Newsport Alert Friday 16 January 2026

Port hostel aiming to pack in more backpackers

Port Douglas Backpackers on Warner Street in the CBD is aiming to expand its capacity by more than 70 beds.

YOU SAID IT! Boaties raise questions over marina closure

Daniel Molloy -Then they would of cried if a cyclone would of hit.
Phillip Kilfoy - Vessels from Closehaven marina did move.

Cranking up the basketball Heat in 2026

The Douglas Heat Basketball Club has big plans for 2026, including a new Wednesday night competition in Mossman and new representative teams in age groups from under-10s through to under-18s.

River flooding puts Jardine Ferry out of action

The Jardine Ferry at Cape York is out of service until further notice due to flooding of the Jardine River.

PICTURE GALLERY: Out and about in Shire pubs and clubs

Our Newsport photographers were out and about across the past fortnight in the pubs and clubs of Douglas Shire, where many travellers and locals were taking respite from the hot and wet weather.

Business of the day


Daintree Saltwater Barramundi Masterclass

Date: Saturday 17 January 2026

Time: 12.30pm - 2.00pm

Location: Feast Restaurant - Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort


Rowly @ Ellis Beach Bar & Grill

Date: Saturday 17 January 2026

Time: 5:30pm - 8:30pm

Location: Ellis Beach Bar and Grill


Candice Bliss @ Ellis Beach Bar & Grill

Date: Sunday 18 January 2026

Time: 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Location: Ellis Beach Bar and Grill


Wet Season Indoor Golf League - Round 6

Date: Monday 19 January 2026

Time: 10am - 6pm

Location: Daddyshack Indoor Golf, Grant St, Port Douglas

WANTED TO BUY
Wanted to buy land with water, fertile to grow collection of trees.
Call: 0487 233 525

NO INTEREST LOAN SCHEME (NILS) WORKER

Position – Purpose, Responsibilities and Duties

The NILS Worker is responsible for the delivery of the No Interest Loan Scheme to eligible community members, providing safe, accessible and confidential financial support to individuals and families on low incomes. The role supports clients to access fair and affordable credit, build financial capability, and reduce reliance on high-cost lending, while working within program guidelines, organisational policies and funding requirements.

RESORT GARDENER

The role Experience in a previous gardening role with a passion for the environment and a demonstrated knowledge of native plants and animals. An interest in sharing knowledge with guests and maintaining a locally owned iconic 140 acre area of coastal nature reserve.

Position requirements: Experience in a previous role. Knowledge of local flora and fauna. Open to working weekends if required. Chainsaw experience. Willingness to learn. Driver’s licence and reliable vehicle Produce farming and/or tour guiding experience a bonus.

Duties will include: Routine garden maintenance. Blowing, mowing and clearing debri. Basic pool maintenance. Using pruning equipment. Maintaining & harvesting coconut plantation. Edible garden maintenance. Operating a range of gardening equipment and machinery

Please send through a cover letter with a resume to [email protected]

CROWN PRINCESS: Cruise Ship arrival - 19 January 2026

Passengers: 3,000 Crew: 1,100
First tender with passengers is expected at 07:00 and last tender to depart at 17:15.
For more information visit https://www.cruisemapper.com/ships

Join us at Mossman Library on Saturday 31 January at 10:00am for a paranormal romance author interview with JB Thomas

JB will be chatting about his latest release, Heart Full of Storm, an MM paranormal romance steeped in mystery, desire, and tropical heat.

Set in the sultry backdrop of Port Douglas, Heart Full of Storm is a haunting tale where the air is heavy with longing, secrets simmer beneath the surface, and love may be the most dangerous force of all. Discover what inspired the story, the supernatural elements behind it, and what makes this book such a fun read.

A must-attend event for romance and paranormal fiction lovers alike who enjoy listening to authors spill the tea.