It is with immense sadness that we inform the community that Councillor Kevin Davies passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Tuesday, 14 January 2025.

“It is difficult to express the loss we are feeling today,” said Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin.

“Cr Davies was a dear friend to many, and his loss is going to be felt far and wide in our community.

He had a great sense of humour and treated everyone with kindness,” said Mayor Toppin.

Serving since 2016 with honour and distinction, Cr Davies is well-known for passionately representing

Mareeba Shire residents and advocating for a range of community issues, especially road safety.

“He has always been totally committed to our community and Shire, and leaves a legacy of dedication and tremendous community service,” said Mayor Toppin.

Cr Davies served the community not only as a Councillor, but as a volunteer with a number of

community groups including Mareeba Rotary and as the Chair of the Great Wheelbarrow Race.

“Our sincerest condolences are with Cr Davies’ wife Pauline and two sons today. We thank Kevin for his incredible contribution to our Shire,” concluded Mayor Toppin.

Sir David Attenborough has declined to weigh in on whether the Cape York World Heritage bid should go ahead or not.

Newsport Daily contacted Mr Attenborough via his media team last week after Queensland Premier David Crisafulli appeared to pull back from throwing his full support behind the bid, which achieved Tentative Listing status in June following about 15 years of discussion.

A response from Mr Attenborough’s media liaison Michael Ridley was received by Newsport overnight.

“He does not wish to provide any quotes or comment here,” Mr Ridley wrote via email.

Sir David is well known for his support of Far North Queensland, with the region where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef often cited as one of his favourite places in the world.

Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek last week reiterated her support for adding Cape York Peninsula to the list, saying “Queenslanders understand that World Heritage status comes with a huge boost for local jobs, particularly in tourism, and the economy as a whole”.

The new Queensland Government has been reviewing its support for the World Heritage bid, stating it is not convinced the proposal will be economically beneficial and questioning whether stakeholders have been adequately consulted.

To be included on the World Heritage List, sites must be of Outstanding Universal Value and meet other set criteria, with bids typically taking 5-10 years to complete.