Swap the office for the ocean this May

Published on 09 April 2026

Local small businesses, freelancers and remote workers are being invited to swap their usual office for a workspace by the water, with two unique pop-up co-working events coming to the Fraser Coast in May.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the Business by the River and Business at the Beach events would transform two iconic locations into short-term co-working spaces as part of Queensland Small Business Month.

“More people than ever are running businesses from home or working remotely, and these events are a chance to try something different while connecting with other local professionals,” he said.

“Instead of working from your kitchen table or home office, you could be answering emails with views of the Mary River at the Brolga Theatre or the ocean at the Hervey Bay Surf Life Saving Club.”

Cr Seymour said the events would also provide opportunities for business owners to build their skills and networks.

“Alongside the co-working spaces, there will be free workshops, mentoring sessions and networking opportunities to help local businesses learn, connect and grow,” he said.

“This initiative also allows Council to test demand for more flexible co-working options in the region while continuing to support our local small business community.”

Cr Seymour said the events would highlight the Fraser Coast’s growing reputation as a lifestyle destination that also supports business and innovation.

“The Fraser Coast isn’t just a great place to live – it’s also a great place to build a business,” he said.

“These events showcase the lifestyle advantages of our region while creating opportunities for entrepreneurs, freelancers and small businesses to collaborate and learn from each other.”

The Business by the River event will be held at the Brolga Theatre in Maryborough on 13 and 14 May, followed by Business at the Beach at the Hervey Bay Surf Life Saving Club on 20 and 21 May.

Participants are encouraged to bring their laptop and work as they normally would, while also taking part in optional business workshops, mentoring sessions and networking activities across the two days.

Local businesses are also welcome to host team meetings at the events and take advantage of the professional development opportunities on offer.

To find out more or register your interest, visit Council’s website at https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/work-by-the-water or contact economic.development@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

This Queensland Small Business Month event is proudly supported by the Queensland Government.

Council also thanks Bendigo Bank and Regional Development Australia Wide Bay Burnett for their sponsorship as activation partners for the event.