EXCLUSIVE: Former Douglas Shire Council employee Donna Graham has exclusively told Newsport today that she will be running for Council in the March election; and stressed the importance of Port Douglas having representation in Council chambers.

Ms Graham, who resigned her position as Manager, Development and Environment, before Christmas last year, preferred not to discuss why she vacated her role which she assumed in 2013.

“My focus at this point is to capitalise on the large base of supporters I have in Port Douglas and Mossman.

“It is also heartening that many approached me to run and besides this support, I believe I have the necessary background to be a solid candidate,” she told Newsport in this exclusive interview.

A former lawyer, Ms Graham has lived in the Shire for 20 years; she has an extensive background in tourism, not to mention her intimate knowledge of local government.

“There are many reasons driving me, but I feel strongly that Port Douglas needs representation on Council and I want to fill that role.

“It needs a voice, is a major hub for tourism and also brings a unique set of circumstances,” she said.

Cassandra Pulver of Newsport will be interviewing new candidate Donna Graham in the following days to provide a more in depth account why Donna is running in the March 19 local election.