HERVEY Bay’s healthcare future has taken a significant step forward, with the Hervey Bay Hospital Expansion project reaching a major construction milestone: one of the largest concrete pours in the region’s history.

Over 12 hours, two high-capacity concrete pumps and 67 truckloads delivered 400 cubic metres of concrete, forming a slab atop the Emergency Department. 

This slab will support a new rooftop helipad, replacing the existing ground-level pad.

Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service (WBHHS) Chief Executive Debbie Carroll said the helipad marks a vital improvement to emergency services.

“Replacing our at-grade helipad with a new rooftop helipad will pave the way for quicker emergency transfers and better access to critical care for patients who need it most,” Ms Carroll said.

The slab will also become the roof for a soon-to-be-developed space on the second level of the Emergency Department.

“The slab will also serve as the new roof of the vacant space on the second level of our emergency department building, which will soon house a new medical ward and relocated intensive care unit,” Ms Carroll said.

“This milestone is about more than just concrete – it represents the progress we’re making toward strengthening our capacity to deliver timely, high-quality care to patients.

“We thank our contractor, Apollo Property Group, and sub-contractors and partners who helped ensure a successful pour, and we look forward to continuing momentum in the months ahead.”

WBHHS Executive Director Peter Heath highlighted the complexity of delivering a major pour within an operational hospital.

“The team had to overcome several logistical challenges, but the hard work, careful planning, and collaboration of our teams ensured everything went smoothly,” Mr Heath said.

Planning is also underway for new staff car parks, which will free up parking for patients and visitors. 

The expansion, delivered by Queensland contractor Apollo Property Group, remains on track for completion in 2026, weather permitting.