General News
2 September, 2023
$144m blueprint
AN ambitious Innisfail CBD revitalisation masterplan costing $144 million has been revealed and endorsed by the Cassowary Coast Regional Council.
The plan has been divided into 14 stages, starting with the first on the Johnstone River waterfront and Fitzgerald Esplanade worth $12m.
It also includes the biggest project – the Chjowai Parklands South – estimated at $52m to create a vibrant community and tourist destination celebrating Indigenous Mamu culture through new amenities, water play facilities, and cultural experiences.
The plan involves cheaper “quick wins” using council and other funding streams for work such as the Edith Street urban rainforest and the Rankin Street riverside link.
But a business plan, detailed planning, funding sources and a timeframe have not been included in the 115-page document.
Senior project manager Richard Wilkes told last week’s ordinary council meeting that “it is acknowledged that there is significant cost to achieve the stated goals of the master plan and that the plan will need to be implemented over the long term, requiring both private sector investment, and grant funding from external government sources, including continuing community engagement to be successful.”
He said it would include short term projects as well as longer term.
“The master plan identifies both quick win and significant long term project opportunities, each designed to leverage the town’s intrinsic strengths and respond to evolving needs,” he said.
“The projects range from enhancing arrival points and streetscapes to creating cultural hubs and recreational spaces.
“These initiatives are carefully crafted to not only uplift the physical environment but also foster a sense of belonging, identity and community engagement. By focusing on iconic waterfront precincts, cultural hubs and revitalised streetscapes, the master plan aims to position Innisfail as a place that honours its past while embracing its future.”
Cr Renee McLeod, who holds the council’s economic development and tourism portfolio, said it was critical the masterplan was implemented and “not sit and do nothing like in the past”.
She said the council had committed $40,000 in this year’s budget for some “quick wins”.
Cr McLeod said the biggest projects needed to be funded and shovel-ready and it was up to the stakeholder reference group and councillors to explain the process to residents and ratepayers.
“As a region, it’s important to envision the long-term future of Innisfail whilst also implementing short-term initiatives that can be activated and provide benefits for locals, visitors and businesses,” she said.
“During consultation, the community highlighted the importance of showcasing Innisfail’s character and charm, which has now been successfully embedded as the heart of this revitalisation.”
Cr Teresa Millwood said she was concerned there was no time frame and the council had to be more specific so the community did not misunderstand the plan nor had expectations.
She asked if it was over 10 to 20 years. “We have to be clear in our intentions and delivery,” Cr Millwood said.
Mr Wilkes said time frames would be included when the staged plan was developed.
Cr Jeff Baines said it was “a great project” and business plans had to be provided to “impress” funding bodies.
Stakeholder reference group member Susette Birchley said she found the whole process where Innisfail ‘sits’ to be beneficial.
View the master plan on www.cairnslocalnews.com.au
Innisfail Master Plan
