We have received confirmation that our application for funding to create a comprehensive masterplan and business case for the Barlow Park and Cairns Showgrounds Precinct was successful — and we’ve secured the full $850,000 we asked for from the Australian Government.

This strategic 26-hectare parcel of land in the heart of Cairns has huge potential. This isn’t just about sport or major events (though they’ll always be part of it) — it’s about a bigger vision. A vision that connects this precinct to the CBD, activates it year-round, and makes sure we’re maximising the site’s potential and achieving the highest and best use of the land.

Imagine the future and possibilities:

• A tropical Eat Street, buzzing with food and entertainment

• The Fearnley St drain transformed into a canal with a green walking and cycling trail

• A high-performance centre for the NQ Cowboys women’s team, visiting athletes, and locals

• Concerts from global music superstars

• And an upgraded home for the Cairns Show, right where it belongs

A roadmap like this is critical — especially in the lead-up to the next state and federal elections, and with Brisbane 2032 just around the corner. As an Olympic host city, we need a clear, costed plan now to unlock investment and opportunity.

This work complements our 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐔𝐫𝐛𝐚𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭, which was also federally funded. That project is all about better connecting our CBD to the Major Events Precinct, making the area safe, accessible, and pedestrian-friendly. For too long, the railway line has felt like the boundary where the CBD ends — this will change that, creating a seamless, vibrant connection between the city centre and the precinct.

By getting this right, we won’t just have a great venue — we’ll have a connected community space that celebrates our tropical lifestyle, boosts our economy, and puts Cairns firmly on the map.

A massive thank you to Nita Green – Senator for Queensland, Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith and the Albanese Government for supporting this vision for Cairns.