Cairns’ first 7-Eleven opening day delayed

A long-awaited Far North first has faced another setback, pushing back the launch of a global franchise in Cairns but jobs will soon be on offer.

Far North’s first and highly anticipated 7-Eleven has faced another setback, pushing back the opening to 2023.

The service and convenience store giant was first estimated to open by May and then by Christmas and now expected to open February or March 2023 — almost a year later.

“Our developers and construction team have been doing everything possible to get the site built and ready to open this year, but the weather has delayed construction,” said 7-Eleven Australia Area Lead North, Alan Plews.

The first 7-Eleven store on Sheridan St in North Cairns was initially estimated to open in May 2022. Picture: supplied.

Ahead of the store’s completion, Cairns man Justus Dower has been appointed as the 7-Eleven store leader and said he was excited to soon start recruiting some “great talent” in time for the opening.

“Our applications for team member roles will hopefully be open online before the end of the year,” Mr Dower said.

The 334-336 Sheridan St location, across the road from a Shell Coles Express, will be one of the first of five stores to be built in Cairns.

Cairns 7-Eleven store will be located on 334-336 Sheridan St in Cairns North. Picture: supplied.

The block of land was once home to an old Telstra building before it was bought by Edgecliff Property in September 2021 for $1.8m.

And now it is part of 7-Eleven’s $15m investment into the Far North and Townsville.

“Cairns and Townsville are the focal points of the company’s multimillion-dollar commitment to North Queensland, which will result in up to 15 stores being opened over the next two years,” Mr Plews said.

“This investment will create more than 100 jobs and drive economic growth in the areas in which we operate.

“As an Australian owned and operated company, 7-Eleven is proud to be investing in North Queensland and contributing to local communities.”

Local demolition company Anton Demolitions removed the old Telstra exchange building at the corner of Sheridan and Smith streets, Cairns North. Picture: Brendan Radke

The installation of stores will also bring with it Krispy Kreme doughnuts to Cairns — after years of local demand and petitions.

People are also encouraged to register their interest online prior to the formal opening of the application process.

“The team members we recruit will be provided with extensive training to deliver an excellent customer experience,” Mr Plews said.

“Previous work history in the petrol and convenience industry isn’t a requirement.”

Those interested can apply at www.7eleven.com.au/careers.

Originally published as Cairns’ first 7-Eleven opening day delayed