Hervey Bay Esplanade resort appeal resolved
Published on 01 May 2026
Fraser Coast Regional Council notes that the Planning and Environment Court has today finalised the appeal about the proposed Hervey Bay Esplanade resort development, approving it subject to conditions.
The proposed development is for a resort on the Esplanade at Torquay, including a five-star hotel, residential apartments, and supporting facilities such as shops and dining.
The appeal followed Council’s decision in July 2024 to approve the project. The appeal was lodged by the Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland, Fraser Coast Branch. Under Queensland’s planning laws, submitters have the right to ask the Court to review a decision.
During the appeal process, the parties participated in mediation and expert review. This led to changes agreed by all parties.
As approved by the Court, key changes include:
- A reduction in height, with the residential tower reduced from 18 storeys to 16 storeys, and the hotel tower reduced from 18 storeys to 12 storeys;
- Changes to the building design; and
- Updated and more detailed lighting conditions to reduce impacts on the surrounding environment.
The development will still include a five-star hotel, apartments and supporting facilities. This means the project will still deliver the same core uses approved by Council in 2024.
The Court’s decision reflects an agreed outcome between the parties to the appeal.
Once final orders are issued, the full development approval, including plans and conditions, will be made publicly available on the Planning and Development Online portal on Council’s website- https://pdonline.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/
The next stage of the project will involve detailed design and construction approvals, such as operational works, building approvals and infrastructure works.
As this matter has now been decided by the Court, Council will not be providing further comment on the appeal. Questions about the development should be directed to the applicant.