Mareeba Shire Council has tabled its 2024/2025 Annual Report at the October Council meeting, highlighting a year of strong service delivery, infrastructure upgrades and community-focused initiatives.
Mayor Angela Toppin said the report demonstrates Council’s continued commitment to delivering vital services and new projects while maintaining financial sustainability.
“The Annual Report is a recap of Council’s progress and achievements aligned with our Corporate Plan,” said Mayor Toppin.
Among the year’s key achievements was the completion of the Coondoo Street streetscape upgrade in Kuranda, featuring improved street lighting, footpaths and fairy lights in the heritage-listed fig trees—enhancing both safety and main street’s appeal.
Council also made significant progress under its Water Strategy, including upgrades to the booster pump and filtration system at the Mareeba Water Treatment Plant, securing the delivery of safe, reliable drinking water.
Natural disaster recovery works were advanced with the support of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, which are jointly funded by the Australian Government and Queensland Government. Major road restorations were completed across the Shire, including Bushy Creek bridge on Mt Lewis Road in Julatten, Jarawee Road and Barron Falls Road in Kuranda and Emerald End Road and Carmen Road in Mareeba.
Council continued its focus on liveability, maintaining parks and open spaces, supporting community organisations, and delivering public art projects. Notable works include new murals at Geraghty Park in Julatten and Mareeba Bi-Lakes Precinct, as well as a sculpture at the School of Arts Hall in Irvinebank. Council also hosted popular events like the Mareeba Multicultural Festival, Great Wheelbarrow Race and Seniors Morning Tea.
A major initiative launched this year is the Mareeba CBD Blueprint, a long-term revitalisation plan shaped by community feedback. The project will deliver construction-ready designs to improve drainage, accessibility, lighting, and public amenities in Mareeba’s town centre.
The report also acknowledges the loss of Councillor Kevin Davies in January 2025.
“Cr Davies was a passionate advocate for the community. His insight and dedication are deeply missed,” said Mayor Toppin.
In April, Council welcomed Councillor Mladen Bosnic to the Chamber and looks forward to his contributions in the year ahead.
Mayor Toppin concluded by thanking Councillors, staff and funding partners.
“We remain committed to our vision of a growing, confident and sustainable Shire.”