RICK STOKER

On the stroke of midnight New Year’s Eve, Port Douglas and Mossman and districts were released from the forced amalgamation with Cairns Regional Council.

One day later, on January 2, the new Douglas Shire Councillors were invested at an inauguration ceremony that was almost a case of ‘lock the doors’ to comply with crowd regulations.

More than 200 well-wishers crowded in to Mossman's council chambers, including dignitaries Federal Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch; Clink Theatre President Freda Harris;  president of the Neighbourhood Centre and Historic Society, Ray Legge; and local identity James Watson.

Former de-amalgamation Transfer Manager, now Acting CEO, Jeff Tate, acted as emcee. The crowd acknowledged Mr Tate for his excellent work overseeing the relatively smooth transition leading to commencement.

DSC Mayor Julia Leu, together with Councillors David Carey, Bruce Clark, Terrence Melchert and Abigail Noli, were sworn in.

Mayor Leu welcomed all attendees and thanked various supporters, including her PA Nicole Barton, and all who contributed.

Following their official induction into office, the first Douglas Shire Council meeting came to order. Two items were addressed:

• Election of a Deputy Mayor. Cr Noli was elected unopposed, stating she was humbled and excited, with no fear of the job ahead.
• Listing the dates of future Council meetings. The next would be 10am on January 3, 2014.

Cr Carey put forth a motion to thank Mayor Leu for her herculean effort in representing the Shire over the past six years. The motion received overwhelming support and was carried.

At the close of the meeting, attendees were treated to a song by local identity and internationally renowned Mezzo Sporano, Alteouise DeVaugh.

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