Audit in the works for long-term lighting strategy
NAUTILUS STREET ASSAULT
Douglas Shire Mayor Julia Leu said today Council is currently working on an audit that will form part of a longer-term lighting strategy.
Her comments come in the wake of a 75-year-old Craiglie woman being injured after an alleged assault on Friday night in Port Douglas. Police were called to Nautilus Street – one of many unlit streets in the town – at 8.30pm after the woman was located injured in the street.
It had been reported that at approximately 6.30pm, the woman was walking along Nautilus Street towards Mitre Street when she was allegedly assaulted by two people. It is believed the force of the assault caused the woman to fall to the ground, knocking her unconscious.
It was further reported that the woman was left unconscious by the road for approximately two hours before passers-by found her and contacted police.
She received serious head injuries and was transported to the Mossman hospital in a serious condition.
“This is an absolutely terrible and uncharacteristic incident and our thoughts are with the victim and her family,” said Mayor Leu in a statement to Newsport.
“I urge any witnesses who were in the area between 6.30pm and 8.30pm, or any motorist who may have dashcam vision, to contact police.
“Council will wait for more details about the police investigation to emerge and will continue to work closely with local police to improve safety in the Douglas Shire.
“Council is currently working on an audit that will form part of a longer-term lighting strategy,” she said.
Police are still appealing for any witnesses who were in the area between 6.30pm and 8.30pm, or any motorist who may have dashcam vision to contact police.
If you have any information, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day.
Long-time Port Douglas residents Rob and Julie White said they were distressed that it had happened, but these incidents often have more to them than is at first apparent.
“We are sure the police will give it their full attention. If the attack occurred at 6.30 pm, as reported, it is still quite light.
“Regarding street lighting in general, we believe it’s Ergon’s responsibility rather than Council. Outages can take months to be rectified.
“It would be a great advantage to the whole town to have the foot and bike paths illuminated with low level lighting, so people can feel safe using them in the dark,” they said.
A Newsport reader said: “Prayers for the lady. It's just not right. And ... we're told there is little to no crime in the shire. Really? Break-ins. Assault. Drugs. Car thefts ... the list is growing.
“While Council has no control over the police force, a true leader would at least reach out to the Queensland police and seek better protection.....”
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