Douglas confirmed as Pirates film site

Tuesday October 7 2014, 3:30pm

Captain Jack Sparrow might not be able to get out of trouble in his next adventure, but Port Douglas will certainly get a lot out of it when production begins here next year.

Queensland’s Arts Minister has confirmed that Port Douglas will be a filming location for Pirates of the Caribbean 5, and has predicted the production will bring massive economic benefits to the area.

Douglas Shire Council is also celebrating the news.

Speaking to The Newsport by phone last week, Arts Minister Ian Walker said Port Douglas was currently the only on-location filming site being considered by Disney Studios, who are producing the film.

Filming will also take place at studios on the Gold Coast, with casting calls for minor roles also going out in that city.

Mr Walker said the production’s flow-on effects for Port Douglas and Queensland as a whole would be considerable.

“It’s estimated that on-location filming will result in a demand for about 20,000 bed nights in the middle of a slow tourism season,” Mr Walker said.

“Once the cast and crew arrive, all the other wheels start turning too - they need a coffee and lunch from the cafes, they need somewhere to relax and be entertained after the day’s shooting, so there is this huge list of benefits that come from this.”

Disney will spend $100 million in Queensland producing the film, and the state will serve as an exclusive filming location, beating out other international venues like Mexico.

Douglas Shire Councillor Terry Melchert also welcomed the announcment and said the town should take advantage of the production as much as possible.

“Stuidos want to film here not just because it’s a beautiful environment but also because this area is a safe place, we have the accomodation, the trades, the service economy and a plethora of other features to support a production like this - and it’s an hour away from an international airport,” Cr Melchert said.

“It’s safe, well-relaxed and friendly and it’s a place where famous people know they can stay anonymously.

“I’m very much looking forward to filming beginning and for the community to make the production crew’s time here as enjoyable as possible.”