Overview
Summary
This project will upgrade 1.7 km of shared pathway along Port Douglas Road, between Lakeland Avenue (Mirage Country Club Roundabout) and Bale Drive (Barrier Reef Roundabout).
The improved pathway will be wider, easier to use, and better aligned, with clearer sightlines and safer separation from traffic. These changes will make it more comfortable and appealing for people to walk, ride, or scoot along this busy corridor, instead of using the road shoulder.
As seen with other pathway upgrades across the Shire, safer and more user-friendly paths encourage more people to get out and about, whether for commuting, exercise, or simply enjoying the area. This is especially important here, where limited public transport and strong tourism activity mean the pathway is used by a wide mix of locals and visitors.
This section is part of a key route in the Principal Cycle Network, designed to support higher use than a standard footpath. The upgrade will help reduce conflicts between users and create a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone.
Cost
The project is funded through a combination of Douglas Shire Council and external funding sources. The project has an estimated total cost of $2.57 million.
The contract has been structured into three separable portions of work, allowing delivery across three financial years (2025-26 to 2027-28). This approach ensures the works are staged to align with Council’s budget allocations from the Footpath Renewal Program.
Three Stage Project
Stage 1
- 740 metres from Mirage Country Club to the entrance to Reef Resort Villas.
- May 2026 to November 2026
Stage 2
- 680 metres from Reef Resort Villas to opposite Atoll Close (the banana stand)
- March 2027 to June 2027
Stage 3
- 310 metres from Atoll Close to Bale Drive
- July 2027 to November 2027
Updates
May 2026
Douglas Shire Council will commence site preparation work for the shared pathway upgrade Thursday 22 May, weather permitting.
in preparation for the upgrade of the pathway which runs alongside Port Douglas Road between the Mirage Country Club and Oaks Lagoon.
Work at the Mirage Country Club roundabout, will include:
- removal of one oil palm and two poincianas – marked in first photograph
- trimming of overhanging branches – second photograph
- removal of the rocks – third photograph
Work is scheduled for Thursday 21 May and Friday 22 May, weather permitting.
Douglas Shire’s Principal Cycle Network
For a overview of the Douglas Shire Principal Cycle Network, click here.
Enquiries
For more information or if you have any questions, please contact Liza Dowling on 0419 840 215 or email liza.dowling@douglas.qld.gov.au
