Douglas 150

Commemorating 150 years of the Douglas region

Douglas Shire Historical Society
Learn more

A message from Douglas Shire Mayor, Lisa Scomazzon

One hundred and fifty years is a remarkable milestone for Douglas Shire. In 1877, key moments such as the surveying of Port Douglas, the opening of the Bump Track and the establishment of Mossman’s earliest farms set the foundations for the communities we know today. At the same time, land across the Daintree region, including around Baileys Creek, was being opened for settlement and future agricultural development. These events marked a period of progress and possibility that helped shape the region for generations to come.

Long before this, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples cared for these lands, waters and sea Country for thousands of years. Their enduring connection remains central to our identity and to the story we honour during this anniversary year.

As we commemorate 150 years, we reflect on a history shaped by resilience, enterprise and community spirit. Through challenges, change and growth, the people of Douglas have consistently supported one another and built thriving communities in one of Australia’s most extraordinary landscapes.

This milestone is not only a chance to look back with gratitude, but to come together as a community today. I invite everyone — families, schools, businesses, volunteers and community groups — to join us in commemorating stories that have shaped Douglas Shire.

Get Involved or Share Your Ideas

Do you have a great idea, want to be involved in this once‑in‑a‑lifetime 150‑year anniversary, or have old photos or videos to share? We’d love to hear from you — your input helps shape this milestone year.

Complete the form below to share your ideas or to RSVP to the community workshop

Share your ideas below

Name
Would you like to be involved in any of the below(Required)
Where did you hear about this initiative?(Required)
Would you like a reply?(Required)

Introducing the official Douglas 150 Logo

Created by local designer Lisa Previte, the winning design—chosen from a strong field of entries in Council’s Douglas 150 logo competition—draws inspiration from the Shire’s coastal beaches, the Great Barrier Reef, Mossman Gorge and surrounding rainforest, capturing the region’s tropical lifestyle and iconic sense of place.