ALP looks at upgrade of Mulgrave Rd site

could be redeveloped in conjunction with Cairns Regional Council.

The council is the trustee of the State Government-owned land and leases it to CSA.

The lease expires in 2019 and will likely be renewed.

The council voiced ambitious plans to move the show to the Woree racecourse earlier this year and build a stadium on the piece of prime innercity real estate.

But CSA members, including president Ian Allen, refused to budge from their home of 86 years.

Mr Allen said he hoped to see all the buildings on the showgrounds revamped, including the grandstand, which was built in 1931.

“The showgrounds belong to the people of Cairns and we’d like to see the facility upgraded,” he said.

“There are so many charitable organisation use this ground all year around. We’d like to improve these facilities for everyone to use.”

Mr Healy said groups that could benefit from a revamped showground included BMX clubs, dog clubs, local bands, the U3A and driver-training groups.

He said the venue could also be used to host open-air music festivals.

“The Cairns Showground is already well-patronised, but with this masterplan, it could be turned into a modern cultural and entertainment precinct,” Mr Healy said.

Division 5 Councillor Richie