One of the largest health infrastructure projects in Mackay’s history is underway, with the release of the new masterplan for the Mackay Base Hospital.
The bold new masterplan revealed a 15-year roadmap to completely rebuild and expand the hospital, meeting the fast-growing healthcare needs of the regional community.
Stage 1 of the expansion will deliver:
- At least 128 new overnight beds
- Expanded emergency, surgical and endoscopy services
- New maternity, birthing and women's health unit
- Enhanced paediatric and neonatal services.
- More than 1,000 new car parks
- A rooftop helipad
Health Infrastructure Queensland Executive Director for Regional and Rural Delivery Troy Kenny said the masterplan created a 15-year roadmap to grow health infrastructure ahead of the region’s population growth.
“The masterplan directly addresses both current service needs and future healthcare delivery, ensuring Mackay residents continue receiving the best possible care,” Mr Kenny said.
We are focused on enhancing service delivery, including maternity and endoscopy, an expanded emergency department, adding more car parks, and a new rooftop helipad.
“Once finished, the Mackay Base Hospital will be a modern facility, ready to meet demand.”
Principal Project Officer Kayla Nel has worked for Queensland Health for almost 20 years, including 16 years at the Mackay Base Hospital.
Ms Nel said she’s enjoyed every moment working on the expansion and liaising with the teams to see how local services function.
“We're working closely with clinicians, support staff and services across the hospital to make sure the expansion is designed to meet the needs of our community for many years to come,” she said.
“I’m very excited to build something that will deliver for our patients and contribute to the community’s future healthcare needs.”
Local Project Manager Lisa Heard said she was proud to help deliver a modern health facility that would shape future healthcare in the Mackay region.
Drawing on her local experience, she helps to coordinate and speak to key stakeholders to ensure the new spaces are fit for purpose.
“The expansion will transform care for our whole community,” Ms Heard said.
Lisa has been working closely with BMA CQ Rescue and the Mackay Regional Council to recommission the on-site helipad, restoring direct helicopter transfers for critically ill and injured patients.
“By working closely with BMA CQ Rescue and the council to relaunch our helipad, we are right on the verge of opening a safe landing pad that puts patients first.”
Main construction works will start in 2027, with all upgrades under Stage 1 delivered by 2030.
More information about the Mackay Hospital Expansion is available here.