DOUGLAS Shire Council has firmly locked in the future of commercial fishermen at the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina in Port Douglas.
Council approved a development application for a mooring facility, amenities building, wash-down bay and associated civil works at the Wharf Street at today’s Ordinary Council Meeting.
It comes after Council imposed a condition on the development permit that required the applicant to enter into Deed of Agreements to relocate a mooring facility and retain the Slipway.
Mayor Julia Leu said the fantastic outcome was a credit to Council’s gritty and relentless commitment to protecting the region’s iconic fishing industry.
“Port Douglas was built on the blood and sweat of commercial fishermen, who continues to be such a vital part of our local economy,” she said.
“That rich history plays a vital role in defining the town’s character and this development not only supports that industry, it consolidates Port Douglas a major tourist centre and protects the sensitive environment that adds to the town’s identity.”
“I could not be more thrilled with the opportunity for a fishermen’s wharf to open down the track, where people buy fresh and local seafood straight from the boat.”
Council issued the Port Douglas Commercial Fishermen’s Association (PDCFA) with a Permit to Occupy about 600 square metres of Lot 96 next to the new proposed marina berths last year.
The application sought to obtain the statutory approvals from Council and State Authorities required to facilitate the relocation of the Port Douglas Commercial Fishermen, as required by the Deed of Agreement between The Reef Marina Pty Ltd, Douglas Shire Council and the Port Douglas Commercial Fishermen’s Association Inc.
“This fantastic result is the product of extensive consultation between Council and the PDCFA,” Mayor Leu said.
