Pro-amalgamation lobby group People Of Douglas (POD) will put their argument to residents at a public meeting at the Port Douglas Community Hall on Thursday in a last ditch effort to sway swinging voters.

POD has previously been criticised by some de-amalgamation supporters for their non-attendance at public meetings organised by pro-deamalgamation group Friends Of Douglas Shire.

Organiser Wes Connolly said there will be a few speakers who will each cover a different aspect of the de-amalgamation debate.

“We decided on a format where each presenter will talk for around 4-5 minutes.

“Our opening speaker will run through the benefits Douglas residents have enjoyed since being amalgamated five years ago.

“Another speaker will talk about the challenges a new, small council will face if de-amalgamation occurs.

“And other speakers will talk about the future opportunities and benefits that will flow out of people choosing to vote No to de-amalgamation,” he said.

Once the presentations have concluded, people in the audience will have the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification on any of the points raised.

The event is scheduled to start at 6pm and will conclude at 7:30pm.