Long held dream becomes a reality
BUSINESS FEATURE
A pair of familiar faces, long term locals and business owners with a co-interest in surf life saving have acted upon their passion of promoting and selling the amazing experiences of the Douglas Shire and beyond.
Known for their volunteer work with the Port Douglas Surf Life Saving Club and running both their own local businesses, Grant Knight and Irene Cats have now opened The Daintree Shop where locals and tourists alike can book reef, rainforest and just about every tour imaginable in Far North Queensland.
The new venture in the middle of Macrossan St in Port Douglas is a dream come true for the joint owners.
“I’ve had the idea for a Daintree information centre for many years, so when this top location became available we felt like it was our time to go for it,” Mr Knight explained to Newsport.
“It is our aim and promise to help people find the right tour for them.
“Information on the internet can be confusing and overwhelming and we’re here to guide people to the best experiences for them.
“Reef, rainforest, Kuranda, Tablelands, you name it and we can book it for you, without any booking fees!
If initial reaction is anything to go by, the pair is onto a winner.
“The positive feedback (since the recent opening) from locals has been amazing and encouraging,” Mr Knight said.
“I think the tour operators are happy the shop is still a tourism business, supporting local businesses, and the locals are excited to see our new colourful shop on the main street.”
While primarily a location to book tours The Daintree Shop also offers an array of brilliant local products.
“I love meeting the local producers and learning about their products and stories,” Ms Cats said.
“We stock local vanilla, Daintree Tea, Tea Chest Chai, Beach Harvest Coconut Chips, Daintree Estates Chocolate, Daintree honey, Daintree animal cookie cutters and freshly picked organic fruits from Daintree Exotics.
“They each make for a perfect souvenir or Christmas present.”
If you’re heading to four mile beach to soak up some rays then The Daintree shop also has you covered.
“You’ll have to pop in for a CoolCabana beach tent,” noted Ms Cats.
‘We absolutely love our CoolCabana and think it’s the perfect accessory for a day on Four Mile or Cape Tribulation Beach.”
The friendly duo had a last message to prospective guests and walk-ins.
“Please feel free to pop in for a look around,” they both said.
“We’ve got the aircon on and offer free chilled water and Daintree Iced Tea tasters.
“Our friendly team will be happy to help you find your perfect tour or souvenir.”
Follow The Daintree Shop on Facebook or Instagram. A website will go live in the coming weeks and months.