General News
29 April, 2025
LNP backs disaster building
THE Douglas Shire Council has welcomed the LNP’s election commitment of $5 million to construct a disaster coordination, community recovery and resilience centre in Mossman.
Funding of a purpose-built facility will enhance disaster preparedness, recovery and resilience across the Douglas Shire and broader Far North Queensland region.
Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said “the announcement is a direct result of advocacy by (the) council and is an investment in the future safety of our community”.
“The centre will be designed to serve as the Douglas Shire disaster coordination and response centre. It will provide essential community space dedicated to recovery, resilience education, training and long-term disaster planning. The centre will be self-sufficient and able to function during disasters, demonstrating a significant shift in our capabilities and technology,” she said.
Operating year-round, it will be home to the council’s newly formed disaster management unit and allow access for other emergency services, volunteers and community groups to undertake training and education.
“We know too well the devastating impacts of disasters in our region and the long road to recovery – this facility will ensure our communities are better prepared, supported and connected when it matters most. It is truly a significant commitment that will benefit everyone for decades,” Cr Scomazzon said.
LNP emergency management spokeswoman Perin Davey and LNP candidate for Leichhardt Jeremy Neal met the shire council earlier this month to announce a Dutton LNP government will contribute $5m to deliver this project.
“Despite its risk profile, the Douglas Shire does not have a fit-for-purpose emergency management and coordination centre,” Senator Davey said.
“It is testament to the commitment of the council that they have managed repeated disasters from their council offices, but that is not optimal. It is time the region had better infrastructure to support their capacity to manage, respond and recover from natural disasters,” he said.
Mr Neal said the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Jasper in 2023 were still raw in people’s minds and the experience highlighted the need for fit for purpose facilities.
