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Subscriber only The Fraser Coast s population rate is expected to grow at a faster rate than Bundaberg s a new report reveals. Compiled by the State Government s statistician s office, the Queensland Regional Profiles report details projected population figures and reveals that unlike the 2016-21 model, which had Bundaberg s growth ahead, the Fraser Coast is expected to take the lead going forward. Fraser Coast councillor David Lee believes this only adds weight to the argument Bundaberg is no longer the appropriate place for the region s only Level 5 hospital and the site of the current Hervey Bay hospital is not going to be able to meet demand in the future.
POOR planning, a growing population and a focus on building Bundaberg s Level 5 hospital risks putting the future of Fraser Coast patients in jeopardy. This is the warning from Fraser Coast Councillor David Lee who says a background in high-level planning and health has raised red flags with Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service s current path. He believes there s cause to press pause on the current commitment to build a Level 5 hospital one and a half hours away amid fears it will distract from addressing the challenges on the Fraser Coast which, in the next decade, faces substantial healthcare, safety and capacity issues .