General News
25 August, 2026
Old Kuranda market for sale
EXPRESSIONS of Interest have now closed for the sale of the international tourism drawcard, the Kuranda Original Rainforest Market.
The property has been listed for sale as a commercial investment opportunity by Ray White Cairns.
Located in World Heritage rainforest, the market has been a timeless space for artisans, creatives and foodies since 1978.
Colourful wooden huts and stalls line pathways through the World Heritage-listed rainforest creating an eclectic hippy vibe which became a must-see for local and international visitors
Founded by property owner James Mealing and friends, the original marketeers had to pay for their own train service over two seasons to prove the commercial viability to the Queensland Railway Department of a service to Kuranda for the markets.
Mareeba Shire deputy mayor and Chair of the Mareeba Shire Tourism committee, Lenore Wyatt, said the markets were an iconic part of Kuranda’s story for many years.
“We recognise the important role they have played in shaping the village’s unique character and visitor experience,” she said.
“At this stage, Mareeba Shire Tourism has no information regarding the proposed sale beyond what has been reported publicly. As such, it would be inappropriate to speculate on any future ownership, plans for the site or potential impacts.
“We remain confident that the Kuranda Original Rainforest Markets will continue to play an important role in Kuranda’s tourism offering during this process.”
When asked whether the proposed markets sale combined with the current upgrade of the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway was impacting Kuranda’s visitor tourism market, Cr Wyatt said the village had welcomed strong visitor numbers, “demonstrating both the resilience of the destination and the diversity of ways visitors choose to experience Kuranda”.
“Throughout July, the Kuranda Visitor Information Centre has consistently welcomed more than 300 visitors each day.
“The Kuranda Scenic Railway, the many day tour operators, the growing self-drive market and Trans North bus services continue to bring visitors.”
Cr Wyatt said there were also some “exciting signs of renewal throughout the village”.
“New businesses, including Chez Coco Boulangerie, are opening their doors and adding to Kuranda’s vibrant food and hospitality offering.”
The Kuranda Rainforest Markets were purchased in 2005 by the current sellers, Malcolm and Gina Macleod.
The market covers approximately 11,000 square metres across three titles at 13, 5 & 7-11 Therwine Street, and includes retail shops, market stalls, residential units, and extensive on-site parking.
Marketing agent Sonia Poole of Ray White Cairns, Cairns Beaches and Palm Cove said last week that she could not comment on the number of EOIs, or further details, while the sale was ongoing.
