Aquaculture has received a significant boost with the Douglas Shire Council approving a multi-million-dollar expansion of a Port Douglas prawn farm.

Gold Coast Marine Aquaculture has been granted planning approval to begin construction of 21 new aquaculture ponds, the expansion of existing on-site processing and administration facilities and a caretaker’s residence on the site off Captain Cook Highway.

Mayor Julia Leu said the proposed expansion of the prawn farm showed great confidence in the local economy.

“The fact the company has chosen its Port Douglas farm as the best location for this multi-million-dollar expansion sends a message to the wider business community that the Douglas Shire is well and truly open for business.

“We may be a tourist destination, but we are also a great location for innovative agriculture, aquaculture and industrial businesses to establish and grow,” she said.

“The Douglas Shire’s economy is always going to be greatly reliant on the tourism industry due to our spectacular location and excellent range of tourism operators, but it’s just as important to support the growth of other industries,” Mayor Leu said.