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General News

28 November, 2025

Go ahead for $5m rec park

THE youth of the southern suburbs of Cairns are looking forward to the first $4.75 million stage of the Jeff Pezzutti Park upgrade at Woree.

By Nick Dalton

A concept of the upgrades approved for Jeff Pezzutti Park. Picture: Cairns Regional Council
A concept of the upgrades approved for Jeff Pezzutti Park. Picture: Cairns Regional Council

The upgrade will revitalise the 11ha space with new, inclusive activity areas designed to bring people together, support active lifestyles and create a welcoming destination for one of the city’s most diverse and rapidly growing communities.

Stage 1B will include:

  • A fully redeveloped skate park

  • A new full-size multicourt

  • A redeveloped district-level playground with shade

  • A new all-abilities accessible toilet block

  • Demolition of the Woree Tennis Club

  • New internal access paths, shelters, seating and landscaping

  • New CCTV to enhance safety.

On Wednesday the council approved the launch of stage 1B, paving the way for construction to begin next year.

The project has been developed in consultation with nearby schools and aims to deliver a high-quality, all-ages recreation space.

Division 3 Councillor Cathy Zeiger emphasised the importance of the park as a district-level recreational hub for Woree, Bayview Heights, Earlville and surrounding areas, noting that many families rely on access to free, inclusive and accessible spaces to be active and connected.

“Open spaces like Jeff Pezzutti Park help ensure every child, young person and family has access to safe, enjoyable recreation close to home, playing a vital role in fostering a positive, welcoming community,” she said.

Member for Mulgrave Terry James said he had championed the park which has been backed with $1.5 million from the state government.

Jeff Pezzutti Park is already home to several user groups, and the new activity space has been designed in close consideration of these clubs and their ongoing operations.

Council has acknowledged the importance of balancing the needs of all tenants while creating new public recreation opportunities for the wider community.

The success of similar district parks across the Cairns region, such as Coastwatchers Park and Goomboora Park, demonstrates the value of investing in high-quality spaces that encourage community activity, safety and social connection.

Council will continue to engage with local schools, park users and community members as the project progresses.

A community survey to select the preferred playground concept will open in December, with construction planned through to May 2027.

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