Plans revealed to evolve Barlow Park and Cairns Showgrounds into major sporting and events precinct

An ambitious plan to turn Barlow Park into a major sporting and events precinct has been unveiled with Cairns Showgrounds to be incorporated into the hub.

Cairns Regional Council note the enhancement of Barlow Park and continued support for investment and upgrade to the Cairns Showgrounds are key components of their vision for a Major Events Precinct.

Council has endorsed the Major Events Precinct Vision and Development Opportunities Report, which outlined a strategic approach to evolving Barlow Park and the Cairns Showgrounds site into a premier regional sporting and events precinct.

Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said the report set out principles to guide development of the precinct in a financially responsible and ordered way, while recognising the site’s untapped potential.

Mayor Manning notes “by capitalising on the precinct’s advantageous location, we can bring two established sites together to provide something for everyone – from world class events and experiences, to daily opportunities for sport, recreation, community activity, education and training..

“This report represents the starting point and an important step to establishing the precinct, which will require collaboration from all levels of government, key stakeholders and the community.

“The work really starts now to develop a business case and a master plan in a coordinated, collaborative and sensible fashion, with proper consideration given to the expectations of the community as well as the current users.”

Council considers the Barlow Park and Showgrounds site to be the natural location for the precinct as it is centrally located, has ample space and there is room.

The report identified a number of development opportunities to help facilitate the site’s elevation to premier regional sporting and events precinct, including a methodology to upgrade Barlow Park and the Showgrounds, partnering with stakeholders to establish a high-performance hub, and enhancing the aesthetics of the site to be more open and inviting.

Council will also look to capitalise on the opportunities associated with the 2032 Olympic Games and current stakeholder interest.

Image top: Cairns showground Credit: Tropical North Queensland; image above: Concept for Barlow Park sporting and events precinct. Courtesy Cairns Regional Council