A unique opportunity to enhance the heart of the Innisfail community
Published on 08 July 2026
Council is planning for the design and future reconstruction of the Innisfail Waterfront precinct to ensure it remains safe, functional and suitable for community and marine use.
The precinct’s marine infrastructure and community assets have served the community for many years, but are now showing signs of age and wear. As these assets near the end of their intended design life, their renewal presents an opportunity to consider the long-term needs of the Waterfront precinct as a whole.
The Waterfront precinct planning considers how the broader area could be developed over time, building on the existing CBD Masterplan to transform Innisfail’s Central Business District (CBD) into a vibrant and welcoming place loved by both locals and adored by visitors.
In planning these works, Council is also exploring opportunities to align necessary infrastructure renewal with community aspirations identified through the Innisfail CBD Revitalisation Master Plan.
The six key themes identified are:
- Revitalising and enhancing the waterfront.
- Enhancing our tropical landscape.
- Making Innisfail a destination to stop, stay, and enjoy.
- A place to express and experience our vibrant rich culture and heritage.
- Enhancing connectivity and accessibility.
- Creating an inclusive space, fostering belonging and community.
The purpose of this consultation is to:
- Gauge the level of support for the overall direction of the Innisfail Waterfront precinct.
- Understand community interest in the identified key focus areas as outlined within the CBD Revitalisation Master Plan.
- Identify community interest in recreational fishing and boating facilities within the waterfront precinct, including feedback on possible locations and access needs.
- Understand the level of interest for visitor accommodation and support for future tourism growth.
- Identify the level of support for a water play area to be incorporated into the Waterfront precinct, or an alternative location within Innisfail.
The community consultation process is intended to help inform Council’s future decision-making for the Waterfront precinct, including opportunities for tourism, activation, events, recreational access and the enhancement of Innisfail’s heritage and riverfront identity.
A range of possible future uses are being considered, and no decision has been made.
It will also help Council understand how different uses may coexist, or whether some activities may be better supported in different locations over time.
Future development is expected to be considered in stages and would be subject to further planning, funding, approvals and consultation where required.
Community members can provide feedback online via Council's Your Say page, complete a paper survey, or attend upcoming engagement opportunities during the consultation period.
Consultation closes Monday, 10 August 2026.
Quote attributable to Mayor Teresa Millwood
“The opportunity to revitalise and restore life into the Waterfront precinct is an exciting time for Innisfail and its surrounding communities.
As part of the Innisfail CBD Revitalisation Master Plan, enhancing the river's attractiveness provides the potential to become the drawcard for the city, placing Innisfail in a stronger position to attract future funding and economic growth.
With a focus on balancing commercial operations, recreational activities and tourism, the proposed development of the Waterfront precinct will become a place of community pride and connectivity.”
Photo caption: Draft illustration of proposed Innisfail CBD Waterfront precinct.
For further information contact Council at 1300 763 903 or email enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.