in 2020, the development has faced repeated delays due to cost-prohibitive obligations imposed by the original infrastructure agreement.

The project has been met with mixed reactions from the community over the years.
In 2019, NewsMail readers were divided, with some seeing the economic benefits and others fearing Elliott Heads would lose its small-town charm and become overdeveloped like Noosa or the Gold Coast.
Concerns were also raised about the affordability of the homes and the potential lack of buyers.

Divisional councillor Carmen McEneany said the updated Local Area Plan was vital for Elliott Heads’ future.

South Beach Elliott Heads park impression.

“Elliott Heads has many draw cards from its picturesque coastline and riverfront, a patrolled beach, family-friendly infrastructure, newly revitalised foreshore parkland and a primary school,” Cr McEneany said.
“But it currently lacks the necessary infrastructure to cater to anticipated growth.

“Our region has experienced rapid population growth in recent years, and we know our coastal townships are much sought-after.”
She also said the council wanted to ensure growth and development could take place in a sustainable and logical manner with the appropriate infrastructure and services in place while protecting its existing features and the environment.

South Beach Elliott Heads aerial view.

The proposed Local Area Plan aims to provide more contemporary land use and infrastructure planning and address ongoing development pressures. It also seeks to establish a more straightforward planning framework for the area.

Community members can view the draft planning scheme policy and provide feedback on the council’s project page.
Two drop-in sessions will be held at Elliott Heads Hall:

Thursday, 13 March 2025 – 3pm to 6pm
Monday, 17 March 2025 – 3pm to 6pm

Originally published as $2 billion South Beach estate revival sparks debate in Elliott Heads