DOUGLAS RATE PAYERS ASSOCIATION
Community First : Progress Always for the Next Generation of the Douglas Shire
Dear Douglas Rates Payers Association. The day my candidacy was officially formalized by the ECQ the first association I reached out to was the DRPA. I invited anyone and everyone to call or email me your concerns so I could refine my policies.
Since then I've enjoyed many conversations and received extremely valuable insights from local business owners, industry leaders and concerned ratepayers.
According to the current Douglas Shire Economic Development Strategy our total population is over 12000 people. We have over 1378 Local Businesses. There are over 6521 jobs, most are in Construction with 2596 alone in Tourism. The remainder are in Agriculture and other industries. We have an emerging work from home population, an innovation that increased greatly after covid, that I anticipate will also grow.
Tourism alone generates $611 million dollars a year. There is an enormous potential to increase the value of these industries and I'm committed to making this happen.
Recent weather events have made us all aware of our water and sewage infrastructure issues.
I emphasize the critical importance of prioritizing growth, development, and progress to secure priority funding and expedite essential projects in the region.
The stark reality is that States and Federal governments are primarily interested in expanding electorates. Therefore, to garner attention and secure the necessary resources for vital infrastructure and community initiatives, the Douglas Shire must demonstrate a clear commitment to growth and development.
The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated and I underscore the need for decisive action to propel the Douglas Shire into a new era of prosperity and resilience.
It's my belief that Craiglie, Mossman and areas north have enormous potential for growth.
I envision the industrial park in Craiglie becoming a thriving service area, attracting trades, services, and businesses that cater to the needs of the local community. I envision these areas growing into vibrant hubs of activity and opportunity.
Mossman and northern suburbs such as Cooya, Wonga and Newell, with their burgeoning housing estates and the recent acquisition of The Exchange hotel, presents an opportune moment for revitalization. I recognize the potential of Front Street and its tributaries to become a vibrant strip that attracts residents and visitors alike. By fostering a mix of retail, hotel, service and café establishments, I envision Front Street as a bustling thoroughfare that serves as a focal point for community engagement and economic activity.
Through a sensitive re- evaluation of the planning scheme, strategic planning and collaboration with local businesses and stakeholders, I seek to create an environment in Council where entrepreneurs and investors are encouraged to establish and expand their operations in Mossman and northern suburbs. By supporting small businesses and nurturing a thriving local economy, my aim is to enhance the quality of life for residents while also attracting tourists to experience the unique offerings of Mossman and the northern suburbs.
I lived in Forest Creek Daintree, crossing that river ferry every work day, for over a decade.
I absolutely loved living there, I have 2 Daintree ulcer scars which I wear as a badge of honor.
When I first arrived a visit to the Daintree was a must do. The ferry was full, the lines were long, the hotels, all campsites, hostels and restaurants were full. Slowly the numbers began to dwindle. Iconic hotels closed down and businesses shut their doors.
My commitment is to bring these areas back to where they were and return them to their iconic status. We need to re-visit the concept of a four lane ferry with double loading and departing. This would greatly improve the lives of local residents and inspire tourists to make that trip back up to Cape Tribulation and beyond.
Furthermore, I recognize the importance of addressing factors driving youth migration
In May 2023 I conducted an online survey in an effort to understand why our youth leave the shire after high school graduation.
Over 407 residents responded.
24% stated lack of job opportunities
24% stated cost of living & there being not enough to do as reasons for leaving the Douglas Shire
I aim to provide compelling reasons for young people to stay in the Douglas Shire and contribute to its vibrant future
With the average age of the Shire being 44 years of age, we need to allow for development and growth in the key industries of both Tourism and Agriculture so that our youth have something to stay for.
I see great potential for aged care expansion to contribute to the local economy and create job opportunities within the community. By investing in aged care infrastructure and services, I seek to stimulate economic growth while meeting the evolving needs of aging residents.
As a long-time resident of the Douglas Shire with over two decades of firsthand experience, I advocate for embracing growth and development as a means to enhance the prosperity and sustainability of the region. With a deep understanding of the Shire's unique character and potential, I believe that fostering growth will not only attract new residents but also unlock opportunities for funding, investment, and achieving community goals.
By welcoming newcomers and encouraging them to make the Douglas Shire their home, I envision a diverse and dynamic population that contributes to the richness of the local culture and economy.
Moreover, I emphasize the importance of attracting funding and investment to support essential infrastructure projects and community initiatives.
With a growing population and increased ratepayer base, I believe that the Douglas Shire could afford to pursue ambitious goals and tackle pressing challenges more effectively.
We MUST keep pushing ahead, we MUST keep pushing forward.
The Douglas Shire is a magnificent inheritance, we can and will find innovative, elegant solutions so that we retain her DNA, her specialness and her essence for the next generation.
I thank you for your time,
Michael Joseph Rees
DOUGLAS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Improving the quality of life for residents especially families, in the Douglas Shire involves safeguarding a strong economy, securing more job opportunities, enhancing infrastructure development, and promoting a higher standard of living.
COMMUNITY FIRST , PROGRESS ALWAYS FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
Economic Strategic Review Committee Douglas Shire Economic Development Strategy 2021-2024
Which , as a document, is very robust and co-authored by the very people in this room.
It identified the following.
DIVERSIFICATION IN AGRICULTURE, TOURISM AND POPULATION.
Agriculture – Diversify & innovate in agriculture our second largest industry at $26.5 M
One cane farmer I spoke to was relieved of the news at the mill however after years of selling his cane at, his figures, $30 a tonne to find out at harvest his cost were pushing $32 a tonne he realised a diversification was needed even suggesting hemp fibre as a possible alternative. It's this type of thinking we need to encourage.
As a Councillor I will continue the push to encourage our council to take the lead to coordinate and actually implement the proposed Agriculture Diversification Plan. This plan would involve ongoing input from various stakeholders, including farmers, industry experts, and government agencies, to create a shared vision and clear pathway for sustainable agricultural diversification within the Shire.
Collaboration with Industry Bodies such as the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, the council can identify the necessary tools and resources to support local farmers. This may include access to funding, technical assistance, training programs, and market research to help farmers explore new opportunities and navigate the diversification process effectively.
Promoting Innovation: by providing incentives or grants for pilot projects or research initiatives to can help incentivize experimentation and adoption of new practices.
Long-Term Support: and assistance is importan to farmers throughout the diversification process. This may include ongoing consultation, monitoring of progress, and adjustment of strategies based on feedback and changing market conditions.
Tourism – Diversify & expand our tourism offering a $611 million industry
The average Port Douglas Daintree visitor is aged between 45-54 years or 65+
707,000 Visitors, 2,478,000 Visitor nights, 6 nights Average length-of-stay, 2,596 Jobs
Financial and In-Kind Support to TPDD for destination marketing activities. This support can be allocated towards advertising campaigns, promotional materials, and other marketing initiatives aimed at attracting visitors to the region.
Destination Tourism Plan 2025 is another fantastic document. Working closely with TPDD, the council can assist in the implementation the 2025 Plan. This plan outlines strategies for attracting tourists, enhancing visitor experiences, and managing tourism growth in a sustainable manner.
An Events Strategy that aligns with the goals of the Destination Tourism industry. The strategy should focus on organizing events that appeal to a diverse range of visitors, encourage off-peak visitation, and promote cross-shire dispersal enhancing the overall liveability of the Douglas Shire.
Current efforts in appealing to the Japanese market for example, are working on a macro level however taking advantage of the micro levels of positive exchange rates and discounted fares for the American market should not be overlooked.
CONSTRAINTS FOR GROWTH are limited safe swimming and leisure areas with close proximity to beach also a lack of high end hotels which inspires a tourist choice to travel to the Douglas Shire and which inspires other hotels to upgrade, renovate and innovate.
As a councillor I would support anything that would eliminate these constraints
Population diversification – Targeted growth of the Shire’s population.
The average age in the Douglas Shire is 44. The national average is 38.
Planning Scheme Review of the existing planning scheme and zoning regulations to identify potential sites and business development opportunities conducive to health and wellbeing initiatives. This may involve identifying suitable locations for healthcare facilities, wellness centers, alternative therapy clinics, and other related businesses. Consider factors such as accessibility, infrastructure, and community needs when evaluating potential sites.
Promotion and Investment: Develop strategies to encourage investment in the health and wellbeing sector within the Douglas Shire. This may include offering incentives for businesses to establish operations in the area, facilitating networking opportunities between investors and potential stakeholders, and promoting the benefits of investing in health and wellbeing initiatives.
Community Engagement: Involve the community in discussions and decision-making processes related to health and wellbeing initiatives. Seek input from residents, healthcare professionals, businesses, and other stakeholders to ensure that development efforts align with community needs and priorities. Foster partnerships and collaborations between public and private entities to support the implementation of health and wellbeing projects that benefit the entire community.
Do not underestimate them work from home sector
Our latest data from the ABS, for August 2023, shows that 37 per cent of Australians work from home regularly.
We need to welcome and embrace this new demographic so they can contribute to our local economy.
Much of this it seems was slowed down substantially by interdynamics within the Council Chambers as evidenced by its public weekly meetings . As a Councillor I would commit to adhering to QLD legislation, working with anyone who is democratiallcy elected, in absolute good faith and determination, to resurrect the Economic Development Strategy so its goals can be delivered to the residents of the Douglas Shire
Thank you for your time
Michael Joseph Rees
DAINTREE COAST 360
The Daintree Rainforest was my home for over a decade, I thought they would carry me out in a box, maybe one day they will, but life happened and I was drawn away for a bit but it's so nice to be back home.
I understand your plight because I lived here.
I know what it's like to feel forgotten or overlooked. We can understand why Mossman and Port Douglas may receive extra attention but I feel the pendulum has gone to far and I want to bring balance back.
The Daintree is 80 million years OLDER than The Amazon, she is robust, almost invincible and can withstand more than most. I struggle with buy backs even though I directly benefited from it. I effectively denied three families a life that I had.
I'm all about diversity in Tourism.
The Daintree has had a history of very very successful Tourism. I remember the lines for the ferry were long but a resident this was good news because it meant residents had an income and there was a future for our kids.
Years ago all the hotels and hostels were teaming with people. Absolutely everyone got an ice-cream at the Daintree Ice cream Company or Floravillas. The Dragonfly cafe and The Cow Bay Pub were local Meccas.
Over the years this trend slowed substantially.
Just this morning, a neighbour Cathy Smith who worked on the ferry for years, told me that some of our most iconic locations in the Daintree were bought by people from the big cities essentially as tax right offs. I realise this is private enterprise but as a councillor I'll advocate for incentives to those who buy an ongoing concern in the Daintree, be it a hotel, motel or business. As a council we need to promote investment and incentives for those that keep business going.
The Port Douglas Daintree Destination Tourism Plan 2025 identifies an emerging market that we MUST embrace.
The Conscious Traveller
Open-minded and sustainable options. 86%
survey on booking.com want activities that offset the environmental impact of their stay.
The Green Consumer
Looking for eco-friendly activities and destinations.
Health and Wellbeing
Travellers are looking for eco friendly , health orientated experiences and activities.
We have all of these at our fingertips
As a Councillor I would advocate to diversify the Tourism sector to ensure Tourism Port Douglas Daintree expands its reach so we can reclaim the Daintree Rainforest as the iconic destination it is.
The ferry is currently owned by Douglas Shire Council and managed by a company who's parent company is overseas
We need to return, where possible, to local ownership and or operation.
I miss Chris and Charmaine who ran the Daintree Ferry for years.
Much like many other regional councils with a large footprint but low ratepayer base, State and Federal Government grants, which incidentally is an enormous strategy that Mareeba Shire advocates, is a very important strategy that the Douglas Shire must pursue.