Lake Placid Restored After TC Jasper Damage
Work is set to begin next month on repairing Lake Placid, a popular Cairns recreational site that was severely damaged by flooding during Tropical Cyclone Jasper in December 2023.
The site – located on Council-owned land – has historically hosted a takeaway shop, café, and restaurant.
Plans to lease it to Cairns Adventure Group for a new rafting centre, café, and training facility were approved in November 2023, but progress was halted by the cyclone’s impact.
With pre-construction tasks now complete – including design, permitting, and demolition planning for the former restaurant – Council is moving ahead with comprehensive restoration. Key works include:
The total cost of the works is estimated at $1.1 million.
Council would like to acknowledge the funding allocation of $573,678 being jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements that the Department of Sport, Racing and Olympic and Paralympic Games are assisting to deliver.
“Restoring pride in a place that brings people together”
Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said the project is about more than infrastructure.
“Lake Placid holds a special place in the hearts of many Cairns locals, and its restoration is a symbol of our community’s resilience after the devastation of Tropical Cyclone Jasper,” she said.
“This project is about more than rebuilding infrastructure – it’s about restoring pride in a place that brings people together.
“Once completed, Lake Placid will be a revitalised hub for outdoor recreation and connection that our city can be proud of.”
Division 8 Councillor Rhonda Coghlan acknowledged frustrations over the delays but noted the need to prioritise essential services first.
“Like the community, I too have been frustrated by how long it has taken for things to start moving,” Cr Coghlan said.
“Council has been working with all levels of government to prioritise essential services and environmental rectifications first before turning its attention to recreational assets such as Lake Placid now.”
Work is expected to be completed by year’s end, weather permitting.
Meanwhile, Cairns Adventure Group is preparing revised development plans for Council consideration, with a commitment to begin soon after repairs are completed.
Cairns Adventure Group Director Roderic Rees said the company is excited to move forward with its plans, which align with principles of eco-tourism, sustainability, and community inclusion.
“Lake Placid and the Barron Gorge hold a special place in our hearts,” he said.
“This new facility is a step forward in enhancing the experience for our guests while creating a welcoming space for the local community.”
The proposed redevelopment includes a modern rafting centre, improved amenities, and a new café designed to create a vibrant and relaxed atmosphere for both locals and tourists.
“Our commitment to eco-tourism and a sustainable build is something we, as a company, want to be proud of,” Mr Rees said.
“While we understand the frustrations caused by the extended timeframes and closures, we want to thank and applaud the efforts that have brought us to this point.”
Council also plans to reconstruct Barron Gorge Road, which has been closed since December due to landslips and washouts from the cyclone.
Work on the road is expected to begin shortly.
https://www.cairns.qld.gov.au/council/news-notices/media-releases/media-releases/lake-placid