CPB Contractors has won the tender for stage one of the new Bundaberg Hospital build.
The $1.2 billion project will include 121 new beds across a range of services such as intensive care, coronary, medical, surgical, paediatric, rehabilitation and mental health units.
It will also have an expanded emergency department and enhanced clinical support services.
Design and enabling works will continue this year ahead of major construction in 2024.
The new Bundaberg Hospital is expected to be completed in the second half of 2027, weather and construction conditions permitting.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk says it’s big news for Bundy residents.
“This new hospital will expand capacity in the Wide Bay Region while improving the availability of surgical, paediatric and mental health facilities for those who need it,” she says.
“But this investment isn’t just about bricks and mortar – it’s about creating more frontline nurse, doctor and allied health jobs for those who live and work in the region, while providing the care Queenslanders need.”
Member for Bundaberg Tom Smith says it’s a landmark day for the project.
“Putting a name to the company tasked with building this $1.2 billion commitment, puts to bed any doubt that we would deliver on our election promise to build Bundaberg’s brand-new Hospital,” he says.
“When completed, the new hospital will not only provide the highest quality of healthcare with additional services and strengthened university partnerships, it will also be one of the largest sites for creation of jobs and employment for Bundy locals.”
Not everyone is happy about the news though, with the Member for Burnett accusing MP Tom Smith of breaking election promises.
“He promised the people of Bundaberg before the last election a level 5 hospital,” says MP Stephen Bennett.
“He also put it in writing on Facebook on 26th August 2020.
The post has since been deleted. That tells you everything you need to know about Tom Smith.
This is another example of the chaos and crisis within the Palaszczuk Labor Government.”
Mr Smith has quickly shut down the allegations saying the hospital will be a level 5.