General News
21 June, 2026
Yielding to town’s angst
STRONG community response over plans for the Warrina Lakes historic ‘cow sheds’ building in Innisfail has prompted council to extend its consultation process.
A concept design recently put out for public feedback by Cassowary Coast Regional Council included architectural drawings for a completely new building to replace the structure.
Many in the community wanted to know why council was proposing to replace, rather than renovate and retain the building for its historical characteristics.
Among those against replacing the “cow sheds” building are Allison Parisi and her brother Bob Robson, whose father – cane and cattle farmer Maurice Robson – dismantled and re-erected the structure in the early 1970s (The Observer, 10 May edition).
In a community update, council says it has “listened carefully to the strong community feedback” about the building’s future.
“We have heard a diverse range of views and recognise the passion, commitment and personal connections many people have to this important community space,” the council statement said.
“One of the strongest themes emerging from the feedback is the community’s desire to preserve the character and identity of the building while ensuring the site remains safe, functional and accessible for future generations,” it said.
Council said during the feedback process, it had also received requests for more detail about the existing building, the proposed concept design and the options available for the site’s future.
“To support informed community feedback, council will extend the consultation period and provide additional information on the condition of the existing building, compliance requirements, maintenance considerations and other factors relevant to the project’s future,” council’s statement said.
“No decision has been made, and council is continuing to review community feedback while preparing this information.
“Community members will also have the opportunity to speak with the project team at the upcoming Innisfail Show, ask questions and learn more about the project.”
Having originally closed on 30 May, the Warrina Lakes building design consultation process has now been extended until 11 July and submissions can be made until then through council’s ‘Have Your Say’ website portal.
The Observer invited council to respond to a passionate letter from Mrs Parisi to both council and the newspaper, recounting the roles her father and brother had in reconstructing the cow sheds building at its current Warrina Lakes location.
“For many residents, the cow sheds are far more than a collection of timber and iron. They are a landmark with a story deeply woven into local history,” she said in the letter.
“Before becoming the much-loved venue they are today, the structures served as part of Romano’s sawmill, once located on the site now occupied by the Barrier Reef Motel.”
Read More: Innisfail