EXPANSION
Expanding The Village On Blain for Blackwater’s Workforce
As Blackwater experiences rapid growth across key sectors – particularly mining, resources and agriculture – local accommodation options are under significant strain. The Village On Blain is responding to this demand with an exciting $40M expansion project, now approved and underway, to provide additional high-quality, purpose-built accommodations in the heart of Blackwater.
The Central Highlands Development Corporation’s Workforce Development and Accommodation Strategy highlights a critical need for fit-for-purpose housing to support the town’s growing workforce. Increased workforce rosters and industry demands are intensifying the pressure on private rentals and short-term accommodations, signalling an urgent need for dedicated workforce lodging that meets the standards of comfort and accessibility.
The Village On Blain Expansion Plan
With the support of our development partner, Pantex Pty Ltd, we are expanding The Village On Blain by adding 450 rooms, constructed in three stages on adjacent land. This phased expansion will help to:
- relieve the strain on Blackwater’s private rental market,
- reduce the town’s reliance on hotels and motels, and
- provide essential, high-quality accommodations for workers close to local amenities and services.
“The Village On Blain accommodation is already known for its purpose-built design and exceptional facilities, offering a true ‘home away from home’ for workers,” said Karl Schirmer, Managing Director of Pantex Pty Ltd. “This expansion is a direct response to demand; with current accommodation at capacity and new contracts that will keep The Village On Blain fully occupied for at least the next four years. We’re committed to meeting these workforce needs while actively supporting the local community.”
Supporting Blackwater's Local Economy
Our commitment to Blackwater’s development goes beyond lodging – our project is designed to generate opportunities for local employment and economic growth, reinforcing our ties to the community.
The site expansion activities are being delivered by contractors from within the Central Highlands region wherever possible, or otherwise from across Central Queensland. Upon completion, an additional 40 local jobs will be created to run the village, supplementing the existing 55 positions already in place.
If you are interested in employment opportunities or would like to offer your trade, services or products as part of this project, we encourage you to register your interest below. Your expertise and support are invaluable to making this expansion a success for our community.
PROGRESS UPDATES
Public Notification Period & Community Sessions
The public notification period for our development application has now closed. It was open from Monday, 31st March to Monday, 5th May 2025.
We’d like to sincerely thank all community members who engaged with us during this time—whether by providing feedback or attending our community information sessions on 18th and 19th November 2024, or our Open Day on 28th April 2025. We valued the opportunity to share more about the project and hear your thoughts.
Here are some of the resources shared during the Community Sessions:
Development Approval
The Village on Blain expansion project has received development approval from the Central Highlands Regional Council in September 2025.
We remain grateful for the support and feedback received from community members, local businesses, consultants and stakeholders throughout the planning and approval process. Their input has helped shape a development that will provide much-needed workforce accommodation while supporting the continued growth of Blackwater and the wider Central Highlands region.
Your feedback helped shape the final design and planning outcome that has now received Council approval.
Construction has commenced
Since approval, significant progress has been made on site, with site works commending in October 2025 and the first accommodation modules successfully delivered and installed in December 2025. The project continues to move forward as planned, with works progressing across Stage 11.
Stage 11 will consist of 168 en-suited rooms, an Assistant Manager’s residence, laundry block and connecting roads and infrastructure.
May 2026 Update
Construction of the Village on Blain expansion is well underway, with the final accommodation modules arriving on site in May 2026.
Stage 11 is expected to be completed by the end of July 2026 and will deliver an additional 168 purpose-built accommodation rooms to support Blackwater’s growing workforce demands.
Additional works include a dedicated Assistant Manager’s residence and a new laundry facility. Significant landscaping works will complete the project and complement the existing beautifully landscaped grounds, further enhancing the village environment for residents and visitors alike.
We would like to acknowledge and thank our project partners, including Pantex Pty Ltd, Monarch Building Systems, Central Highlands Regional Council, Whitehouse Group, Dundee’s Plumbing, Boiso’s Electrical Services and Penfold Projects, whose expertise and commitment are helping bring this important development to life.
As works continue, we look forward to providing further updates as the project progresses.