The Cairns Botanic Gardens is set for large scale renewal and transformation, with a multi-stage upgrade to enhance accessibility, improve visitor facilities, and celebrate the precinct's world-class tropical plant collections.
Cairns Regional Council today unveiled the Botanic Gardens Masterplan Review draft, which will guide staged improvements across the Flecker Botanic Gardens, Centenary Lakes, and Tanks Arts Centre precincts over the next five years.
Mayor Amy Eden said the upgrades would protect the Gardens' legacy while delivering new facilities for locals and visitors.
"The Cairns Botanic Gardens is already recognised as one of Australia's best tropical gardens. These works will make it even more welcoming, accessible, and vibrant," Cr Eden said.
"From lush new themed gardens, to modern all-abilities amenities, safer connections, and more shaded spaces, the Masterplan will breathe new life into a place that is loved by our community and admired around the world."
Key features of the upgrades include:
- New themed gardens in Flecker Gardens, showcasing diverse tropical species.
- Centenary Lakes Nature Play upgrade ($300,000) to inspire outdoor exploration for families.
- New interactive nursery and depot facilities to support ongoing plant conservation and horticultural excellence.
- Removal of ageing café and toilets, replaced with new accessible amenities in a more suitable location.
- Improved pathways and connectivity across the precinct
- Enhanced pedestrian safety on Collins Avenue with upgraded crossings and speed management.
- More shade, seating, and picnic facilities to improve comfort for visitors.
Staged delivery
The upgrades will be delivered in five stages from early 2026 to 2030, with initial works scheduled for early 2026 and focusing on the new themed gardens, Centenary Lakes nature play area, and improved amenities at Flecker Gardens.
Divisional Councillor Anna Middleton said the Masterplan Review was informed by extensive research, site analysis, and community feedback collected over the past three years.
"Moving forward this plan looks to improve facilities, access and grow the space to reflect a world class Botanical garden," she said.
"We look forward to hearing the community's input with this process.
"This stage approach means we can elevate the garden while preserving its unique botanical collection, beauty and heritage."
Tell us what you think
The Cairns Botanic Gardens precinct includes the Flecker Botanic Gardens, Tanks Arts Centre, and Centenary Lakes, a much-loved green heart of the city, located just minutes from the CBD and airport.
Community members can view the Masterplan Review draft and provide feedback on the Master Plan until 15 September.
Council will also have an information stand on the Botanic Gardens Masterplan Review draft at Carnival on Collins, 7 September.
The Masterplan draft is expected to be presented for Council endorsement later this year.
