Hervey Bay’s esplanade, calm beaches, Urangan Pier and WetSide Water Park are assets most cities would envy. Families stroll, cyclists roll, and every winter the whales put us on the map. But look at our peers: Cairns built a lagoon-led precinct that anchors its visitor economy; Townsville’s Strand remains a multi-generational magnet for play, exercise and events; Yeppoon’s free lagoon and amphitheatre rebranded the town almost overnight; Airlie Beach rebuilt with markets, a foreshore stage and a true day-into-night vibe.
So, a fair question: are we getting left behind—especially on youth appeal and the evening economy?
What we do well: safe, scenic movement (walk/cycle), family-friendly parks, and an authentic village character tied to nature. What we can do better: deliver a signature, all-ages drawcard (lagoon or equivalent); program regular markets, music and pop-up sport to keep people on the foreshore after sunset; lift wayfinding, lighting and public art; expand shaded play, skate and active zones (pump track, outdoor courts, learn-to-ride loops); and curate a waterfront dining spine that hums year-round.
Why this matters now: our older population rightly drives strong demand for health services—about 21% of local jobs are in health and care—but that makes attracting younger workers and young families mission-critical. To staff hospitals, clinics, schools, hospitality and tech, we must offer the lifestyle infrastructure they choose: lively public spaces, free recreation, events, and places to gather after work.
My view: we don’t need another plan—we need a mindset change. Let’s move from “protect and preserve only” to “protect and activate.” Back one catalytic project, say yes to small weekly activations, and hold ourselves to a higher standard of cleanliness, lighting, and maintenance. If we want youth, skills and investment, our foreshore must signal momentum: energy after dark, things to do every weekend, and a hero attraction that says “stay another day.”
In five years, will our esplanade still be lovely—or truly unforgettable to the next generation we need to attract and keep? That choice starts with our mindset.
