NEW and upgraded bus shelters in Hervey Bay, Toogoom and Gundiah are set to deliver safer, more comfortable, and sun-smart waiting spaces for both students and passengers across the Fraser Coast.
The infrastructure improvements aim to enhance the usability and accessibility of public transport in regional communities while offering relief from Queensland’s often harsh weather conditions.
Fraser Coast Regional Council Roads and Transport spokesperson Denis Chapman said the works would include the construction of two brand new bus shelters outside Yarrilee State School on Scrub Hill Road, one new shelter on Kingfisher Parade in Toogoom, and a significantly upgraded bus stop facility on Netherby Road in Gundiah.
“These bus shelters are vital pieces of infrastructure that provide real benefits to the community,” Cr Chapman said.
“Whether it’s school children waiting for their morning bus or residents travelling to appointments, having a safe, shaded, and accessible place to wait makes a big difference—especially during hot or wet weather.”
In recent years, the Fraser Coast has experienced rising demand for improved public transport amenities, especially in growing suburbs and rural areas.
These upgrades respond directly to community feedback calling for safer, more inclusive waiting areas—particularly near schools and high-traffic routes.
Cr Chapman said construction was already progressing, with the concrete slab poured at Netherby Road, where the upgraded facility will be delivered during the school holidays.
“The Yarrilee State School bus shelters are also planned for completion during the school break, with works in Toogoom set to follow shortly after.”
The new and upgraded shelters will feature modern shade structures and seating designed for durability and comfort, accommodating a range of users including students, seniors, and those with mobility aids.
Additional improvements will include better footpath access and clearer signage to assist in navigation and timetable visibility.
Minister for Local Government Ann Leahy praised the project, highlighting the State Government’s broader commitment to improving infrastructure in regional areas through targeted grant programs.
“Our government is working to make regional communities more desirable places to live, work and relax, because thriving regional communities are critical for the future of our great State,” Minister Leahy said.
“Projects like this will not only help improve liveability and accessibility for local communities, while supporting jobs in rural and regional council areas.”
Cr Chapman said the $125,000 Hervey Bay and Toogoom project is being delivered by Council and is partially funded through the Queensland Government’s Passenger Transport Accessible Infrastructure and Works for Queensland funding programs.
The Gundiah bus stop upgrade is also being partly funded through the Passenger Transport Accessible Infrastructure Programme, while the Morris Road shelter at Toogoom is supported by the 2024–2027 Works for Queensland Programme.
“Upgrading bus stops across regional Queensland means better access to transport and more inclusive, connected communities,” Cr Chapman said.
Construction at Netherby Road is expected to be completed next month, while the Yarrilee School and Kingfisher Parade shelters are on track for delivery by June 2025, weather permitting.
Traffic management measures will be in place throughout the works to protect both the construction teams and the general public.
“We thank residents and road users for their patience and understanding while these essential upgrades take place,” Cr Chapman said.
“The end result will be safer, more accessible public transport infrastructure that benefits our whole community.”