As the calendar turns to 2026, the leaders steering the future of Far North Queensland have cast their gaze forward, sharing ambitious and heartfelt resolutions for the communities they serve. From tackling the housing crisis to supercharging tourism and protecting the region's unique environment, their goals paint a collective picture of a region poised for strategic growth and enhanced liveability.
A Focus on Homes, Jobs, and Community Wellbeing
Cairns Mayor Amy Eden has placed housing at the top of her agenda for the new year. She is determined to see construction commence on the first 100 homes at the controversial Cairns Water Security project site, a critical step in addressing the city's accommodation shortage. Alongside this, Mayor Eden is championing the development of a new performing arts centre, a project she believes will significantly boost the local arts scene and create vibrant community spaces.
Echoing the focus on foundational community needs, Queensland Treasurer and Member for Mulgrave, Curtis Pitt, has set his sights on job creation and economic stability. His resolution is firmly centred on fostering a strong economy that generates secure employment opportunities for residents across the region.
Driving Tourism and Economic Recovery
The tourism sector, a lifeblood for Far North Queensland, features prominently in the leaders' visions. Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO Mark Olsen has set a bold target: to achieve a record-breaking $3.34 billion in overnight visitor expenditure during 2026. This ambitious goal hinges on attracting more international flights and encouraging visitors to explore beyond the well-trodden paths, spreading economic benefits wider.
Advance Cairns CEO Jacinta Reddan is focusing on the infrastructure that supports growth. Her key resolution is to secure a financial commitment for the Cairns Water Security Stage 2 project from both the state and federal governments, recognising it as essential for future development. She is also pushing for progress on the Cairns Marine Precinct expansion and the Mount Peter Master Planned Area, seeing them as vital for long-term economic diversification.
Championing Youth, Culture, and the Environment
For Member for Leichhardt, Warren Entsch, the resolution is personal and community-oriented. He aims to dedicate more time to his family and his beloved cattle, while also focusing on local projects like the Wangetti Trail and the Cairns Performing Arts Centre. He emphasised a commitment to "fighting for the people" on issues that matter most to them.
James Cook University Chancellor Bill Tweddell is looking to the future by focusing on the region's youth. His resolution is to enhance pathways for students from Far North Queensland to access tertiary education, ensuring they can gain the skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow without having to leave home.
The cultural and environmental heartbeat of the region is also a priority. Gimuy Walubara Yidinji elder Dr Dorothy O'Grady-Eyre resolved to continue her relentless work in preserving Indigenous language and culture, a mission of immense importance. Biosecurity officer and wildlife carer Emma Jackson pledged to expand her efforts in protecting native animals from threats like the invasive yellow crazy ant, highlighting the ongoing environmental challenges the region faces.
From the concrete goals of infrastructure and economics to the nurturing of culture and environment, the resolutions of Far North Queensland's leaders for 2026 collectively underscore a drive to build a more prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive region for all who call it home.
