Port Douglas region ‘so much better’ than Gold Coast

BEACH BIFF



BILLY Gordon’s recent comments that he would not swim in the Douglas Shire, and tourists seeking a classic beach holiday should go to the Gold Coast, have been slammed by federal and local government officials.

The controversial Gordon, Independent MP and state member for Cook, was basing his comments on the increasing crocodile threat at Four Mile Beach – it’s a surprise he did not slam the immensely popular idea of building a lagoon to counter the crocodiles and stingers – and at the same time, putting down this iconic part of the world in favour of the Gold Coast.

Warren Entsch, the Federal Member for Leichhardt, said “as the local MP, Billy Gordon’s comments are disappointing.”

“His focus should be on our region; in support of our economy and attracting people here, not sending them to other areas.

“There’s no reason why we can’t have our crocodiles and other creatures and still be a major attraction for people as well, rather than suggesting that there are alternatives. There is no substitute for paradise,” said Entsch.

And Douglas Shire Mayor Julia Leu has welcomed the comment that the Shire is not an “iconic ocean side tourist destination like the Gold Coast” – stressing that we are much better than that.

“I’m glad Billy has recognised that the Douglas Shire is not an ‘iconic ocean side tourist destination like the Gold Coast’ - we are so much better than that,” Leu said today.

“Douglas has never wanted to emulate the Gold Coast and has always focused on its special and unique characteristics such as the reef, the rainforest and the spectacular beaches; which continue to attract tourists in record numbers.

“Visitor surveys show one of the main reasons people come to the Douglas Shire is for rest and relaxation and to enjoy the beauty of our beaches in and out of the water; and our local tourism industry fully embrace these sentiments,” said Leu.

Independent MP Billy Gordon believes Port Douglas is not a beachside tourist hotspot like the Gold Coast due to the threat of crocodiles. IMAGE: Newsport.

The controversial Gordon needs reminding that the electoral district of Cook covers the vast Cape York Peninsula north of Cairns, including Port Douglas and the Torres Strait Islands. It would therefore be fair to question why he is promoting the Gold Coast.

The Shire’s tourism arm, Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree (TPDD), has rejected Gordon’s claims adding that throughout Australia, there are hazards, such as strong rips, sharks or jelly fish.

“Families regularly swim at Four Mile Beach year-round albeit in the nets during the stinger season or the open beach during the winter months,” said TPDD executive officer Tara Bennett.

“The beaches are promptly closed if a crocodile is sighted with signage displayed to advise people of recent sightings. Freshwater creeks throughout the Douglas Shire are a haven this time of year for locals and visitors alike.

“Beaches and waterways throughout Australia have hazards present such as strong rips, sharks, jelly fish and so on. Minimising risk and providing education are the best tools to ensure people can safely enjoy our beach environments,” she said.


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