Member for Cook, David Kempton has defended the timing of The Douglas Futures Forum, despite the meeting falling on a hectic week for the region's tourism industry.

The forum will be held this Thursday, overlapping with the end of the Australian Tourism Exchange in Cairns and just one day before the start of Carnivale in Port Douglas.

Mr Kempton said the timing was unfortunate but that he still expected a strong showing at the event.

"We've talked to the tourist industry and most representative bodies have told us they'll send someone along," he said. 

"I was aware of that [clash] but it's difficult to find the right time." 

Tourism and Small Business Minister, Jann Stuckey will be the keynote speaker at the forum and Mr Kempton will facilitate an open session on key community priorities. 

Similar events have already been held in Mareeba and Weipa.

"It avoids duplication and the ones I've done so far have been very, very successful," Mr Kempton said.

Mayor Julia Leu will outline a vision for the Douglas Shire at the meeting and R and R Group CEO, Leigh Ratcliffe will provide an overview of the Sheraton Mirage redevelopment.

The Douglas Futures Forum will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2014 from 9am – 12:30pm at the Port Douglas Community Hall.