“Cairns Central is always looking for opportunities to enhance the centre, to meet the needs of our customers and retailers in Cairns,” said Centre Manager Christie-Lee Jackson.

“This exciting redevelopment will further cement our position as the largest and leading shopping centre in Far North Queensland.”

The announcement is in line with a new approach from Myer head office to shrink, rather than shut its stores across the country.

“Myer has been a part of the Cairns community for more than 20 years and this is great news for our loyal Cairns customers, team members and, importantly, for the local community,” said Myer Cairns Store Manager, Wayne Cosgrove.

“Works will include the complete refurbishment of Myer across a larger, single floor with an improved retail experience and an increased number of new and exclusive brands for local customers.

The inclusion of Woolworths will provide 80 extra jobs and supermarket competition to Coles, while anchoring  a new fresh food market hall featuring extra dining options and food retailers.

"We are thrilled to have secured one of the key retail tenancies,” said Woolworths Regional Property Manager Anthony Duggan.

“From fresh fruit and vegetables to a large range of grocery items at great prices, we look forward to delivering a modern convenient supermarket that will meet the needs of the Cairns Central shoppers well into the future."

The redevelopment will also include:

• A new vehicle express ramp to give customers direct access to the fresh food market hall.
• The implementation of ticketless parking and a parking guidance system.
• A children’s play area and additional parenting rooms.
• Ambience and amenities upgrades including bathrooms, furnishings and finishes.