General News
6 June, 2025
CBD Blueprint stakeholder group formed
REPRESENTATIVES from a diverse cross section of the community have been selected for the Project Blueprint Stakeholder Reference Group, which will help guide construction-ready plans to future-proof the Mareeba CBD.
Project Blueprint, announced earlier this year, received $2.1 million through the Australian Government’s Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, to enable Mareeba Shire Council to revitalise the town’s business precinct.
The plan will improve pedestrian accessibility, stormwater drainage and general amenities in Mareeba’s main shopping area, stretching from Herberton Street to Lloyd Street and between Constance Street and Railway Avenue.
Recently appointed chair of the group, Cr Amy Braes, said nominations for a position had come from a wide range of people.
“The group will play an important part in the planning process,” she said.
“I see it as a chance for us to get the planning right alongside people living, working and investing in Mareeba every day.
“Everyone has a different perspective, and it’s our job to listen carefully and weigh up what’s going to work best – not just for now, but for the long term.”
Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin was delighted there was so much interest from the community in the new CBD Blueprint.
“Nominations were received from long-time residents, property owners and business operators, as well as residents new to our town. Each nominee has something unique to bring to the reference group,” she said.
“A diverse representation across demographics, cultures and interests was selected to promote a diversity of voices, and a balance of interests.”
The members of the Stakeholder Reference Group are: Raymond Cater, Semir Elmazi, Fred Cristaldi, Alex (Joon Soo) Park, Ann Eldridge, Amber Jerome and Carolyn Mundt.
They are joined by representatives of key stakeholder groups including the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce representative Joe Moro, QPS Acting Senior Sergeant Shaun Fincham, Muluridji Aboriginal Corporation representative Julie Go Sam, Mareeba Shire Local Tourism Organisation representative Jessica Fealy, Collaborating for Community Safety Group representatives Robert Larkin and John Wason, and Disability advocate Liza Jones.
Cr Braes said there would also be opportunities for the wider community to be involved in the once-in-a-generation planning project and encouraged residents and business operators to take part in the broader consultation.
“This is a chance for you to help shape the future of Mareeba’s CBD,” she said.
“So please visit council’s website, check The Express, or follow us on Facebook for details about upcoming drop-in sessions and the community survey.”
