Maintaining an enviable lifestyle through sporting and recreational facilities

• $9.1M for parks, sports, pools and footpaths
• $2.4M upgrade for iconic Muddy’s Playground
• $2M to protect Clifton and Holloways beaches

Council is backing the city’s vibrant, outdoor lifestyle with major investment in local parks, sporting grounds, pools, footpaths and recreational facilities as part of the 2025/26 Budget.

Mayor Amy Eden said the budget responds to what locals love most about living in Cairns – the ability to enjoy the outdoors, stay active, and feel connected to community.

“Our region is known for its enviable lifestyle and a big part of that is access to open spaces, playgrounds, footpaths, sports facilities and beaches,” Mayor Eden said.

“This Budget targets investment in the everyday places that make our suburbs more liveable, active and connected."

Key Budget commitments

“Council is delivering almost $3 million to rejuvenate local parks, $2.1 million to upgrade sporting facilities, and more than $1.3 million in improvements at our public pools,' Mayor Eden said,

“We’re also investing over $3.7 million in footpaths and cycleways – including $1.5 million to build new footpaths – because we know how important it is to have safe, accessible ways to get around your neighbourhood.

“And we’re giving one of the city’s most beloved spots – Muddy’s Playground on the Esplanade – a $2.4 million refresh to ensure it remains a special place for families for years to come.”

Maintaining community spaces

Across the city, the community enjoys access to more than 600 parks and natural areas, over 220 playgrounds, 54 dog off-leash areas, 27 outdoor fitness stations, and dozens of skate parks and courts.

Council spends nearly $22.9 million annually to maintain these much-loved spaces – from mowing lawns to fixing play equipment – ensuring they remain safe, welcoming and enjoyable.

There is also a $12.4 million investment in maintaining Council assets, including city venues, Botanic Gardens and Centenary Lakes, and the Lagoon and Esplanade.

The Budget also delivers $2 million for erosion mitigation works at Clifton Beach and Holloways Beach, helping protect the natural coastline that locals treasure.

“This is about making sure our suburbs are places where people want to live, raise families and stay active well into the future,” Cr Eden said.