One of Douglas Shires oldest buildings, the Dixie Shed, will soon have its permanent position set in concrete at the current site of the SES Shed at 19 Wharf Street in Port Douglas, after being relocated from Dickson’s Inlet July last year.

The former Customs Boathouse was built around 1883, making it one of the most historically significant buildings in the Douglas Shire.

Council was informed of the proposed imminent demolition of Dixie’s Shed in May last year when Fisheries wanted to build a new shed.  Following the intervention of Council and Member for Cook Billy Gordon, the demolition was delayed and the removal of Dixie’s Shed to it’s current new location.

Saved from demolition courtesy of a last-minute agreement between Council, the Douglas Shire Historical Society and the Department of Fisheries, the Dixie Shed will now have its foundations permanently fixed in its new location.

The Chief Executive Office, Linda Cardew confirmed that at yesterday’s Ordinary Council Meeting, the long awaited funds have now been allocated to proceed with the restumping of the historic building.

“The restumping has been approved to proceed. Additional funds had to be allocated to the project.  The project was not in the initial capital works program but developed to save the shed from demolition,” said Ms Cardew.

As Dixie's Shed was not originally part of the adopted Capital Works program, the restumping had not been budgeted for. While $10,000 had previously been allocated toward the project, it is estimated the total costs of the restumping will be $40,000; therefore an additional $30,000 is required to complete the project.

“Council allocated the required funds to complete the project at [yesterday’s] Ordinary Council Meeting,” said Ms Cardew.

Council proposed that $30,000 be allocated from the Asset Register project budget, stating that more work needed to be done through the Asset Management Committee before those specific funds will be required.

On behalf of the Douglas Shire Historical Society (NQ) Inc., Mr Noel Weare said they are very grateful.

“We appreciate the Council’s input and finances for the work to ensure the Dixie Shed goes into the future.

“We also appreciate that Council’s specifications are in line with the Queensland Heritage Council, which will allow us to apply for heritage listing of the Dixie Shed,” said Mr Weare.

Ms Cardew advised the restumping should be completed within the next four weeks.