After much community consultation and research the ongoing decision has finally reached a verdict - a limited number of hot food stalls will be allowed into Port Douglas Market, but, with very strict guidelines.

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At the DSC council meeting last Tuesday, there was very little debate over whether the introduction of hot food vendors at the markets would have a negative impact on local businesses or the Port Douglas Markets themselves.  In fact according to the Port Douglas Market Information Paper, “during the course of the day, 3000 people can attend the markets during the high season.”

“I have watched the markets grow since the last 25 years and it is a huge market now and in one of the best locations in Australia.  The fact that it has brought in so much business and people into Port Douglas on a sunday is an absolute positive, I actually don’t think it will be a detriment to local business it will only be a positive,” said Mayor Julia at the meeting.

Cr Noli was happy to move the decision, “ I believe this is another step forward in showcasing our region in terms of local produce and the talents of the people living here.

“We have proposed an ideal spot which will encourage lingering and make for great gathering points for family and friends and it will just add another experience to the markets,” she said.

Cr Melchert voiced some initial concern for local businesses and the length of the hot food stalls tenure.  “In councils review there were a number of businesses that it might impact on negatively, it’s just the fact it’s going to be for 3 years with a limited number of hot food stalls. I really do hope the numbers go with it. I do worry about the impact it will have on some small business,” he said.

Cr Clarke said the decision will bring Port Douglas Markets in line with North Queensland regional markets.

Cr Carey, after looking in more detail at the responses, had little to no objection.

The mayor was adamant that DSC will only be approving innovative and multicultural type cuisine.  “It is not going to be the same old type of stuff like hamburgers and chips. People want to see something that is more reflective of the uniqueness of our area and we have a huge amount of local produce and cuisine. So it’s not about some ghastly type of battered food its about something pleasant,” she said.

The DSC released the announcement yesterday.

Council has endorsed a recommendation to allow a limited number of hot food stalls at the world-famous markets to meet a perceived visitor need and provide opportunities for suitable small business applicants to promote and develop a new economic initiative.

Mayor Julia Leu said there was overwhelming support to allow a limited number of innovative hot food stalls in online and manual surveys conducted by Council.

“Of the 144 survey respondents to the survey question, ‘Are you supportive of hot food at the Port Douglas Markets?’, Council received 116 responses in support and 28 against,” Mayor Leu said.

“We have arguably the most breathtaking markets location in the world, the ‘Cotters’ theme ensures the items available for sale are unique and complimentary to our tropical lifestyle and introducing a limited number of hot food stalls will only enhance the Port Douglas Markets experience for locals and visitors alike.

“The markets attract thousands of people every week and benefit local retail outlets and restaurants in the Port Douglas CBD and having a limited number of innovative hot food stalls will not diminish these economic benefits.

“It also presents an exciting opportunity for potential local hot food vendors to come up with concepts that showcase our multicultural and tropical heritage and promote the use of local produce.”

Council will now publicly advertise for applications to establish hot food stalls, which will be established at a “hot spot” adjacent to Rex Smeal Park on the eastern side of Market Park.