General News
15 January, 2026
Fresh outlook on Palm Cove
A NEW Palm Cove lobby and advocacy group has hit the new year running, calling for big fixes to parking, traffic flow and pedestrianisation.
But Palm Cove Alliance president Peter Bon said it was imperative that any upgrades did not change the melaleuca trees, village atmosphere, low-rise character and relaxed tropical feel.
He said Palm Cove had long been one of Far North Queensland’s most cherished coastal villages – a place where Leigh Ratcliffe’s iconic streetscape design, towering melaleucas and relaxed tropical charm combined to create something genuinely special.
“But as the region grows and major developments accelerate, there’s a growing conversation about how to ensure Palm Cove’s voice is heard in shaping its future,” Mr Bon said.
He said the alliance had been established to add strength to that voice.
“Palm Cove is now facing some of its most significant changes in decades. The recently-approved Reefsedge Resort Water Park alone is expected to attract an additional 379,000 visitors per year to the facility itself, with significant flow-through impacts on parking, traffic, public spaces and village infrastructure,” Mr Bon said.
“The Cairns 2050 Growth Strategy will bring further change. These pressures call for deeper thinking about both the challenges and the opportunities ahead,” he said.
“Building on the foundation of advocacy that’s always existed here, the alliance aims to bring residents together to collaborate effectively with council, state and federal stakeholders to secure a strategic, long-term approach.
“We love this village and we want to make sure its future is shaped by everyone who cares about Palm Cove – whether you live here, work here, own a business or are a regular visitor.
“Our role is to listen, work alongside existing groups and help deliver tangible outcomes and legacy infrastructure that future generations will value.”
Mr Bon said recent feedback revealed a clear picture: 95% wanted to preserve the village’s unique character and natural beauty, while practical issues around safety and infrastructure needed attention.
“Parking, traffic flow and footpath safety are the top concerns. Residents want solutions that address these daily challenges while maintaining what makes Palm Cove special – the melaleuca trees, village atmosphere, low-rise character and relaxed tropical feel.
The management committee is former senior government IT expert, civil designer and small business owner Peter Bon, community leader and leadership consultant Gary Kerr, retired senior accountant and IT expert Dale Middleton, senior marketing and communications leader Nicky White and medical specialist Dr Deborah Monaghan.
Other founding members are The Reef House director Malcolm Bean and senior government executive Jo McDonald.
For more information visit www.bit.ly/4juPWN1or email palmcovealliance@gmail.com
