Business
12 August, 2025
Survey backs Woolies move
A COMMUNITY survey has found more than 1000 local residents would support Sunday trade at Woolworths Gordonvale, strongly backing the change after the National Retail Association, on behalf of the supermarket chain, lodged its statement with the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission (QIRC) in May.
The application to extend retail trading hours, if granted, will allow non-exempt shops like Woolworths to be able to trade from 9am to 6pm on Sundays, giving locals the same seven-day convenience already enjoyed by shoppers in nearby Cairns, Edmonton, Smithfield and Innisfail.
Recent independent social research conducted in July 2025, commissioned by Woolworths, revealed significant support for Sunday trading in Gordonvale with over 98.5 per cent of 1053 participants backing the proposal. The extensive survey involved Gordonvale residents and those from surrounding areas, demonstrating the broad desire for Sunday shopping options.
Woolworths’ statement submitted to the commission made three key arguments in support of Sunday trade, including greater flexibility for customers, increased working hours for 90 staff and support for a growing community and local economy opportunities for team members.
Woolworths’ Queensland assistant state manager Sophie Hobden said the supermarket chain was “proud to be part of the Gordonvale community and we’re proud our store supports local jobs, provides convenience for customers and drives foot traffic for small businesses”.
“We have listened to our team and customers and they have said clearly that Woolworths Gordonvale should be open on Sunday,” she said.
“If the application is granted, it will deliver significant benefits across the community, allowing locals to enjoy the same convenience and choice available elsewhere, while supporting local employment and economic growth. We look forward to participating in the commission’s independent process”.
But federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter has lashed out at the proposal.
He said it would be “the final nail in the coffin” for small, family-run businesses in the southern Cairns suburb.
“We will tenaciously oppose and take down the names of anyone that pushes seven-day trade at Gordonvale Woolworths.”
