The recent opening of Petit Early Learning Journey in Port Douglas was a success, with 20 families signing up to the new childcare centre on the spot. 

The opening ran from 11am to 12pm and featured a jumping castle, sausage sizzle and even an interactive display of reptiles from the Wildlife Habitat - including a crocodile, snake and blue-tongued lizard. 

Douglas Shire Council mayor Julia Leu was also in attendance and cut a ceremonial ribbon opening the centre. 

Petit business development manager Chrissy Owens said it was great to see so much interest and attendance to the opening, despite the midsummer heat. 

“There was definitely a great turnout, which we love to see,” Ms Owens said. 

“A lot of families were commenting that there is a definite need for more childcare, and we like being able to give the families and children of Port Douglas more options for that.

“We’d really like to thank all the families turning up on the day, Mayor Julia Leu for officially opening the centre and of course our excellent and hardworking staff.”

Petit Early Learning Journey, which is located at the corner of Dickson Street and Old Port Road in Craiglie, has a capacity of 88 children. 

Families with children enrolled at the centre can also claim the government’s childcare rebate, cutting down on costs.