Community
5 March, 2025
Venue with the whole lot
THE amalgamation of the Cairns Showgrounds and Barlow Park has been elevated to a ‘major events precinct’ and rated as a priority for Commonwealth funding in this year’s federal election campaign.
The precinct is ranked among five council priorities during the upcoming election campaign:
‘Securing Cairns Housing Foundations’ plan, which advocates for the state government to declare a ‘Priority Development Area’ over the Mount Peter southern growth corridor so it can be eligible for federal trunk infrastructure capital
Funding for the ‘Major Events Precinct Masterplan’ and the establishment of a high-performance facility within the area
$1 million for revitalisation of the Muddy’s Playground on the Esplanade (matched by the council)
$575,000 for an upgrade of the eastern side of the Red Arrow track (matched by the council)
Funding for ‘Cairns Celebrates 150 Years’ events in 2026.
Mayor Amy Eden told Wednesday’s fortnightly council meeting that “given the significant size and strategic location of the Cairns Showgrounds and Barlow Park precinct in the heart of our city, “it’s time to broaden the vision beyond just sports and major events, which has been the focus for the past few years with our ‘major events precinct’ advocacy project.”
It could also provide residential development, she said.
However, Cr Eden made it clear that the Cairns Show would stay at the venue and be enhanced by the proposal.
“Importantly, the Cairns Show will remain at the showgrounds. No ifs, no buts. The show has been a beloved tradition for over a century and I want to assure our community that any redevelopment that may occur will enhance, not diminish, this iconic event,” she said.
“The precinct could evolve into a vibrant, multi-use community asset, integrating public spaces, residential and accommodation options and modernised event infrastructure while still supporting its traditional uses,” she said.
“Part of the site could become our version of the much-loved Eat Street site in Brisbane.
“We could rejuvenate the Fearnley St canal into a walking and cycling greenway. It could host concerts from music superstars.
“It might even provide exemplar residential developments that demonstrate what’s possible for tropical urbanism and architecture.
“Cairns is evolving, and as our population grows, we need diverse and well-planned spaces. This project presents an opportunity to create a balanced mix of public space, residential housing or tourism accommodation, and commercial activity that enhances liveability.”
Cr Eden said residential apartments or a hotel would add vibrancy, increase housing and create a more connected city.
