Jeff Pezzutti Park to be revitalised

• Council has approved the next stage in the Jeff Pezzutti Park upgrade, clearing the way for construction of a major new activity and recreation precinct shaped by extensive school and community input.
• The redevelopment will deliver a new skate park, full-size multicourt, upgraded playground, accessible facilities, paths and safety improvements, creating a high-quality, all-ages space for local families.
• The project strengthens the Park’s role as a key district-level hub supporting both community recreation and existing clubs.

Jeff Pezzutti Park is set for an exciting transformation into a vibrant recreation precinct that puts local families and community members first.

The upgrade will revitalise the 11-hectare space with new, inclusive activity areas designed to bring people together, support active lifestyles, and create a welcoming destination for one of the city’s most diverse and rapidly growing communities.

Cairns Regional Council has now approved the project launch of the Jeff Pezzutti Park Activity Space (Stage 1B), paving the way for construction to begin and marking the next step in realising this significant community upgrade.

The $4.75 million project has been shaped through significant engagement with nearby schools and aims to deliver a high-quality, all-ages recreation space that supports local residents.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said engaging with the local community to understand their needs has been a major inspiration for the project.

“Local schools have played a key role in shaping this project and their feedback has been invaluable in ensuring this space meets the needs of children and young people who use the park every day. The community told us clearly that they need a quality, safe, and accessible recreation environment, and this project delivers exactly that,” Cr Eden said.

Division 3 Councillor Cathy Zeiger emphasised the importance of the park as a district-level recreational hub for Woree, Bayview Heights, Earlville and surrounding areas, noting that many families rely on access to free, inclusive, and accessible spaces to be active and connected.

“Open spaces like Jeff Pezzutti Park help ensure every child, young person, and family has access to safe, enjoyable recreation close to home, playing a vital role in fostering a positive, welcoming community,” Cr Zeiger said.

Member for Mulgrave Terry James, expressed his pleasure at seeing this important election commitment – one he had championed – being fulfilled by the Crisafulli Government in partnership with Cairns Regional Council, strengthening the state's local infrastructure.

“I’m proud to announce that this key election promise is underway for the Mulgrave electorate to utilise shortly. This park will become a place of congregation and celebration within the community for many years to come,” Mr James said.

Stage 1B will include:

• A fully redeveloped skate park
• A new full-size multicourt
• A redeveloped district-level playground with shade
• A new all-abilities accessible toilet block
• Demolition of the Woree Tennis Club
• New internal access paths, shelters, seating and landscaping
• New CCTV to enhance safety

Jeff Pezzutti Park is already home to several user groups, and the new activity space has been designed in close consideration of these clubs and their ongoing operations.

Council acknowledged the importance of balancing the needs of all tenants while creating new public recreation opportunities for the wider community.

The success of similar district parks across the Cairns region, such as Coastwatchers Park and Goomboora Park, demonstrates the value of investing in high-quality spaces that encourage community activity, safety and social connection.

Council will continue to engage with local schools, park users and community members as the project progresses.

A community survey to select the preferred playground concept will open in December, with construction planned through to May 2027.

The Jeff Pezzutti Park upgrade is funded with the support of the Queensland Government in association with Cairns Regional Council.