Council backs Scouts with new lease at Edmonton site

Young people in Cairns will soon have greater opportunities for development and connection, with Council approving a new long-term lease of a substantial block of land at Jubilee Street, Edmonton to the Scouts Association of Australia (QLD).

The decision allows Scouts Association to establish a much-needed Regional Headquarters while continuing to deliver life-changing programs for young people across the region.

The new arrangement also ensures the ongoing presence of Guides Queensland in the community, with both organisations set to share the facility.

Deputy Mayor Brett Olds, who chaired Wednesday’s Ordinary Meeting, said the decision recognised the significant value Scouts and Guides bring to Cairns.

“These organisations play a vital role in shaping confident, resilient, community-minded young people,” Cr Olds said.

“Council is proud to back an organisation that not only delivers youth development but also provides opportunities for leadership, training and community engagement.”

For nearly 20 years, Scouts Association has been based at the Edmonton site, running programs that focus on teamwork, resilience, vocational skills, and issues important to local young people, including Indigenous engagement and youth health.

The expanded lease will enable Scouts Association to:

• Create a dedicated Regional Headquarters for adult leader training, administration, and volunteer coordination.
• Provide secure storage and training facilities to better support approximately 15 leader training weekends a year.
• Host community events, camps, and sleepovers for young people in a safe, supervised environment.
• Partner with Guides Queensland to ensure the continuation of Girl Guides in Cairns.

Division 2 Councillor Matthew Tickner said: “Giving the Scouts a lease over the larger area will help them offer even more youth development opportunities for young people across Cairns and the surrounding regions.”

“This long-term lease gives Scouts the certainty they need to continue growing and inspiring young people across our region. By supporting Scouts, we’re investing in the next generation of leaders, helping them build skills, confidence, and strong community connections.” Cr Tickner said.

The freehold lease has been offered for a 10-year term under Council’s ‘Tenure and Disposal Policy’, supporting not-for-profit community groups.