Get set for all kinds of spooky tonight across Douglas Shire as young and the young at heart head out for Halloween. Getting set to welcome some creepy customers for Trick or Treating are the Port Douglas Rattle ‘N’ Hum team, ….., ….

See where you can enjoy some fun spooky entertainment over the next couple of nights HERE

Contractors have sparked more concerns among residents expressing anger at trees being felled across the Douglas Shire, particularly in Port Douglas where significant trees have been dropped to make way for development in recent weeks.

This morning, Thursday, October 31, tree fellers were at Four Mile Park to fell and chip a number of trees, including a dead tree and a strangler fig.

After being contacted by Helen Wallace, who’s Letter to the Editor on what she described as ruthless destruction of significant trees in the Shire, garnered plenty of online support from ratepayers, Newsport has confirmed with Douglas Shire Council the nature of the work and reasons why.

In a statement to Newsport, Mayor Lisa Scommazon said a dead tree overhanging a picnic table was removed due to safety concerns.

“A large Melaleuca located between the car park and picnic tables had begun to decline and was overtaken by a strangler fig,’’ she said.

“The tree displayed signs of poor health, with dead wood and some dead branches in its canopy. To support the Melaleuca's health and potentially extend its lifespan, Council arborists arranged for a contractor to prune back portions of the strangler fig, allowing the Melaleuca an opportunity to grow and recover.

“This pruning also allows for more thorough ground inspection of the Melaleuca to assess its condition and ensure its long-term safety with the reduction of the fig.’’

READ HELEN’S LETTER HERE