The third woman to sit on the Douglas Shire Council in 1996; the champion behind the Mossman Aged Care Facility development and building of key projects, was named as Douglas Shire’s Citizen of the Year at a special ceremony at the Port Douglas Community Hall on Saturday morning.

And in presenting her award, Douglas Shire Mayor Julia Leu said nurse Jo Dau, who has carved out a 53-year tenure at the local Red Cross, has spent decades striving for a better Douglas Shire.

“Although in her 80s, Jo continues to dedicate her time volunteering and she can often be seen at the Mossman Markets at the BBQ raising funds for the Red Cross,” said Leu.

“One of her most acclaimed positions came when Jo became the third woman to sit on the Douglas Shire Council in 1996 and brought a woman’s perspective to Council’s decisions.

“Jo is a true inspiration and has already left a legacy on our community that will be talked about for many years to come.”

During her seven years on Douglas Shire Council, Jo clocked up some major achievements such as the purchase of land on Johnston Road for the development of an aged care facility; the development of the Douglas Arts Committee in Mill Street; the expansion of the Douglas Library and the building of the Port Douglas Community Hall.

She also played a role in purchasing land in Mill St to allow for the Douglas Community Centre to expand and develop further initiatives.

Her other community positions include: Red Cross President (member for 53 years); Douglas Shire Aged Person Home Committee President (20 years); Mossman Pistol Club secretary (24 years); and Mossman Coast Guard member (22 years).