Mixed reaction as locals vent content, disproval over successful heli DA for Port St

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION

Michael Warren

Editor

Email Michael
Last updated:
Douglas Shire Councillors approved a DA last week that will see Nautilus Aviation relocate and establish a new base off Port St in Port Douglas. Picture: Port Douglas Daintree Tourism

There’s been mixed reaction from local residents after a development application to relocate and establish a new helicopter base off Port St gained the majority vote at last week’s Douglas Shire ordinary meeting.

An ensuing 48-hour Newsport poll that asked readers “are you happy with Nautilus Aviation's DA for a new base at Port St getting approved and gaining the majority vote at yesterday's Douglas Shire council meeting?” returned 191 votes – 58% not in favour of the result, and 42% happy about the decision.

A number of local residents shocked and dismayed about the decision quickly visited the highly popular and well visited Port Douglas – Mossman Facebook Noticeboard to vent their frustrations and concerns.

“Why would we constantly want helicopters flying over our heads? If we’re for tourism, wouldn’t we want those staying in town to have some peace and tranquillity? Not have the constant heli drone around,” one commenter posted.

“Personally I think they should keep it out on the highway. Imagine being on a fishing tour on the beautiful inlet and there’s choppers going around.

“Plus, the impact on the bird life. No, no, no.”

Other posters indicated their support behind the decision.

“We already have Nautilus, quicksilver helicopters and others including air medical helicopters flying in and out of the current heliport at the Sheraton port in Davidson st all day and occasional nights,” the poster explained.

“It is not a problem! What is the difference?

“Build a proper facility as proposed - it will be safer and good for Port.”

The general reaction on Newsport’s own social media was also mixed.

“Our future generation needs jobs, better medical security which means we need more tourists,” a commenter suggested.

“The Douglas Shire is falling behind other places like Noosa. I support Council’s decision even though we will have minimal extra noise.

“We have to think about our kids’ future.”

Another poster shared an opposite viewpoint.

“A bellwether that clearly reveals a Council that approves outrageously inappropriate developments from multinational companies at the expense of a small town community,” the post said.

“Welcome to Port Douglas, sitting under the 22 flights a day (flight) path of some private helicopters.”

Thank you!

Newsport thanks its advertising partners for their support in the delivery of daily community news to the Douglas Shire. Public interest journalism is a fundamental part of every community.

Got a news tip? Let us know! Send your news tips or submit a letter to the editor here.

* Comments are the opinions of readers and do not represent the views of Newsport, its staff or affiliates. Reader comments on Newsport are moderated before publication to promote valuable, civil, and healthy community debate. Visit our comment guidelines if your comment has not been approved for publication.