A more liveable, vibrant and resilient Mareeba where people are more likely to “stop, stay and spend” is mapped out in the Mareeba CBD Blueprint Masterplan presented at last week’s Mareeba Shire Council meeting.

Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin said the plan brings revitalisation of Mareeba’s CBD one step closer and reflects a shared vision to reconnect the  community with the heart of the town.

“The Masterplan not only addresses critical infrastructure issues, it also encompasses priorities  identified by the community, and incorporates feedback to deliver a revitalisation plan that celebrates our culture and heritage,’’ she said.

“We acknowledge and sincerely thank the Australian Government’s regional Precincts and Partnerships  Program for its essential funding support, which has enabled the development of this  Masterplan.  

“The Masterplan is a step closer to improving Mareeba’s liveability, vibrancy and climate resilience.  The initiatives will drive economic growth, attract new businesses, and support the expansion of existing ones, creating a thriving, welcoming, walkable CBD that encourages people to stop, stay and spend.’’

In June and July last year, more than 200 people visited community engagement sessions, and 190 submitted surveys which helped inform a draft plan.

In November, more than 600 local residents, businesses and visitors took the time to provide further feedback which is reflected in the final Masterplan endorsed today.  

Mareeba CBD Project Blueprint Stakeholder Reference Group chair Cr Amy Braes said the Masterplan was strengthened by working alongside the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce, the  community and stakeholders over the past year to help formulate a once-in-a-generation plan.  

“We know the stormwater drainage in the CBD requires major works, and Project Blueprint enabled us to consider the aspirations and needs of the community and businesses, and how we can incorporate those hopes into the delivery of the stormwater upgrades. As a result, the Masterplan will deliver significant long-term benefits much greater than would have been overwise achieved,” Cr  Braes explained.  

Community driven recommendations include:  

• upgrading stormwater drainage 

• improving lighting and pedestrian safety along Byrnes Street 

• enhancing accessibility 

• welcoming town with shaded green spaces 

• inclusive public amenities 

• improved wayfinding 

• celebrating Mareeba’s heritage through art and signage 

• revitalising key streets like Byrnes and Atherton St with outdoor dining 

• event spaces transforming areas like Railway Avenue into inviting gateways for visitors