Bundaberg 1945 - 1980

The Post-War Years

In 1945, the Bundaberg population had reached 15,000. Post War shortages and uncertainties inhibited growth in Bundaberg for a number of years, with the population growing very slowly. New Mayor E.J.Walsh, promised growth with a 3 point plan involving water conservation, irrigation and flood prevention, adequate transport facilities including an improved harbour, and a plan for new government buildings in the district. 1956 - 58 saw the commencement and completion of the much-needed Port of Bundaberg and bulk sugar terminal, open in September 1958. A mid 1950's building boom saw the City precinct between Woondooma, Bourbong, Quay, Barolin and Maryborough Streets subject to change and development. By 1957, the population had grown to 21,000, and while there was still a strong rural bias, Bundaberg became increasingly industrialized.

Bundaberg in the 60's

In 1962 the Bundaberg Civic Centre was opened, continuing the transformation of the streetscape, and marking more rapid change for Bundaberg. By 1967, local population had risen to 27,000, and as a result of the world changes in the sugar industry, Bundaberg was in a position to expand export of its sugar.

Large numbers of European migrants settled during this period and began cane farming, and Bundaberg became the Australian centre for the manufacturing and exporting of worldwide of cane harvesters. This had the unfortunate side effect of reducing the need for labour in the fields, as the sugar industry became increasingly mechanized, however greater employment opportunities were opening in the production side of sugar harvesting equipment to compensate. Bundaberg Sugar was formed in the 60's, as Bingera and Fairymead merged, the Bundaberg Foundry expanded its operations, and the Bundeng Shipyard opened in 1968, building steel trawlers for the expanding prawn industry.

Bundaberg in the 70's

By 1971, the Census recorded the population at 27,394. Water became a major issue during this period, due to the depletion and salination of existing underground supplies. The Queensland Government supplied funding for Monduran Dam on the Kolan River, and the construction of the dam provided longterm employment during this decade. The dam was renamed the Fred Haigh Dam in 1979.

During this decade, the local prawning industry was an employment growth area, with 14% of Queensland's prawns, and 42% of the total scallops, being caught in Bundaberg's waters.

A fledgling tourist industry was developing, with a strong interest in local history. In 1976, a tourism seminar was held in Bundaberg for the first time.

The 70's marked the demolition and rebuilding of a number of premises throughout Bundaberg. The Commonwealth Bank moved to Bourbong Street, the Palais Dance Hall was demolished to make way for the SGIO Offices and arcade, and a new ambulance station was officially opened in 1970.

1975 saw the emerging Bundaberg Sugar succeed in a takeover bid for Millaquin Sugar.

In 1977, plans were announced for a $12 million dollar investment in the construction of a Woolworths shopping complex near Heidke Street.

1978-9 were difficult years for the sugar industry, exacerbated by continuing drought in the local area. In 1979, Bundaberg's water levels neared a record low caused by the third dry year on record. Total rainfall of 460.2mm was almost 683mm below the annual average.

Problems in the sugar industry lead to the increase of Bundaberg's small crop industry, with the most successful being tomatoes, beans, rockmelons and watermelons. District growers received an income of $13.5 million for the 1977-78 financial year.