General News
23 July, 2026
Lagoon revived
A LAGOON-style pool in Port Douglas is back in the spotlight after more than two decades of debate.
The proposal has long divided opinion among locals, politicians, tourism operators and other stakeholders, with previous concepts stalling over concerns including cost and location.
It has been a point of discussion with locals, politicians, tourism operators and other stake holders for over 20 years.
A number of different plans have been submitted previously, resulting in mixed feelings from locals, expressed both verbally and on social media platforms. With location and cost being among those discussions, ultimately there has been no positive outcome to date.
The lagoon idea is now back on the table and has the backing of both Douglas Shire Council and the local Rotary Club.
It comes at a timely point when Rotary Club of Douglas FNQ, previously known as Mossman Rotary, is about to hand over the reins of management with a new committee, vision and strategies. This change of personnel will formally take place on 22 July at the Barrier Reef Tavern, Four Mile.
The rotary club is proposing a 4200sq m lagoon pool in the tidal zone at the end of Macrossan Street.
Rotary president-elect Craig Schofield said “one of the projects closest to my heart and one of the biggest opportunities for our whole region, is the proposed Port Douglas lagoon.”
“Existing businesses across town and the district, the ones doing it tough with softer tourism numbers, stand to benefit enormously,” he said.
“The data shows a lagoon of this kind can drive a 30-40% increase in visitor numbers and, just as importantly, a 30-40% increase in how long people stay in Port Douglas. That second number is the real gamechanger.
“When visitors stay longer, they don’t just spend more time here, they venture further.
“More Daintree tours, more trips out to Julatten, the barramundi farm, the chocolate farm, the tropical winery, more bike tours, more time out on the Reef, snorkelling, diving or on a sunset cruise,” he said.
“That flow-on effect doesn’t stop at Port Douglas as it lifts Mossman, the Daintree and the whole Shire.
“It’s a genuine injection of economic activity into our region at a time when we need it,” Mr Schofield said.
“Council has formally endorsed our Rotary Club and is supporting us in pursuing funding for a feasibility study.
“That’s the first real step toward turning this from an idea into a plan and from there, toward an actual build.”
Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon encouraged the potential project.
“Council is pleased to support Rotary’s efforts to explore the Port Douglas Lagoon concept,” she said.
“A project like this has the potential to deliver meaningful social, recreational and economic benefits for our community.
“Lagoon-style facilities have proven successful across Queensland, enhancing destination appeal and supporting local businesses.
“A feasibility study is an important first step in understanding how a similar asset could strengthen Port Douglas’ competitive tourism offering.”
One recent Rotary breakfast meeting was attended by Gary Hunt (above), who has a vested interest in the Port Douglas Lagoon project.
Mr Hunt is a leading local architect and developer from Hunt Designs, previously working on and designing the Sherton Mirage and the reopening of Silky Oaks.
He delivered an impactful presentation into his vision for the future.
Rotary Club of Douglas FNQ is now putting together a grant application to the Queensland Government, asking them to fund a proof-of-concept feasibility study.
This has also been backed by a letter of support from the Douglas Shire Council’s chief executive officer. The cost of the project has been estimated to be up to $25 million.
