Australian Heritage Week is a new annual national celebration to draw attention to our country's unique past, and the Douglas Shire Historical Society (DSHS) is offering people the chance to learn more about the place in which we live.

Secretary of the DSHS, Pam Willis-Burden, said Australian Heritage Week encourages residents to learn more about the region's history.

" It gives everyone a special time to remember our past and realise how our history has contributed to our country's growth. The Douglas region has many heritage features to cherish including seven Queensland heritage listed buildings.

"History makes our community what it is today, so please come and share our heritage stories. Join our free guided walks this weekend - get some exercise with the kids and dog and at the same time learn more about our area's past."

WHAT"S ON

Saturday 16 April - Free guided walk of Mossman. 

Join members of the Douglas Shire Historical Society for a stroll around Mossman with commentary.  Learn about the history and hear tasty tales of days gone by. 

Meet at the Mossman Triangle at 8.30am.  The walk will take about 2 hours, with cups of tea at the Mossman CWA to refresh everyone at the end.

Sunday 17 April - Free guided walk of Port Douglas. 

Historical Society members will guide you through the Village, describing heritage sites and telling local stories, so you'll appreciate our town even more. 

Cups of tea and bikkies at the Court House Museum at the end of the two and a half hour stroll.

Meet at the Bally Hooley Railway Station at the Marina at 8.30am.

Wednesday 20 April - Launch of the Daintree Heritage Trail at the Daintree Store at 2pm.

Locals are very welcome to come along and get together. Ten new photo posts in the Village pinpointing historic sites have been funded by grant from Queensland Government's DEEDI. 

Special guests from far away will be attending.

For more information call the DSHS on 4098 4900.