General News
28 May, 2026
So much on offer in paradise
GREAT food, refreshments, arts, sport, tranquillity and culture.
It’s all on offer across the whole of Douglas Shire and, at the risk of sounding like a tourism brochure, I really want to share some of these great assets in the ‘Goss’ this week.
Carnivale Weekend is always a massive event on the calendar for Port Douglas, but while Port becomes the showpiece of Far North Queensland each May, it is well worth remembering that the whole of the Douglas Shire should be celebrated by both locals and visitors.
While enjoying the activities of Four Mile Beach, the street parade, music at Savannah Sounds, the Paramour Big Top and many other attractions, there is also the opportunity to spread your wings and venture a little further afield.
Mossman, with its gorgeous backdrop, is the gateway to the Daintree and offers a number of ways to kick back in ‘tropical paradise’, which just happens to be the theme for Carnivale this year.
Just before Mossman, heading north, why not take a left turn towards Julatten and take in some of the scenic views as the twisty road climbs inland.
At the same time, swing round into beautiful Shannonvale and, while taking in the scenery, including the popular causeway and swimming area, why not check out the locally-made chocolate and tropical wines.
Mossman town is just the best way to relax with an early breaky, brunch or maybe just simply a coffee while watching the world go by. Even enjoy a range of locally-made donuts at Duke’s.
The Mossman Gorge is a great way to soak up some of the local Indigenous culture on beautiful Kuku Yalanji Country and for those with an artistic bent, the DAB Art gallery is a must.
Not only is the historic building a treasure to see, but the varying work of local artists makes it well worth the visit.
Sport is also there for the taking, such as the member-run Mossman Golf Club, great for 18 holes in the tropics.
Club Mossman offers undercover bowls as well as food and beverages, while the famous and historic Bump Track will provide great views and a challenge for people keen on a brisk walk or run.
After a long day, others may be keen on a cold beer for which the traditional country pubs are adequately stocked to help out with your thirst.
Those keen on some simple quiet downtime will love the Botanical Gardens just north of Mossman. Still in its early stages of development, the Garden of Woven Memories and the Garden of Plenty provide pure tranquillity, as I often find myself.
For people travelling further north, Daintree Village will always provide a pleasant welcome, with smiling faces, the antiques museum and once again cold beer and lunch options.
When up in this special part of Australia, it would be a shame not to experience the world’s oldest rainforest, that being the Daintree. Kids will love the car ferry, which all adds to the special ambience of this world class tropical location.
Well, hopefully that has whetted the appetite for local residents, longer-term visitors and those here for a short stay during the Carnivale period.
I’m off to Mossman for a mocha and jam donut, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.
Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au
