The debate about the lagoon pool in Port Douglas may still be raging, but holiday fun began on the weekend with the reopening of the Sugarworld lagoon pools.

Cairns Regional Council opened the Sugarworld leisure facilities for the duration of official Queensland school holidays from Saturday.

Mayor Val Schier said Sugarworld was much loved and offered a wonderful asset to families in the southern reaches of Cairns.

“Officers have worked with the lessees to ensure the park facilities are open in time for the coming school holidays,” Cr Schier said.

“The resort style pools are surrounded by picnic and barbeque facilities, so families and groups can spend the day swimming and relaxing.”

The Sugarworld facilities include a 34 metre lagoon pool, a wading pool, a café and kiosk capable of hosting functions and picnic areas with barbeques.

“By this time next year the plan is to have the new waterslides completed and open.  In the meantime, people can still enjoy Sugarworld,” Cr Schier said.

“Mums, dads and children can grab the Esky and head on over to the gardens and have a fun day at an affordable price,” Division 2 Councillor Nancy Lanskey said .

“There’s plenty of deep shade in the picnic areas around the pools in the summer months and the landscaping of the park gives a beautiful tropical ambience.

“The all abilities playground has just been completed not far from the pools and adds another dimension to the day out.”

The four waterslides remain closed and are anticipated to re-open with brand new attractions in December 2011. 

Sugarworld opening hours will be 10am to 5pm weekends, public holidays and all Queensland state school holidays. 

The facilities will be closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day.  Entry fees will be $3 per adult and $2 per child.