Shared workspace trial: A new program testing people's interest in outdoor co-working spaces will be trialled on the Fraser Coast next month. It's part of an initiative to see if business owners and remote employees would use shared working spaces in Hervey Bay and Maryborough.The program will also include free skills workshops, mentoring sessions and networking events as part of Queensland Small Business Month. Mayor George Seymour says he will consider making co-working spaces permanent if the trial is successful.
Image credit: ABC Wide Bay/Olivia Nunes-Malek
Fatal crash under investigation: A man has died following a single-vehicle traffic crash in the Gympie region. Police were called to the Bruce Highway near Gunalda around 7:45pm on Monday after reports a vehicle had left the road and hit a tree. The driver, a 38-year-old Glenwood man, died at the scene. The Forensic Crash Unit is continuing investigations and anyone with relevant vision is urged to contact police.
Assistance boost after Bundaberg floods: Disaster Recovery Grants have been doubled for small businesses in the Bundaberg region affected by the recent floods. The Small Business Minister Steve Minnikin says the Exeptional Disaster Assistance grants have been increased from $25,000 to $50,000. Mr Minnikin says the state and federal assistance gives some reassurance to affected businesses.
New fire station for Biggenden: Work is underway on a new Rural Fire Brigade station in Biggenden. The Queensland government says the new facility will serve as a shared operational hub for multiple brigades. The Member for Callide Bryson Head says it's a significant commitment. Mr Head says the $800,000 facility will also give rural firefighters a central, safe place to keep equipment.
Tragic end to search for missing man: Police are investigating the death of a man who had been reported missing last week. Police say the man had been travelling from Sarina to Gympie but was believed to have been on foot in Bundaberg. He was found dead in bushland off Johnston Street in Bundaberg on Sunday morning. Chief Inspector Grant Marcus says police will prepare a report for the coroner. Inspector Marcus says it's thought the death may have been the result of a tragic accident.