Community & Business
7 December, 2022
Year of development for Douglas Shire
IT was the year for development in the Douglas Shire with council’s recent annual report revealing 265 development applications were made over the past year.
At a recent meeting councillors approved the 2021-22 annual report which looked at key aspects of council’s operations over the past year including key road upgrades and the completion of 71 capital works projects.
Some of the most important capital works’ projects completed were the $1.8 million Killaloe Resource Recovery Centre, the $10 million northern roads package, the Mossman to Cooya Beach Cycleway and stage one of the Smart Water Meter Program.
Council has also made strides in rectifying their previous $2.9 million operating deficit with the report detailing the deficit now only sits at $601,800.
Douglas Mayor Michael Kerr said the annual report provided an overview of Council’s performance and achievement.
“Douglas has stood tall and emerged in a desirable financial position compared to other similar-sized regions,” he said.
“We have experienced a tourism season like no other, with domestic tourists re-discovering our unique pocket of paradise, and council has continued to provide the high level of service expected by locals and travellers.
“The annual report details council’s ability to be prudent financial managers and keep delivering for the community.”
The Port Douglas Carnival returned and continued to be a roaring success, generating about $5.3 million worth of economic activity and contributing to more than 20,000 visitor nights across 10 days in May.
Council also redoubled its efforts in attracting investing in the region and supporting local businesses though the revamped Do It In Douglas campaign.
Mayor Kerr said council’s focus going forward was to continue to deliver critical services and support the community.
“The tourism bounce back has been tremendous and we have seen more domestic visitors here than before the pandemic,” he said.
“Though challenges lay ahead, our strong team is dedicated to serving the community and improving how we do business.”
