Does the Fraser Coast Lack Vision?
Over the decades, regional cities that embraced bold, ambitious projects have transformed into thriving hubs, boasting vibrant economies and attracting young families. These cities didn’t settle for the status quo—they invested in transformative infrastructure and bold ideas that created pride, opportunity, and lasting change. So where does the Fraser Coast stand? Sadly, we seem to be stuck in a cycle of playing it too safe. The last truly great community-led project was the Brolga Theatre. Since then, what have we done on a similar scale? A recent example of this hesitation was the near failure of the Council’s new library and admin centre, opposed by both our previous state members and even several Councillors. Without leadership willing to take risks, projects that could transform our region risk never seeing the light of day. But it’s not just our governments that need to step up. Community leaders and groups must also show vision, ambition, and a willingness to unite behind bold ideas. We need to rise above divisive NIMBYism and focus on what’s best for the region—not just for today, but for decades to come. Real change demands a shared commitment to the future and the courage to dream big. 2025 must be the year we turn the tide. Let’s demand leadership that looks 20, 30, even 50 years ahead and unites us behind transformative projects. The Fraser Coast can be more than beautiful—it can be a beacon of growth, innovation, and opportunity. Let’s embrace the bold, the visionary, and the future our region deserves.
Reimagining Hervey Bay: Infrastructure and innovation for a changing world
AS HERVEY Bay’s population ages, we stand at a pivotal economic crossroads. The world is changing rapidly, and we must change with it. Our infrastructure, education system, and urban landscape need a radical overhaul to attract a younger, more dynamic demographic and ensure our community thrives in the coming decades. Our education system must be redefined to cater to future jobs. Imagine a combined multi-university and TAFE campus right in the CBD. This hub of innovation and learning would not only provide cutting-edge education but also revitalize our accommodation and nightlife economy, turning Hervey Bay into a bustling, vibrant city that attracts and retains young talent. Our Esplanade, the jewel in Hervey Bay’s crown, also needs a transformation. It’s our main tourist attraction, but it must offer more to a wider range of age groups. Picture an Esplanade with a mix of family-friendly activities, adventure sports, and chic cafes and restaurants. This would not only draw more tourists but also make Hervey Bay a more exciting place to live. Infrastructure is the backbone of this vision. We need better transportation networks, modern healthcare facilities, and robust digital infrastructure to support new businesses and remote workers. But it’s not just about building more; it’s about building smart. We must create spaces that encourage community interaction, innovation, and economic growth. The time for bold ideas and decisive action is now. Hervey Bay must evolve to meet the demands of a changing world. This is our chance to create a vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous future for all. Are we ready to seize it? Published in the Hervey Bay Advertiser Interested in the Fraser Coast Property Industry? Join FCPIA Today | Click here to join Tagged 2024 Priorities, FCPIA, Hervey Bay advertiser, Hervey Bays Future, Youth,
Begin with the end in mind: the future of Hervey Bay | 30/5/24
RECENTLY, one of Australia’s leading demographers, Simon Kuestenmacher from The Demographics Group, visited Hervey Bay. His presentation made it clear that our town needs to change direction. Currently, Hervey Bay has an aging population with an average age over 51. Over the next 20 years, this population will require high levels of care. Our current healthcare sector is already understaffed, and this situation will worsen as our workforce ages. To address this impending crisis, we must attract a younger population to Hervey Bay. This means offering education opportunities and training to retain young people, ensuring they can cater to our future needs. Traditional housing models do not appeal to younger generations; they seek alternatives in medium-density housing, along with a lifestyle that includes entertainment and career opportunities. Changing our direction involves rethinking our infrastructure, lifestyle opportunities, and even the culture of our city. We need to create an environment where young people want to live, work, and raise their families. This means improving marketing and promotion efforts to highlight the benefits of living in Hervey Bay. Our civic leaders must urgently replan for the future, targeting specific sectors of the Australian population to move here. By developing the right infrastructure and fostering a vibrant, youthful community, we can ensure that Hervey Bay thrives. Knowing what we want our future to look like is the first step in making it a reality. Let’s begin with the end in mind and act now to secure a prosperous future for Hervey Bay. Looking for more details on Simon Kuestenmacher ? Click here FCPIA is your dedicated property voice for the Fraser Coast… Join TODAY Click Here to Register
Fraser Coast future: booming population demands bold planning | 2 May 2024
AS WE Navigate the post-COVID landscape, Fraser Coast is experiencing a transformative population boom. Pre-pandemic, our population stood at approximately 106,796. Fast forward just four years, and this number has surged to 118,505. With projections originally set for 130,706 by 2041, current trends suggest we could see numbers between 150,000 and 160,000 within 20 years. This rapid growth isn’t just a statistic; it’s a clarion call for urgent action. The average age in our community has increased from 48 to 51 years during the pandemic, indicating a shift towards an older demographic. This demographic shift requires us to rethink our housing strategy. Moving beyond traditional houses to more diverse living options that cater to an aging population. However, the most pressing challenge lies in our infrastructure. Current planning still relies on outdated pre-COVID growth figures, leaving essential services like health, roads, schools, sports, community facilities and town planning underprepared for the future. This oversight could significantly impact our quality of life and the economic vitality of the Fraser Coast. Moreover, we must address the exodus of our youth. As our brightest leave for opportunities elsewhere, our region risks stagnation. The recent decisions, such as the Scarness Caravan Park development, underscore a missed opportunity to create spaces that attract and retain young people. Blending local charm with modern attractions. It could have been a lagoon pool, nightlife and entertainment precinct, bustling with restaurants, parks and things to do for the younger generation. Instead we catered for the retired visitors. To secure a thriving future, we must embrace change. Innovate our approach to urban planning, and build a community that holds promise for all ages. The time to act is now, ensuring that Hervey Bay not only grows but thrives. Published in the Hervey Bay Advertiser 2 May 2024 Interested in the Fraser Coast Property Industry? Join FCPIA Today | Click here to join
Does the new Town Planning Scheme plan for AI? | 5 April 2024
AS THE Fraser Coast Regional Council gears up to unveil its town planning scheme in 2025, a pivotal opportunity looms on the horizon—an opportunity to embrace the transformative wave of artificial intelligence (AI) that is set to redefine our future. With the plan poised to chart the region’s course over the next two decades, the absence of a strategy to integrate AI into the fabric of our community could be a glaring oversight. AI’s impact on society extends far beyond the realms of employment and electric and autonomous vehicles; it promises to revolutionise the very essence of community needs and public infrastructure. The traditional paradigms of city planning and living are on the brink of obsolescence. In less than a decade, the failure to adapt to these changes could render our current models irrelevant. Consider the potential of AI to streamline traffic management, making our roads safer and more efficient for autonomous vehicles. Imagine smart buildings that not only reduce energy consumption but also adapt to the changing needs of their inhabitants. Reflect on the power of AI to enhance public services, from predictive healthcare to personalised education, thereby elevating the quality of life for all residents. Moreover, the housing market is on the cusp of a revolution. The future demands flexible living spaces that can accommodate home offices, virtual reality entertainment areas, and more. Reflecting the shifting priorities of a digitally native population. The Fraser Coast Regional Council stands at a crossroads. By integrating AI into the new town planning scheme, it can lead the region into a future where technology and humanity converge to create a more sustainable, efficient, and inclusive community. The time to act is now; the future waits for no one. Let’s not just plan for the next 20 years; let’s envision a future that embraces the full potential of AI, ensuring the Fraser Coast remains at the forefront of innovation and progress. Published in the Hervey Bay Advertiser 4 April 2024 Interested in the Fraser Coast Property Industry? Join FCPIA Today | Click here to join
How Hervey Bay’s property market shapes our community
IN THE HEART of Hervey Bay, the property market stands not just as a sector of our economy, but as the very lifeblood of our community.
07/02/2024 Are Internet Trolls holding Hervey Bay back?
IN HERVEY Bay, the presence of internet trolls on social media platforms like Facebook, who vocally criticise every development, poses a significant challenge. These individuals, who can be likened to the Muppets’ characters Waldorf and Statler, are not only vocal but their actions have real consequences. Their negative and misleading commentary can adversely affect property prices and the perception of developers, creating hesitancy among potential investors. This results in long-term impacts on property valuations and impedes the city’s growth and development. Ironically, many of these trolls benefit from the very developments they oppose, living in local subdivisions and utilizing shopping centres, medical facilities, and other amenities, all made available through developers. Their stance is comparable to conspiracy theorists who criticise technology while using it themselves. Notably, a few of the more prolific attackers leading this charge are some older men who have been retired for many, many years and are obviously not worried about securing any opportunities for the youth of the area. The adage “Money is like water; it finds the path of least resistance” aptly describes the situation. If development in Hervey Bay becomes too burdensome due to opposition, investors will simply move their funds to more welcoming cities, helping them to prosper and leaving Hervey Bay lagging behind. The solution lies in the hands of the silent majority. It’s time for them to speak up against this negativity and advocate for a prosperous future for Hervey Bay, ensuring job opportunities and activities that retain the younger generation. Politicians, too, must focus on the greater good rather than being swayed by a vocal minority. In this election year, it’s crucial to support candidates who promote positivity and growth for the future of Hervey Bay.