Lawrence's column drums up support

Letter to the Editor

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The "Daintree Futures Study" commissioned by the Wet Tropics Ministerial Council underscores the necessity for comprehensive planning in the region.

I am writing to express my support for Lawrence Mason's recent letter addressing the gradual decline of the Douglas Shire.

His concerns about the deterioration in tourism, infrastructure, and community engagement are substantiated by several academic studies and reports. However, one could argue that the research undertaken and published fell on deaf ears particularly when you see the state of deterioration since some of this research was undertaken.

A 2005 study titled "Assessment of the Socio-Economic Impacts of Management Options for Improving Water Quality in the Douglas Shire" highlights the economic implications of environmental degradation on tourism. The study suggests that a decline in environmental quality could lead to a significant reduction in tourism revenue, emphasising the need for sustainable management practices.

Can the authorities demonstrate adoption of any sustainable practices since 2005?

Furthermore, the "Daintree Futures Study" commissioned by the Wet Tropics Ministerial Council underscores the necessity for comprehensive planning in the region. The report identifies challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and the pressures of balancing conservation with development, advocating for integrated strategies to ensure the Shire's long-term viability. 

There are many wise recommendations related to infrastructure particularly the supply of reliable electricity which we all know has not been the case since the state government moratorium on the grid extension into the Daintree in 1995!

In terms of community involvement, the article "A Critical Look at Community-Based Tourism" discusses the importance of genuine community participation in tourism development.

It warns against superficial involvement and stresses that meaningful engagement is crucial for the success and sustainability of tourism initiatives.

I’m new to the region and can attest that the principles proposed in this research have not been adopted.

These studies collectively support Lawrence's call for proactive measures, including engaging professional researchers and implementing evidence-based strategies.

It is imperative that local authorities and stakeholders collaborate to address these issues, ensuring the Douglas Shire thrives both economically and environmentally.

Mr Kim Matulich

Cape Tribulation

 

 

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