$1m transformation in the works for animal shelter

A much-loved Cairns institution that holds a special place in the heart of dog lovers is getting a million dollar facelift. Find out what’s in store.

A much-loved Cairns institution that holds a special place in the heart of dog lovers is getting a million dollar facelift and more.

Construction is set to start in the coming weeks on a new administration building and improved kennel facilities at the Young Animal Protection Society (YAPS) in Smithfield, following an election commitment in 2020.

Martin Reed, Vice President of YAPS, said the Smithfield facility, which only housed dogs, had occupied the area for almost 38 years and upgrades are well due and have been a long time coming.

“Its been four or five years from initial conception with the committee thinking about it, working out what they want to do, applying for it and so on,” Mr Reed said.

“We very much appreciate the efforts of Craig Crawford who has assisted us in being granted the funding to allow YAPS to build this new facility, which will replace what we currently have.

YAPS Vice President Martin Reed with Shenzi, one of eight "lion king" puppies from Kowanyama, standing in front of the land that is being readied for construction. Picture: Sandhya Ram

“Essentially, there’s two parts to it – what we will end up with is a new reception and administration front office, brand new kitchen, new food storage, new laundry and linen storage, staffroom, toilets, showers, dog wash area and a new caretaker’s cottage all in one complex.”

Mr Reed said part two of the plan involved getting up a storage shed instead of using old shipping containers, building of a little meeting and conference room, and the gutting of a large old kennel for airconditioned boarding kennels.

“Weather permitting, I would expect it to take 12-18 months with fit out and handover,” Mr Reed said.

Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said he was proud to have championed the $1m project funded by the Palaszczuk Government.

“YAPS is a fantastic Cairns organisation that cares for abandoned dogs and cats, as well as providing a popular boarding service for family pets,’’ Mr Crawford said.

“The staff and volunteers at YAPS do a brilliant job and thoroughly deserve to have decent facilities to do their invaluable work. Projects like this will provide a clear community benefit while creating local jobs for our tradies.”

Rambunctious Roxie may be an older girl but is full of spirits, even as she goes through heartworm treatment. She will up for adoption soon. Picture: Sandhya Ram

YAPS also runs a centre in Bungalow, which houses cats for adoption and boarding.

The Smithfield centre is expected to be revamped and ready by June 2024, according to YAPS president Margaret Cochrane.

Originally published as $1m transformation in the works for animal shelter