Councillors praise local tourism body for effort in reigniting region following COVID pandemic
HIGH PRAISE
A trio of Douglas Shire Councillors have praised the ongoing work of local tourism officials following the submission of Tourism Port Douglas Daintree’s latest annual report to Council.
In it Douglas Shire Council acknowledged a host of achievements by TPDD over the past 12 months which notably included their efforts in helping the region “achieve its best year for domestic visitor nights since 2007 with 380,661 visitors staying 2,178,155 nights – an increase of 14% and 25% on 2019.”
In its regular monthly meeting held just hours ago Councillors also noted that in “2021-22 saw the highest income recorded for TPDD since 2006 at $681,925, which representing an increase of 57% on 2020-21.
Cr Abigail Noli was glowing in her review of TPPD’s recent efforts.
“I’d like to thank TPDD and the work they’ve provided the Shire over the past year,” Cr Noli expressed.
“I would also like to underpin that Council continues to support TPDD, they’ve always been exceptional in the way they’ve attracted visitors to the region.”
The Deputy Mayor echoed Ms Noli’s sentiments.
“It’s a great report, TPDD continue to push and promote tourism up here and it’s a job well done,” Cr Lisa Scomazzon said.
Meanwhile, Cr Roy Zammataro said “tourism is our lifeblood and we need to keep supporting them”.
Douglas Shire Council provided TPDD with $400,000 in their 2021-22 annual budget to help the tourism body deliver its initiatives across the Shire.
In other Council meeting news, Councillors were also glowing of the July – September report card submitted by CEO Rachel Brophy.
In it Ms Brophy complimented Council’s recent involvement and contribution to a number of recent events including NAIDOC week, Mossman show, Gran Fondo cycling festival and other events.
“The report is so beneficial for the public to read, because at times the public probably doesn’t see the work the Council is doing so through this report the public can see the outcomes Council has achieved over the past few months,” Cr Scomazzon said.
In other news Council unanimously voted to contribute $500 to Mossman State School’s upcoming awards presentation on November 16.
Lastly, matters surrounding the Daintree Ferry were due to be discussed however that was deferred until November’s meeting so up to date financials could be supplied and discussed.
Council next meets on November 29.