Douglas Shire Council’s partnership with Renew Tropical Douglas is drawing to a close but the program has already left a positive imprint on Mossman’s main street.
The initiative — designed to activate vacant commercial spaces by matching them with emerging businesses, artists and community‑focused projects — has helped bring creativity and new activity into previously empty shopfronts.
The Red Seed Project, created by FNQ not‑for‑profit arts organisation CBFE Inc, became a popular addition to Front Street. Artist Victoria Lees transformed the former Lifeline store into a community art installation thanks to a subsidised rental agreement.
Victoria has since negotiated an ongoing arrangement with the landlord, ensuring the space can continue to host creative projects.
A neighbouring space was brought to life by Curios and Creatives, a welcoming drop‑in art and community hub launched by local resident Tanya Morris. While Tanya is now pursuing employment opportunities elsewhere, her store showed the appetite for creative, community‑driven spaces in Mossman.
Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the program had achieved exactly what Council hoped it would, with the assistance of LJ Hooker and a Front Street property owner.
“Council, with the assistance of Renew Tropical Douglas, was looking at ways we could shape and revitalise activity on Mossman’s main street, and I think we’ve achieved that,” Mayor Scomazzon said.
“Seeing empty shopfronts filled with art, colour and community energy has been incredibly encouraging.”
Mayor Scomazzon said she hoped the momentum continued beyond Council’s formal involvement.
“While our commitment with Renew Tropical Douglas draws to a close, I hope it has provided inspiration for landlords, entrepreneurs and creative thinkers to explore new ideas and new ways of using vacant spaces,” she said.
Renew Tropical Douglas is delivered in partnership with Renew Australia and the Queensland Small Business Commissioner, with support from Douglas Shire Council.
