Mareeba CBD Blueprint Project: Precinct Plan Presented
The Mareeba CBD Blueprint Masterplan was presented at today’s Council Meeting 18/02/2026, bringing revitalisation to Mareeba’s CBD one step closer.
Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin said that the plan reflects a shared vision to reconnect the community with the heart of the town, and will shape the future of the CBD.
“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.
We acknowledge and sincerely thank the Australian Government’s regional Precincts and Partnerships Program (rPPP) for its essential funding support, which has enabled the development of this Masterplan,” said Mayor Toppin.
“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,” said Mayor Toppin.
In June and July 2025, more than 200 people visited community engagement sessions, and 190 submitted surveys which helped inform a draft plan. In November 2025, over 600 local residents, businesses and visitors took the time to provide further feedback which is reflected in the final Masterplan endorsed today.
Chair of the Mareeba CBD Project Blueprint Stakeholder Reference Group, 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 infrastructure
• 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
The Masterplan initiative was funded by $2,143,249 from the Australian Government’s regional Precincts and Partnerships Program (rPPP).
By the end of 2026, Council will have construction-ready plans and will focus on applying for State and Federal funding.
This long-term project will be delivered in stages, subject to available funding.
“I wish to extend sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to this project, the funding support from the Australian Government, and the collaboration between Council, the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce, the Stakeholder Reference Group, residents, visitors, business and property owners,” said Mayor Toppin.
For further information and to view the Masterplan, please visit Mareeba CBD Project Blueprint – Mareeba Shire Council.