General News
17 March, 2026
Councillors’ halfway hopes
CAIRNS Regional Council councillors have shared their reflections on achievements, challenges and priorities as the current council term approaches its midpoint following the 2024 election, after Cairns Local News asked several councillors and Deputy Mayor Brett Olds to reflect on their work so far.
Deputy Mayor Brett Olds
Deputy Mayor Brett Olds said collaboration between councillors and strong relationships with other levels of government had been a key achievement during the first half of the term.
“I’m most proud of how the elected body, especially the individual divisional councillors, have come together to work collaboratively for the whole region,” he said.
“Our relationship with our Federal MP is great and our relationship with the State Government has never been better or stronger. This will only lead to better outcomes for the entire region.”
Cr Olds said several projects had been completed or progressed across the region including sealing the Ellis Beach Carpark, Veivers Rd footpath, Moore St footpath connection, the new Parkrun begun at Kewarra Beach, the start of the Major Events Precinct Masterplan, PDA (Priority Development Area) announced, and the new Cairns Water Treatment Plant under construction.
Cr Olds said recovery following Cyclone Jasper had been one of the most significant challenges facing the region.
“Recovery works and building back areas with extra resilience has been one of our biggest challenges,” he said.
“We have also had water storage issues, which were unexpected and have been challenging, but again, working collaboratively, we have this under control now too.”
Looking ahead, Cr Olds said completing the new Water Treatment Plant and planning for major growth across the region would be key priorities.
“We have so many exciting projects coming our way (including over half a billion dollars’ worth of outdoor adventure offerings on the northern beaches).”
Cr Cathy Zeiger
Division 3 councillor Cathy Zeiger said one of the biggest achievements during the term had been the commencement of Stage 2 of the Jeff Pezzutti Masterplan in Woree.
Located on Windarra Street, Woree, the project includes a large skatepark, a full-size basketball and multi-purpose court, a new shade-covered playground, public toilets, safety improvements, landscaping, shelters and seating.
“A $4.7million project that has taken roughly nine years to get to this exciting point,” Cr Zeiger said.
Cr Zeiger said challenges during the term had been relatively minimal, but new developments in the division including social housing, had generated strong community interest.
“Communication around these new developments is important … as residents are passionate about their area.”
Cr Zeiger said concerns had also been raised about social housing developments.
“I have publicly challenged the lack of air conditioning for future older tenants of the 490-unit project on Des Chalmers Drive and will continue to push for a State Government policy change.”
Looking ahead, Cr Zeiger said one of her key priorities was the development of the White Rock Community and Multi-Cultural Centre.
“I was advocating for this one before I was a councillor! Long story short, after extensive community consultation and detailed design, this will commence in the 27/28 year,” she said.
Cr Zeiger said community engagement remained one of the most rewarding aspects of the role.
“The best part of the job is connecting with the community,” she said.
Cr Kristy Vallely
Division 6 councillor Kristy Vallely said improving safety, connectivity and recreation opportunities had been key priorities in her division.
“I’m proud to have secured $6 million in the Council budget to progress a long-advocated shared path connection along Brinsmead Road between Brinsmead and Freshwater,” she said.
“Residents, schools and community groups have raised safety concerns about this stretch for many years.”
Cr Vallely said she had also been advocating to the State Government to contribute $3 million so the cost does not fall solely on ratepayers.
Another project delivered during the term was the new bike jump park in Brinsmead.
“It’s been fantastic to see the community embrace it, with kids getting outdoors, being active and spending less time on screens,” she said.
Cr Vallely said she had also secured $11 million to begin the Redlynch Sporting Precinct.
“It’s been great to see strong support from my council colleagues to help move this project forward,” she said.
She said residents frequently raised issues such as road safety, footpaths and connectivity.
“Traffic concerns, drainage during heavy rain and maintaining the liveability of our neighbourhoods also come up regularly,” she said.
Cr Vallely said she stayed connected with the community by attending local meetings, P&C meetings, community events and by holding mobile offices across the division.
