Members of the community north of the Daintree River were concerned about the recent demolition of the Cow Bay toilets by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) in April this year.

Over a period of years the toilets had deteriorated tot eh extent that their use constituted a risk of injury to the public.  The QPWS took action for reasons of public safety and demolished the toilets. It was reported that council staff were not involved in the decision to demolish or remove the toilets.

Council reported that officers would be meeting and working with QPWS to discuss the provision and ongoing maintenance of toilet facilities north of the Daintree River, and consulting with the local community to develop a suitable solution for toilet facilities north of the river.

Douglas Shire Council resolved to advocate on behalf of the community for adequate and well maintained public toilets.

Mayor Julie Leu advised that council put in four new amenity facilities in the car park on the southern side of the Daintree Gateway this year as well as the upgrade of the Thorton Beach toilets together with maintaining the facilities at Diwan and advocating for the pending upgrade of the Cow Bay facilities.

“The new Douglas Council has substantially improved life for those needing to use the toilet while exploring our world heritage Daintree region.

“In the last 12 months we have installed new toilets at Thornton Beach and a further four new toilets at the Daintree Gateway, on the southern side of the ferry. Both these locations have desperately needed facilities for many years,” said Mayor Leu.

Council has now negotiated an agreement with the State Government to build new toilet facilities at Cow Bay.

“The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) demolished toilet facilities back in April and stated quite clearly that they did not intend to replace them.

“So, after significant lobbying by Council and the Daintree Coast Community Council, QPWS has now agreed to contribute up to $80,000 to build new toilet facilities on Council-controlled land which Council construct and maintain.

“As Mayor, I personally intervened , wrote to the Minister for National Parks, Dr Steven Miles requesting the toilets be replaced  and convened a meeting in Mossman with the Director General and invited members of the Daintree Coast Community Council to attend.

“I am very pleased to report that all is going according to plan,” advised Mayor Leu.

Council has received the deed of agreement from the State, which has been signed and  planning issues resolved. A site plan has been prepared and it is reported that quotes are currently being assessed. As the toilet will be located within an erosion prone area it must be a structure that can be removed, and the modular designs and associated waste system allow for this.

QPWS has also rebuilt the toilet block at the Kulki day use area at Cape Tribulation in Daintree National Park after he original toilet block was destroyed in an arson event in December 2014.

Principal Ranger Brett Stallbaum said the project had cost approximately $270,000, and works had included removing the fire-damaged infrastructure, rebuilding the toilets, and adding other improvements. The 10 toilets at Kulki now have improved wheelchair access.

“These toilets are much-needed facilities, and the news that they’ve reopened will be a great relief for everyone.

“It was a difficult task to retro-fit the existing facilities, and the builders have done a great job.

“QPWS used local contractors, and environmentally friendly decking materials that will stand up to the tropical climate.

“This is just one of several projects we are working on to keep improving the visitor experience in the Daintree,” Mr Stallbaum said.