Burnie Little Penguin Habitat Expansion Little penguins living on the edge of West Park now have expanded habitat thanks to a partnership between the University of Tasmania and Friends of Burnie Penguins.Nine purpose built tunnels beneath the Coastal Pathway now connect the beach to new habitat at UTAS West Park. Hundreds of native plants have been established on the former car park, which has been fenced to protect the colony.
Just Cats Tasmania Expansion Just Cats is progressing a major facility upgrade after securing $425k in May 2025 for a new accredited cat management centre accommodating up to 70 cats. A separate intake and quarantine facility for around 300 cats is also planned to improve biosecurity. A new portable building arrived in Mar 2026, with internal fit-out.Aug: Landscaping request for plants, pots and every few dollars helps!
State Road Projects Road surface repairs: Massy-Greene Drive, between north and south Old Surrey Rd. 16-31 Aug 2026. 7.30 to 16.00.Electrical works: Bass Hwy, View Rd overpass to North Terrace. 26-29 Aug 2026 9:30am to 3pm.Mowing: Mount St, Atkins Dv to Old Surrey Rd, Romaine. Aug through to 04 Sep 2026 6am to 6 pm.
New Spirit of Tasmania IV and V The new Spirits are scheduled to commence operations late Oct 2026 increasing passenger and vehicle capacity, improved tourism, travel and freight links.Spirit V arrived in Hobart in June 2026 for final fit-out works, including participation in Dark Mofo events, before Geelong berthing trials at the new TT-Line terminal. In Aug Spirit IV will sail to Devonport for berthing trials.
Cradle Coast Future Energy Hub Established in 2019, the Hub supports collaboration as NW Tasmania’s clean energy sector expands. In Apr 2026, Local Power, Local Prosperity highlighted the need to maximise local jobs, procurement and community benefits. In Jul 2026, workforce housing pressures emerged as a key focus. Consultation is now open on a proposed Tasmanian Renewable Energy Code of Conduct until 13 Sep 2026.
Oakleigh Rail Underpass Barrier Upgrades Safety barrier upgrade work from 3-21 August at the Oakleigh rail underpass on the Bass Highway in Burnie to meet current safety standards. Works to replace barriers on both the Cooee-bound and Wivenhoe-bound approaches between Edwardes Street and Wilson Street. $1.5 million project is funded by the Federal government.
Berth 3 Gantry Port of Devonport In May 2026 the installation of the 740-tonne gantry superstructure at Devonport Terminal 3. Standing 27m high and 38m wide, the structure is secured by more than 1,000 bolts and will support four vehicle loading ramps for the new Spirit of Tasmania vessels. Delivered by BMD Group and project partners, testing is scheduled for August the terminal remains on track for its Oct 2026.
TasNetworks Powerline Upgrades A four-month program has been completed in August 2026 upgrading 156 powerline spans in NorthWest. The works included automated switching, upgraded fuse sites and modern pole configurations to strengthen network reliability, improve fault management and reduce outage impacts. More than 40 North West crew delivered the staged works, with outages coordinated to minimise disruption.
Dr Edi’s Barbershop Burnie Dr Edier Loaiza Maya, a GP who opened his first barbershop at Launceston’s Kmart complex in 2024, expanded to Burnie Plaza in Aug 2026, combining grooming with men’s health conversations. The concept blends his two professions built on trust and connection, with a future vision for access to medical support pathways, a one-stop men’s wellbeing experience.
Lake St Clair Radial Gates Hydro Tasmania completed the $1.9 million replacement of eight radial gates at St Clair Lagoon in Aug 2026. The gates were originally installed in the 1930s. The new gates feature stronger construction and improved seals and are designed to provide at least 80 years.Works were carefully managed within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, using a 70m crane to avoid entering the waterway.
Burnie Airport Departures Area Expansion Works to improve passenger comfort, are contained behind a temporary wall so flights, check-in and boarding continue as normal. The area has not been used by departing passengers since 2006. The upgrade follows QantasLink introducing larger 74-seat Q400 aircraft in March 2025, adding more than 6,000 seats annually on the Burnie-Melbourne route.
Marinus Link Project Updates Round 1 of 2026–27 Community Grants and Sponsorship Program for eligible not-for-profit organisations in Burnie, Central Coast and Waratah-Wynyard. Community Grants of up to $5k support projects aligned with the Sustainability Framework, while Sponsorships of up to $1k for General and $2k Events to help deliver local community, cultural, environmental, and wellbeing initiatives
Burnie Courts Complex Relocation Project The $86.5 mil complex at 100-106 Wilson Street will include a Supreme Court, two Magistrates Courts, a Family Court and shared courtroom. Designs by Xsquared Architects were released in Oct 2025.Batchelor Construction completed demolition in Jan 2026. Fairbrother contract awarded in May, with earthworks and site preparation completed in Jul. Piling and foundations are now commencing
TasPorts Port of Burnie Berth Upgrades A 280-tonne crane and the NBB Motivation barge arrived in July 2026 to support piling activities for the Berth 4 remediation works. The equipment will be used to strengthen the berth, improve resilience & extend its operational life, while enabling safe access to areas unavailable from land. Supported by BridgePro Engineering the project is part of ongoing investment with Strait Link.
TasNetworks' North West Transmission Developments (NWTD) The $10mil Bright Futures Fund closed its first round, with outcomes due in Sep 2026. In Aug Construction partner Genus is expanding its north-west operations, creating local business opportunities. Successful factory testing of high-voltage equipment in Jul, confirmed it is ready for shipment to Tas. In May 2026, $1.2bil CEFC funding secured will reduce the pricing impacts to customers
Edgar Dam wall strengthening Works began in Jan 2025. The $35 mil project strengthened the 1972 dam, which forms Lake Pedder and supplies around 40% of the Gordon Power Station’s water. Completed in Aug 2026, four months ahead of schedule, including a new buttress, crest wall and 60,000 tonnes of material, reducing earthquake risk from the nearby Lake Edgar Fault to a one-in-a-million event.
Burnie McDonald’s Rebuild Drive Thru will be closed Mon 27 - Fri 31 July.A $5M modernised restaurant will be built at the front of the block with a new dining area, outdoor terrace, McCafé and family PlayPlace. It is expected to create around 100 construction jobs. Approval granted in June 2025. Site preparations and demolition underway July 2026. The current restaurant will continue to operate during construction.
On The Run - Petrol Station Cooee The Viva Energy-owned OTR opened in Jul 2026. It fills a key gap for truck drivers between Detention River & Sassafras, providing fuel, food, drinks, toilets in one stop.The site features six fuel bowsers, two heavy-diesel bays, a 24-hour convenience store, parking and dual access from the Bass Hwy and Turrung St. After initial approvals in 2024, work began by Beardwood Construction late 2025.
Burnie Central Townhouse Renovation A major refurbishment was completed in July 2026 to enhance the dining and gaming facilities, building on accommodation upgrades completed in 2025. The works delivered a fresh new look with brand-new carpet, a redeveloped kitchen, renovated bar and bistro areas, and new furniture and fittings throughout. The staged refurbishment has created a modern, refreshed venue experience.
Brickport Road Sewage Pump Station Upgrade TasWater is upgrading the Brickport Road Sewage Pump Station to reduce odours, protect infrastructure and improve safety. From 21-24 July, residents may notice increased vehicle and contractor activity, with temporary traffic management in place to support safe site access. Construction starts in late August and is expected to finish later in 2026. The project includes a permanent odour control
Burnie Health Hub The $24 million transformation of the former UTAS Mooreville Road site into a modern health precinct continues.The Urgent Care Clinic and 24-hour pathology opened in Feb 2026, followed by Access-Able Physiotherapy, Alara Psychology and Park Grove Medical Centre. Women’s Legal Service and TAS IVF relocated to the precinct in July expanding specialist health and support services.
NBN Co Targeted Upgrade program From 1 July 2026, NBN Co expanded its Targeted Upgrade Program, making another 600,000 homes and businesses eligible for a free fibre upgrade from ageing copper connections, at no upfront cost, even without ordering a high-speed plan. Eligible customers should contact their internet provider to arrange the upgrade. Registering early is recommended to reduce installation waiting times.
Montello Primary School Upgrade Stage 2 of the $12.45 million redevelopment is progressing, with completion expected in late 2026. Works focus on new administration and reception facilities, expanded student support spaces, upgraded early childhood learning and outdoor play areas, improved accessibility through new ramps and a lift, safer drop-off and pick-up arrangements, and new private toilet cubicles.
Bass Strait Blue Economy Zone The offshore aquaculture trial, 12 km off Burnie, is testing open-ocean Atlantic salmon and kingfish farming. Backed by $13M from state and federal partners, infrastructure installed in May 2025. 15k salmon were stocked Aug 2025, with 15k kingfish planned for Dec 2026.A July 2026 Community Sentiment Survey is seeking feedback from ocean users on their experiences, observations and views of trial
Atkins Drive Romaine Homes Tasmania Development Construction has begun on a social and affordable housing development at Atkins Drive, Romaine. Approved Oct 2025, completion is expected mid-2027. Beardwood Pty Ltd commenced works in late Jun 2026. The development will deliver 18 two-storey, two-bedroom units, Designed with comfort, energy efficiency, safety & accessibility in mind, the homes will cater to people of all ages and abilities.
Wombat Ward Family Room The North West Regional Hospital has a new family entertainment space from July 2026, funded through the inaugural Rocky Cape Charity Ride and sponsors including major sponsor Saputo. The fundraising effort raised $140k for adult sleeper chairs, cots and entertainment resources. A mural by Burnie artist Amy Morrow features farm animals and video game references, creating a welcoming space.
Secret Serenity Cafe Renovation Secret Buda has entered an exciting new chapter under owners Megan and Carmehn, the former café manager, bringing a familiar face and continuity. Following a temporary closure, it reopened on 8 July 2026, revealing a renovated kitchen, new tables and chairs, floors, paint, and custom cabinetry by Rhys at RFBuild and Peter Dutton Joinery.
Vie Finance & Insurance opens Wivenhoe office Construction of the new purpose-built office in Wivenhoe was approved in 2023. Thomas Bennett Building Pty Ltd commenced construction in late 2025.The new commercial development represents a positive local investment, delivering a modern office facility to support the business’s relocation and expansion. Opened in July 2026, adding to Wivenhoe’s growing commercial precinct.
TasRail level crossing safety technology To improve driver awareness and reduce crash risk, with the system live from July 2026. The works build on the $5 million Regional Level Crossing Upgrade Fund secured in 2025.Delivering five active crossing upgrades, three augmented stop sign installations, three yellow box markings at queuing hotspots, and upgrading the Oonah Road crossing at Highclere with flashing lights and bells.
Bunnings Burnie Carpark Resurfacing Works Drainage upgrades and carpark resurfacing have recently taken place at the Bunnings Burnie 1-5 Reeves Street, South Burnie as part of a continued investment in maintenance. These overnight construction works were completed by local teams, including Hardings Group, to fix drainage issues and smooth out the parking surface.
Basslink becomes a regulated interconnector Basslink, the 370km, 500MW electricity interconnector between Tasmania and Victoria, became operational in 2006. In Feb 2026, the Australian Energy Regulator approved APA Group’s pricing, with Basslink becoming a regulated interconnector from 1 Jul. Hydro Tasmania welcomed the move, supporting energy security, two-way energy flows and greater reliability and price certainty for consumers.
UTAS yarning circle In June 2026, work was completed to upgrade the University of Tasmania’s Riawunna cultural space at West Park, including construction of a new yarning circle. The project delivers a culturally significant outdoor gathering place designed to support storytelling, learning, and community connection, strengthening the role of the site as a shared space for engagement and cultural practice.
TasNetworks Drone Inspections TasNetworks drone inspection program across Heybridge, Sulphur Creek, Acton, Burnie, Downlands, Hillcrest, Montello, Romaine, Shorewell, Upper, Mooreville during July, operating Monday to Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm. These inspections help identify maintenance needs on powerlines, reducing the risk of unplanned outages and bushfires. Conducted by locally based CASA accredited Fulcrum Robotics
King Island - Dolphin Tungsten Mine Turnaround Group 6 Metals faced an uncertain future just a couple of years ago, Dale Elphinstone has backed the operation, believing not only in the resource itself, but in the people, the jobs and the future it can create.In Jun quarter 2026 underground mining has resumed on King Island for the first time in decades, the company has returned to strong financial momentum, and confidence has been restored.
Pentarch Logistics Wood Optimisation Hub Progressing a major upgrade of its South Burnie woodchip mill into a Wood Optimisation Hub. The facility will scan logs for sawmilling potential before chipping, targeting annual processing of 60,000m³ of pallet-grade lumber while maintaining current chip production. Expected to create 60 jobs, following community consultation May 2025 EPA approval occurred May 2026, then Council approval Jun.
A new Woolworths is coming to South Burnie! The $20 million Woolworths South Burnie redevelopment on the former Motors site is progressing, with site clearing commencing in June 2026. The project will deliver a 4,274m² supermarket, direct-to-boot facilities and 187 car parking spaces, plus supporting café/food and retail tenancies.Access will be improved from Reeves Street, Marine Terrace and Hopkinson Street including a new roundabout
UTAS acquired Wellers Inn The University of Tasmania purchased the former motel on Queen st in June 2026 as part of its Cradle Coast student housing expansion strategy. The site will be refurbished and integrated into UTAS’s Burnie accommodation network, supporting growing enrolments and easing regional housing pressure. This continues UTAS’s approach of converting underused hotels into student housing across Tasmania
Savus Saunas expands to Burnie Waterfront Savu Saunas is expanding with a sauna at West Beach open in June 2026. Launched in Cooee in 2025, the business has grown with rising demand for cold-water therapy. Operated by Brad McDonald, the converted shipping container saunas offer 50-minute public sessions that combine traditional sauna use with ocean plunges, an ideal location at Burnie’s waterfront for capturing growing wellness tourism.
TIA Tree Planting - Natural Capital Accounting Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture with support from Dairy Australia, and in partnership with Cradle Coast NRM, has planted 400 trees at its Elliott Dairy Research Facility. The new shelterbelt will provide shade, protect paddocks, and reduce winter wind exposure, supporting livestock welfare and pasture resilience. The project forms part of the On-farm Natural Capital Accounting Demonstration
Upper Burnie (Mount St) Fuel Station 189–193 Mount St, is being redeveloped into an unmanned 24-hour fuel station after demolition of a former dental clinic and childcare centre. The project includes six bowsers (serving 12 vehicles), a 2.1m fence and low-spill LED lighting. Led by Prime Design, it received development approval in March 2025. Demolition and site clearance began in April 2026, with civil, foundation works underway
North West Support School Redevelopment The Burnie campus is being redeveloped under a $62.15m program, delivering modern learning facilities, specialised support spaces and a hydrotherapy pool. 6TY was appointed architect in Apr 2025. In May 2026, draft concept plans and artist impressions were released for community feedback. Next steps: Design development of the approved master plan incorporating feedback in readiness for tendering
Tasmania’s longest rail tunnel upgrade A $119.6mil major upgrade of the 955m Rhyndaston Tunnel, a key part of the state’s rail network since the 1870s, was completed in June 2026Working around active train services, local contractors including Shaw Contracting, quarries and steel galvanisers installed heavy-duty track at up to just 20m per day. The project improves freight reliability and strengthens the corridor from Burnie Port.
HDA and Elphinstone partner on Redback hull production LAND 400 Phase 3: Elphinstone Pty Ltd won a $90m contract from Hanwha Defence Australia to build hulls for 129 Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicles in Wynyard, backing 95 jobs. Following the Feb 2026 debut of the first Australian-made AS9 Huntsman vehicles featuring Tasmanian parts, one successfully completed live-fire testing at Puckapunyal on June 4 during the Army's first operator course.
Mount St Upper Burnie Childcare Development A new two-storey childcare centre at 368–370 Mount Street, Upper Burnie is under construction, providing long day care and kindergarten services for up to 70 children.The centre will include four learning rooms, outdoor play areas and parking for staff and parents. The building structure has been erected, roof framing is in place and internal wall framing is progressing.
Dismal Swamp Tourism Redevelopment Supported by a $12.5 million Australian Government investment announced in July 2024. Skyscape is managing project delivery of remediation of the Tarkine 624-hectare dolomite sinkhole ecosystem, restoring access to the 2.1 km boardwalk in June 2026. The Tasmanian Government has now begun market sounding to attract private operators and investors for the premium nature-based tourism destination.
Elementos Cleveland Tin Project 80 km south-west of Burnie, is exploring copper, gold, silver and critical minerals including tungsten and fluorite. Drilling commenced Mar 2025, backed by $5M from Metals X. In Feb 2026, a 100% increase in tungsten Mineral Resource Estimate. Jun a 3D LiDAR drone survey, geotechnical and metallurgical test work, assessing rubidium and fluorspar potential.Next is a Scoping Study method design.
Hellyers Road - Distillers Choice Room The new Distillers’ Choice Room launched May 2026 with its “Direct from the Cask” unique tourism experience, featuring guided tastings, whisky masterclasses and personalised bottlings from hand-selected barrels, including some of Tasmania’s oldest whisky. After 12 months of development, the premium tourism offering is expected to boost Burnie’s visitor economy and whisky tourism appeal.
Tasrail Bulk Minerals Export Facility (BMEF) expansion Having fully-commissioned the new shiploader on the Port of Burnie, TasRail is now advancing the $18 million expansion. Funded by the Australian Government, this project aims to boost the BMEF’s storage capacity by approximately 15%. Preliminary works have started, on the wharf reclaim, gallery conveyors with completion expected in late 2027-28 improving supply-chain efficiency for Hampshire.
De Bruyn’s Transport new A-double Freight Set A new Volvo FH600 and Barker trailers, A-double freight set has been introduced, enhancing freight efficiency between Burnie and Bell Bay. This strengthens heavy freight capabilities, supporting vital sectors like mining, aquaculture, and agriculture. Since acquiring Bass Strait Transport in 2019, they have expanded into Victoria, operating a fleet of 180 trucks and employing 350 staff.
Cement Australia’s Railton Kiln Upgrade $106M upgrade is underway, supported by $52.9M in federal funding. The project will cut emissions by replacing more than 110k tonnes of coal with alternative fuels.Main works are occurring during a 6-week shutdown, operational by third quarter 2026. The retrofit replaces old fans and equipment to allow the kiln to handle 74k tonnes of sustainable wood waste and 6k tonnes of shredded tyres /year.
Poatina Power Station Upgrades A $3.5m upgrade at the 1965 era Poatina Power Station has delivered a new main building, warehouse, EV charging and an above-ground control room, opened in Sept 2025. The works support a broader $200m program to refurbish all six turbines, ensuring long-term reliability for Tasmania’s energy system. Work began in May 2024, the first turbine is complete and work on the second started May 2026