Letter of support provided for lagoon study
Douglas Shire Council has agreed to provide a letter of support for a grant application seeking funding to investigate a proposed Port Douglas Lagoon.
The request was put forward by the Rotary Club of Douglas FNQ, which is applying to the Queensland Government for funding to undertake a proof‑of‑concept feasibility study.
Council backs Port Shorts Film Festival for next three years
Douglas Shire Council has committed to a new three-year agreement to support the Port Shorts Film Festival from 2026 to 2028.
The festival will receive $30,000 annually, including cash funding and in-kind support.
The agreement ensures the continued use of Rex Smeal Park as the event venue.
Community grants delivered to support local projects
Three local community projects will share more than $25,000 in Council funding following approval at this week’s Ordinary Meeting.
Council has endorsed the allocation through its 2025/26 Community Grants Program, supporting initiatives focused on community facilities, local history and youth development.
Successful recipients include:
- Mossman Boat & Fishing Club – $10,000 to re-roof its clubhouse
- Low Isles Preservation Society – $10,000 for a portable Port Douglas Maritime Museum display
- Douglas Heat Basketball Club – $5,574 to expand its Mini Hoopers and Mini Ballers junior programs for children aged 2–7
Three projects were recommended for funding based on community benefit, value for money, and alignment with Council’s Corporate Plan.
Arts funding boost for shire projects
Council has endorsed $54,400 in funding for six local arts projects through the Regional Arts Development Fund.
A further $28,700 over two years will support a commemorative project marking 150 years of local history.
Council will also strengthen its advisory committee and develop a new Arts Action Plan for 2026–2028.
All initiatives will be delivered within the existing RADF budget.
Grant bid lodged to unlock Craiglie housing growth infrastructure
Council has retrospectively approved a $6.1 million grant application to support new water and sewer infrastructure in Craiglie, aimed at unlocking future housing growth.
The submission, lodged under the Queensland Government’s Residential Activation Fund, seeks funding for trunk infrastructure to service around 450 residential lots in the area.
No Council funding has been committed at this stage, with decisions on successful applications expected mid‑2026.
Grant bid aims to back coastal planning
Douglas Shire Council has retrospectively approved a grant application to progress coastal planning for Cow Bay and Oak Beach.
The submission, lodged under the QCoast2100 Program, seeks funding to develop shoreline erosion management plans to better understand and respond to coastal hazards.
No Council funding has been committed at this stage, with future budget allocations required only if the application is successful.
