More awareness around all day June 18 Captain Cook Highway closure needed - Shuttle driver
CAIRNS IRONMAN
An experienced airport shuttle driver based in the Douglas Shire has reiterated the importance of being aware and planning ahead to avoid disappointment following Newsport’s story about a major impending road closure in the coming months.
The Captain Cook highway – the main arterial between Port Douglas and Cairns will be closed from 5.30am to 5.30pm on June 18 for the Cairns Ironman.
Paul Jackson has long been an advocate for locals and tourists alike being aware of the near day long highway interruption so they can ensure they can still get to Cairns Airport or Port Douglas without major disruption, delay or stress.
“I have been campaigning for years to encourage every hotel to actively advise people when they book accommodation that the highway is closed on the day they might be leaving from, or arriving to, Port Douglas,” Mr Jackson commented.
“Not one single tourist should encounter this unexpected closure.
“After eight years involvement with airport transfers I can say that 90% of people visiting our region have no idea (about the day long closure) even after talking with their local accommodation (following their booking).
“It is the local shuttles and airport transfer services left scrambling and explaining this total road closure every year, during peak season.
“A totally weird event, and surely (there) other scenic FNQ roads where this event could be run."
Mr Jackson said airlines should have the date pencilled in and be ready to let guests know about the implications the day long Captain Cook Highway road closure presents to their Cairns – Port Douglas or vice versa commute, on that specific day.
“Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin should all be involved and have notes when people are booking to or from Cairns on 18 June 2023,” he suggested.
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