General News
30 October, 2025
New PCYC gaining momentum
PLANS and leasing arrangements for a new purpose-built PCYC in Mareeba were approved by the council this month, bringing the much-needed facility closer to fruition.
At its ordinary meeting on 15 October, councillors approved the material change of use (MCU) application for the two lots on Constance St, earmarked for the development.
In September, PCYC Qld lodged the MCU, together with an architecturally designed building plan for assessment.
The plan puts forward the creation of a “youth space” with indoor and outdoor sports areas, staff offices, and a 10-car car park, and would support young people in re-engaging with education, training, and community services.
In discussing the application, Deputy Mayor Lenore Wyatt said it was “great to see”.
“PCYC is a big service we require in our shire,” she said.
“These blocks are freehold blocks, and we’ll be leasing them to [PCYC] - and this is to the value of about $400,000 - as part of our contribution for infrastructure for them to be able to do this”.
The arrangement will be under a 30-year peppercorn lease.
“It’s important to note that this is something we’re doing for the youth of our town, particularly our at-risk youth,” Mayor Angela Toppin said.
“And oftentimes we have people say, ‘oh, what’s council doing to help?’ And this is our big help and it’s a wonderful facility to have.”
The PCYC was granted seed funding of $5 million by the State Government in 2023 and will continue to seek further funding to complete the project.
Council has stipulated PCYC keep to a schedule that ensures the building is completed by the end of 2026.
In the meantime, the PCYC has had its current lease at 136 Walsh Street renewed.
