Multi-million dollar prawn farm expansion underway
PORT DOUGLAS
CONSTRUCTION of a multi-million-dollar expansion of a Port Douglas prawn farm is well underway.
In June last year, Gold Coast Marine Aquaculture was granted Council planning approval to begin construction of 21 new aquaculture ponds; the expansion of existing on-site processing and administration facilities; and a caretaker’s residence on the site off Captain Cook Highway.
Mayor Julia Leu said at the time the proposed expansion of the prawn farm showed great confidence in the local economy.
“The Douglas Shire’s economy is always going to be greatly reliant on the tourism industry due to our spectacular location and excellent range of tourism operators. But it’s just as important to support the growth of other industries,” she said.
“With dwindling fish stocks throughout the world, the aquaculture industry is emerging as vital to feeding our growing global population sustainably.
“I’d like to congratulate Gold Coast Marine Aquaculture for putting forward a comprehensive expansion proposal that recognises the importance of our environment and does not require the removal of vegetation or compromise the unique environmental character of the Shire.”
Leu said companies expansion into Port Douglas strengthened the Douglas Shire business community.
“We may be a tourist destination, but we are also a great location for innovative agriculture, aquaculture and industrial businesses to establish and grow,” she said.
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