Locals to cash in on off-peak prices in magical Daintree
FREE TRAVEL
DOUGLAS Shire locals can cash in on special off-peak season deals and free travel on the Daintree River ferry these coming holidays.
Douglas Shire Council together with Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree are inviting locals from the Cassowary Coast, Cairns, Tablelands, Mareeba and Cook regional council areas to “come up and see us sometime – soon” and explore the area north of the Daintree River.
Mayor Julia Leu said the popular Douglas Card was being made available once again. It entitles residents from Cardwell to Cairns and Cooktown and points inland from Atherton and Mareeba to free travel on the Daintree Ferry between November 1 and February 28.
The free ferry travel is designed to encourage local self-drive residents to explore the special attractions and first class facilities provided by businesses and accommodation houses north of the river.
“There is so much to see and do and like most of us in the Tropical North, Daintree and Cape Tribulation-based tourism operators are passionate about their piece of paradise,” Leu said.
“I’m not trying to preach to the converted – we all live in a magical place with World Heritage scenic values, but each area has its own unique attractions and we look forward to introducing locals from across the region and their visitors to our special paradise.”
Tara Bennett, executive officer of Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree (TPDD), said there was a certain excitement in driving on to the ferry for the five-minute trip across the mighty Daintree River, which meanders for 140 kilometres and is home to bountiful fish, bird life, crocodiles and more.
The spectacular scenery continues, with ocean glimpses and lookouts along the rainforest canopied drive in the Daintree National Park through to Cape Tribulation and beyond.
“Whether you are travelling with children, friends or by yourself, it is time to rediscover the magic of the Daintree,” Bennett said.
“This is the world’s oldest living rainforest. Here you may see cassowaries, tree kangaroos, 50% of all Australian bird species and more.
Bennett said there are 25 different attractions, from electric mountain biking to zip lining in the rainforest, croc spotting, interpretive centres, beach horse riding and trips to the outer Great Barrier Reef.
More than 30 eco-certified businesses operate in the area with 40 unique places to stay, ranging from camping and homestay, to B&Bs, beach-front cottages and private rainforest cabins.
“There are also some great restaurants and eateries to experience,” Bennet said.
“Come and see where Daintree Tea is harvested, enjoy an ice-cream made from tropical fruit, walk along some of the 86km of secluded coastline, or just relax on the beach with a book.
“It’s all here, so ‘come up and see us sometime’ – soon. There really is no reason not to visit.”
Application forms for the Douglas Card are available from the Douglas Shire Council’s website, council’s Mossman Administration Building, the Mossman Library and the Port Douglas library kiosk.
Use of the Douglas Card is restricted to fare categories Motor Car and Utilities (private use), Pedestrians and Bicycles and Motor Bikes. To apply visit the Douglas Council Website.
