Full ahead for precinct work: Cairns DFO project in full swing as builders welcome dry season

Alicia Nally | Cairns Post

With the wet season over, changes to the Cairns DFO precinct are set to surge ahead.

During the coming weeks, Hutchinson Builders will start demolishing the ramp on the first level of the carpark closest to Mulgrave Rd and up to opposite Australia Post’s external mailboxes, a Sentinel Portfolio Management spokeswoman said.

The remainder of the multi-level carpark will stay intact with the new entry and exit to be relocated via the World Gym ramp.

The works are part of an overhaul of the shopping destination which began almost 12 months ago.

DFO Cairns is set to host a number of prominent food retailers, cafes and restaurants as well as a kids’ zone, green space and a large outdoor screen.

“Stage 1 was most affected by recent weather conditions, as Hutchinson’s had been unable to commence landscaping works,” the spokeswoman said.

“However, stage 2 works will commence as expected with both stages being completed simultaneously. In the coming weeks DFO customers will notice more significant changes as the carpark is demolished, playground is finalised and LED external screen is installed.

“The dining and entertainment precinct is currently anticipated to be completed late May/ early June 2018.”

DFOOD, a twist on the suburban food court offering, has been completed and includes new parents room facilities, upgrades to entrances and toilet facilities, more stores and entertainment options for locals, families and tourists.

“DFOOD will be a thriving dining precinct for Cairns residents and tourists to gather and enjoy a meal, entertainment and the Cairns atmosphere,” the SPM spokeswoman said.

“We hope it will become the destination of choice and a ‘hub’ where locals and tourists can enjoy sporting events, family flicks and seasonal entertainment.”