A new chapter for Mossman Youth Centre

At this week’s Ordinary Council meeting, a unanimous decision paved the way for a brighter future for local youth. Council approved a 10-year lease for Douglas Shire Community Services Association Ltd, more commonly known as Mossman Support Services, to add Coronation Park as an additional home for the Mossman Youth Centre.

This move marks a significant milestone for Mossman Support Services—which has been a cornerstone of community care since the late 1980s. Mossman Support Services has long operated the youth centre from a modest space. But after nearly three decades, the service has recognised the need for an active outdoor area to supplement the indoor space currently utilised.

The additional location, nestled within the fenced grounds at the south-eastern end of Coronation Park, offers a suitable environment for movement based activities, while the space connected to the Mossman Shire Hall will be used for the more quiet activities.

Mayor Lisa Scomazzon was happy with the outcome. “This is more than just a lease agreement—it’s an investment in the wellbeing of our young people and the future of our community.” She said.

Mossman Support Services CEO Heather McGillivray-Taylor says the additional space will be well utilised “ We look forward to the opportunities the space at the showgrounds will offer for small group projects in gardening and skill development and encouraging diversity as well as having the direct access to the oval for sporting and recreation opportunities” she said.

Savannah Sounds secured for three more years

Douglas Shire Council has officially agreed to lock in the return of Savannah Sounds, the much-loved three-day music festival that lit up Rex Smeal Park during the 2025 Port Douglas Carnivale.

Following the success of its debut—drawing over 3,200 attendees and contributing to a $5.3 million economic boost—Council has agreed to enter into a three-year Resource and Performance Agreement with Sound Australia, the production team behind the event. The agreement includes $80,000 in funding and $7,000 in in-kind support for 2026, with options to extend into 2027 and 2028 based on annual outcomes.

Mayor and Councillors praised the festival’s vibrant energy, diverse musical lineup, and its seamless integration into the Carnivale program. “Savannah Sounds has quickly become a signature experience for locals and visitors,” said Mayor Lisa Scomazzon. “It showcases the best of our region—music, culture, and the stunning backdrop of Rex Smeal Park.”

Organisers have also been commended for their respectful use of the park and collaboration with Council staff to ensure minimal impact on the site.

With this long-term agreement, Savannah Sounds is set to remain a highlight of the Port Douglas Carnivale—bringing rhythm, colour, and community spirit to the heart of the Shire for years to come.

James Dein, chief executive officer of Sound Australia, said the multi-year agreement would help secure the future of Savannah Sounds as a key feature of Port Douglas Carnivale.

“The level of investment from Douglas Shire Council ensures Savannah Sounds can continue to deliver an event that not only complements Port Douglas Carnivale’s program but also attracts new audiences to the region.

“We see this as an opportunity to build on the success of the first year and establish Savannah Sounds as a long-term fixture that supports both the community and the local visitor economy.

“We also acknowledge Council’s ongoing support in helping us grow a live music event that creates opportunities for local artists while attracting nationally recognised performers who elevate the overall experience and broaden the festival’s reach.”

Council greenlights community re-sale events to boost sustainability 

Council has given the green light to a new initiative that puts sustainability front and centre—endorsing a $30 stallholder fee for community re-sale events as part of its Waste Reduction and Recycling Plan 2025–2030.

The move supports a growing appetite for grassroots events like “Community Garage Sales” and themed second-hand markets,  where residents take the lead in reselling pre-loved goods to encourage reuse, recycle, and rethink waste.

“This is about empowering our community to be part of the solution,” said Mayor Lisa Scomazzon. “Re-sale events are fun, social, and environmentally smart. They give people a chance to declutter, connect with neighbours, and help everyday items find a second life.”

The $30 fee (plus a small processing charge) will help ensure stallholder commitment and cover essential costs like insurance and labour.

These events align with key goals in Council’s Waste Reduction and Recycling Plan, including support for circular economy initiatives and sustainable event practices. They also tie into the Waste Education and Behaviour Change Plan’s Garage Sale Trail Program—designed to reduce illegal dumping and engage residents in meaningful environmental action.

To learn more about the Waste Reduction and Recycling Plan 2025-2030 visit Council’s website here

Free mulch periods endorsed to support sustainability in Douglas Shire

Douglas Shire Council has endorsed an initiative that will make it easier for residents and businesses to access free mulch—supporting both environmental goals and community wellbeing.

Under the newly approved resolution, Council will waive fees for mulch sales at the Killaloe and Newell Transfer Stations during designated free mulch periods.

“This is a win for our environment and our community,” said Douglas Shire Council Mayor Lisa Scomazzon. “Free mulch periods help manage stockpiles, reduce landfill pressure, and give residents a chance to improve their gardens sustainably.”

Free mulch periods will be scheduled based on stockpile volumes and operational requirements, with the Resource Management team determining whether to offer mulch to domestic customers only or include commercial users as well.

Without this initiative, excess green waste would need to be transported to Springmount Landfill—an expensive and environmentally taxing option. By keeping mulch local and accessible, Council is advancing its waste diversion targets and reinforcing its commitment to sustainable resource management.

Residents are encouraged to keep an eye out for upcoming free mulch announcements and take part in this practical, eco-friendly opportunity.

Red lid rollout: Council backs bin harmonisation for a cleaner Douglas Shire 

Douglas Shire Council has taken a bold step toward cleaner waste streams and smarter recycling by endorsing a grant submission to the Queensland State Government GROW FOGO Fund for $118,025. The funding will support a bin harmonisation program that replaces outdated dark green lids on general waste bins with nationally compliant red lids across 4,721 Douglas Shire households.

If successful, Council will partner with Cleanaway to roll out this initiative which aims to reduce contamination, improve resource recovery, and align Douglas Shire’s waste services with the Australian Standards. The rollout will prioritise high-density areas and is expected to take 4–6 months.

“We’re incredibly thankful to the GROW FOGO Fund for the opportunity to submit this grant application.” Said Douglas Shire Council Mayor Lisa Scomazzon “Bin harmonisation is a vital step toward improving our waste systems and reducing contamination across the Shire. If successful, this funding will help us deliver a cleaner, more consistent service for our residents”

Council secures sustainable biosolids solution with Arkwood partnership

Douglas Shire Council has endorsed a new contract that will ensure the continued responsible management of biosolids across the region. At its Ordinary Meeting, Council awarded Contract 2025-064 to Arkwood (Gloucester) Pty Ltd for the regional removal and beneficial reuse of biosolids, commencing 1 October 2025 for a three-year term.

Biosolids—treated by-products of the wastewater process—are produced in significant volumes at the Port Douglas and Mossman treatment plants. With the current contract set to expire and limited suppliers available in Far North Queensland, Council has opted to continue its partnership with Arkwood, who offer a complete end-to-end service including collection, transport, testing, and land application.

Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon was supportive of the decision.

“This contract ensures we meet our environmental obligations while supporting sustainable agricultural practices,” she said.

The arrangement is part of a broader regional effort led by the Far North Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (FNQROC), which has helped streamline procurement and secure favourable terms for participating councils.