Lake Placid has officially reopened to the public following the completion of a $1.1 million restoration project to repair and revitalise the much-loved Cairns recreational site after severe damage caused by Tropical Cyclone Jasper.
The site, located on Council-owned land in Caravonica, was significantly impacted by flooding in December 2023, forcing its closure while extensive repairs and safety works were undertaken.
The completed project, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, has delivered major upgrades to essential infrastructure and public amenities, ensuring Lake Placid can once again be safely enjoyed by locals and visitors.
Key works completed as part of the restoration include the replacement and upgrading of electrical, sewer and water services, construction of a new viewing platform, repairs to pathways, rock walls and retaining structures, and landscaping and site stabilisation to improve safety and accessibility.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the project ensured Lake Placid was not only restored to its former glory, but equipped to face severe weather events in the future
"Projects like this play an important role in restoring a sense of normalcy for communities impacted by disasters.
"It shows just how far on the recovery journey they've come.
"I'd like to congratulate council and everyone involved in this project for this achievement and hope locals and visitors enjoy the space."
Member for Barron River and Assistant Minister for Tourism and Far North Queensland Bree James said she was pleased to see the area restored.
"Lake Placid is a beautiful green space for both locals and visitors, and its reopening means more opportunities to swap screen time for green time and reconnect with nature.
"I'm proud of the joint investment into the recovery of this much-loved area of Far North Queensland.
"Council has done an incredible job restoring the area with this funding, and I encourage locals and visitors to get out and enjoy this beautiful part of our region."
Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said the reopening marks an important milestone in the city's recovery.
"Lake Placid is a place of memories, connection and natural beauty, and reopening it is a proud moment for our community," Cr Eden said.
"This project is a true representation of the resilience of Cairns. We were hit hard by Cyclone Jasper, but together we have rebuilt stronger and smarter.
"Seeing people return to enjoy this incredible location reminds us why investing in community spaces matters so much."
Division 8 Councillor Rhonda Coghlan said reopening the site was welcome news for residents who had patiently waited for access to return.
"I know how much Lake Placid means to the community, and I want to thank residents for their patience while this complex recovery took place," Cr Coghlan said.
"The focus had to be on safety, essential infrastructure and environmental repairs first, and it's fantastic to now see the site open again and ready for the next chapter."
Council would like to acknowledge the funding allocation of $668,678, 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 has assisted to deliver.
