The people behind the People of Douglas, the lobby group running the pro-amalgamation campaign, have hit back at claims they are a conglomerate of "faceless" individuals.

Wes and Kristein Connolly are principals of Oakdare Pty Ltd, and major contributors to the Vote No to De-amalgamation campaign.

Both said they are surprised and "somewhat bemused" at the ongoing speculation as to who is funding People Of Douglas, given that Ms Connolly posted a comment on The Newsport recently, expressing her disappointment at the removal of signs the couple had paid for.

“I was reading about the stir being caused by the giant billboard and posted a comment under my name.

“...I would like my personal property (signs) to remain where I have placed them as I live in a free country and should not have to defend my decision to vote No," Ms Connolly said.

“In addition, for two weeks now, our Vote No billboard has been driven around the region behind one of our trucks which is sign written with the Oakdare logo in very big letters."

Ms Connolly said she and her husband were now one of a number of people who had contributed funds, and there were many more supporters who had volunteered time.
 
Alison Gotts, co-owner of Cape Trib Exotic Fruit Farm and B & B in Cape Tribulation said they felt "like second class citizens" under the previous Douglas Shire Council.
 
“Under Cairns Regional Council we started to see infrastructure projects completed, like the Cooper Creek Causeway, which has had significant benefits to tourism in our part of the world," Ms Gotts said.

Allen Perry, founder of Coglin Mill, an international software company, developed the People Of Douglas website.
   
Mr Perry claims the People Of Douglas group represent people of varying backgrounds including farmers, tradies, contractors, investors, retailers, and many involved in the tourism industry, among others.

“Given the disrespect shown to people and property since the de-amalgamation poll was announced, it is little wonder that People Of Douglas supporters have been concerned about vindictive behaviour towards them and their family if they express an opinion.
   
"I respect their concerns and am happy to give them a platform to express their views without the threat of retribution,” he said.  

Wes Connolly said that a number of People Of Douglas supporters assumed that Friends Of Douglas Shire had been fuelling rumours about faceless men and secret agendas to side track the debate away from the real issues.

“If FODS had a strong argument they wouldn’t be playing these games," Mr Connelly said.

“The cost of de-amalgamation and the serious consequences it will have on both the business community and individuals isn’t a game.

“We don’t have a secret agenda, there are no faceless men – all people need to do is open their eyes.

“Our aim is to present the benefits of remaining with the (Cairns) Regional Council, and what the potential impacts of de-amalgamation are and we will continue to use all of our resources to do that, despite attempts by FODS to derail public debate.” he said.

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