The Process

Throughout the 2023-2024 wet season, the Kuranda Amphitheatre Society coordinated three workshops & a parallel online process that the community and membership were encouraged to participate in, to develop a Master plan for the Kuranda Amphitheatre facility and grounds. The plan includes facility improvements, refurbishments, and new features, to ensure the Amphitheatre continues to support performing arts, live music, and cultural and community activities as it has done for nearly 50 years.

Many Thanks to

The Kuranda Amphitheatre Master Plan 2025–2035 was made possible through funding from the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR), under the Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC) Small & Vital stream. Engagement practitioner Tonielle Christensen facilitated the workshops, and the results were developed into professional concept drawings for improvements to four key zones of the Amphitheatre (the Main stage, the Under stage, the Top pavilion, and the gatehouse) by building designer Zachary Barclay of Zero Emissions Designs. Designer Blake Hudson created a landscape plan.

Future Proofing the Amphitheatre

To future-proof the Kuranda Amphitheatre and ensure its cultural and community function for the future, the master plan will be supported by a comprehensive 5-year Facility Maintenance Plan. The grant funded a building and pest report conducted by Cairns-based company All Building Inspections Pty Ltd. Based on their recommendations, a group of knowledgeable volunteers developed a 5-year maintenance plan for the Amphitheatre.

This process was also supported by a Zero Waste Strategy and a Net Zero Carbon Plan for the Amphitheatre, aligning with community environmental values and positioning the Amphitheatre to have a light footprint on the earth.

Kuranda Amphitheatre Master Plan Focus

The overarching aim is to undertake critical capital works to ensure the Kuranda Amphitheatre Society Inc. remains an iconic venue for years to come. The Master Plan focuses on:

1. Establishing a community-driven vision for the Amphitheatre’s growth and renewal.
2. Identifying community priorities and grassroots ideas for upgrades and refurbishments.
3. Guiding future committee members on facility management and maintenance over the next decade.
4. Providing a solid evidence base for future funding submissions and grant applications.

This comprehensive plan positions the Amphitheatre to thrive over the next decade as a vibrant hub for the performing arts, cultural events, youth activities & community togetherness.

The Kuranda Amphitheatre sincerely thanks all the people who contributed to this process and to FRRR for providing the funding which made it possible.