Dangerous corner

Ratepayers want action

Paul Makin

Journalist

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Cars are forced to cross over into the oncoming traffic lane due to parked vehicles and the tightness of the turn. All pictures: Paul Makin
Shuttles can’t do anything else but take a wide berth at the corner and when this picture was taken there were less vehicles parked there than usual.

Many concerned residents of Port Douglas are calling on authorities to do something about what they’re calling a very dangerous blind corner located between Barrier and Reef Streets.

The corner has already claimed one life in recent times and concerned citizens are worried it may happen again.

The primary issue stems from vehicles parked along the side of the road which severely obstruct the view of oncoming traffic. The exceptionally tight corner also forces drivers to sometimes navigate into the oncoming lane risking head-on collisions with vehicles travelling in the opposite direction.

The risk is heightened by an inspection plate located inconveniently in the middle of one of the lanes. Adding to this perfect storm is a nearby turn-off into the Four Mile Beach carpark, a children’s crossing, and a school bus pickup point nearby.

DSRA President John Sullivan has told Newsport his Association is urging the Council to conduct a formal risk analysis of the area.

Council called on to act

The Douglas Ratepayers Association (DSRA) has today written to the Douglas Shire Council CEO Rachel Brophy calling on the Council to act. DSRA President John Sullivan told Newport a short time ago: "specifically, we urge the Council to conduct a formal risk analysis of the area with a view to implementing measures that could mitigate the danger,” he said.

One potential remedy according to the DSRA could be the removal or realignment of some parking spots that exacerbate the visibility issues and contribute to the risk of crashes, pedestrian injuries or worse.

“Such a step would not only improve visibility but also ensure that vehicles have adequate space to navigate the corner safely without encroaching on the opposite lane,” Mr Sullivan said.

Brian, a local resident who didn’t want his surname to be used told Newsport: “the corner is just too tight, and you can’t see oncoming traffic as you make the turn near the Beach Shack on your way into town, it’s a case of hoping for the best most of the time, so something really needs to be done about it” he said.

Tragic reminder

Back in 2022 a motorcycle crash at that very corner claimed the life of local woman Shanti Wren. As most locals know there’s still a memorial to this popular young woman at a tree close to the scene of the crash.

Ms Wren’s death shattered the community of Port Douglas, with friends of the adored woman giving heartbreaking tributes to a woman who was a “ray of sunshine”.

At the time a 31-year-old Port Douglas man was charged over the deadly incident. Police said the man and Ms Wren were
thrown from their motorbike after failing to negotiate the corner.

Safety first

Obviously, safety and well-being of our community members are of paramount importance and Mr Sullivan says the DSRA is reaching out to Council only because the matter is urgent.

“We are confident that with the Councils prompt attention and action, we can significantly improve the safety of this area for all residents and visitors to Port Douglas,” he said.

They await Councils response, as does Newsport.

A children’s crossing nearby only makes the situation more dangerous.
A memorial on a tree nearby to where the tragedy happened in 2022 is maintained by loved ones and friends of Ms Wren.

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