Jabalbina boss speaks up for Daintree ‘training village’
Proposed Development
Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation chief executive Josh Paterson says a community consultation session held last week about a proposed at-risk youth “training village” has “alleviated many of the locals’ concerns”.
“We had about 20 people come to the meeting,” Mr Paterson told Newsport this week.
“I’d say it went really well.
“From our point of view this development will have nothing but positive impacts on the Daintree community. It would bring farming and jobs to the area.”
The meeting was held at the Daintree Village around the same time as a section of the community formed an official group to raise formal objections to the JYAC planning application lodged with Douglas Shire Council.
Mr Paterson said the proposal was an “incredibly detailed plan”.
“We don’t see any of the risks that have been mentioned being an issue,” Mr Paterson said.
Objections voiced by the opposing group include concerns the centre is in a flood zone, it is in sight of the Village, it will impede on the beauty of the area, and will have a negative impact on tourism.
The group has also worked with an independent town planner to develop a formal objection based on issues surrounding safety, logistics and the location.
A large number of Daintree Village locals are opposed to the plan, with most also submitting independent objections to the Council before last Friday’s deadline.
The proposed Daintree River Station Training Village development would sit on a 200ha parcel of land on the Daintree River directly across from the Village.
Plans submitted to the Council show up to 17 buildings to house students and staff.
But Mr Paterson said the initial development would be nowhere near as large as what those plans show.
“The first stage of building will only house around six students,” he said.
“We need proof of concept before the (State) Government will provide additional funding.
“17 buildings isn’t within the scope of the actual funding we currently have.”
One of the stated aims of the centre is to “address a range of issues, including mental health challenges, substance abuse, and behavioural concerns”.
“By providing vocational training, cultural programs, and therapeutic support, the village will offer participants the opportunity to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to their communities,” the plans state.
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