General News
12 October, 2026
‘Cow sheds’ need repairs
CASSOWARY Coast Regional Council has warned that repairs to the Warrina Lakes ‘cow sheds’ will be required to lessen the risk of damage during bad weather or another significant event.
“Preliminary findings from the reports commissioned to date indicate the building presents risks that require attention,” a council report said.
“As a result, short-term risk mitigation works are likely to be required regardless of the long-term approach ultimately adopted.”
Following a 10-week consultation period about the future, council has resolved to establish a stakeholder reference group to help guide the future of the Warrina Lakes building, as it continues its consideration of a community petition and a range of technical investigations into the facility.
“We received the petition on 21 July 2026 and it was formally received at our local government meeting on 27 August 2026,” the report said.
“The petition called for the proposed plan for the shed to be abandoned and for the existing building to be restored, including upgraded kitchen and toilet facilities.
“To support informed decision-making, we commissioned several reports on the Warrina Lakes building, including a structural condition report, building services condition reports, community engagement and consultation results report, funding opportunities advice and a technical risk mitigation study.
“At this stage, we have not determined whether the building will be refurbished or rebuilt.
“However, we have ruled out a do-nothing approach due to identified building and asset risks.
“Our 10-week community engagement process on the building’s future generated strong interest, including 230 survey responses.
“Feedback highlighted support for retaining the building’s community role while improving amenity, accessibility and functionality”.
The stakeholder reference group will include up to nine external members drawn from a broad range of community and stakeholder groups.
“The group is advisory only and will not bind council’s decision-making,” the report said.
“Its role will be to review technical information, provide feedback on refurbishment and rebuild approaches and may contribute design input should council decide to pursue a new building.
“Details on how community members and organisations can register their interest in joining the group will be announced in the coming weeks.”
A further report will be presented following technical investigations and input from the stakeholder reference group to recommend a renewal strategy for the Warrina Lakes building”.
Mayor Teresa Millwood said council “understands the community cares deeply about the future of the Warrina Lakes building”.
“Council’s role is to carefully consider the petition, the technical investigations and community feedback so we can determine the most appropriate, safe and sustainable way forward,” she said.
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