Lui calls for Douglas Shire Council to waive Cape Tribulation residents' latest water, rates bills

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The Noah Range landslide which continues to cause headaches in the Daintree. Picture: Supplied

Cook MP Cynthia Lui has appealed to Douglas Shire Council to waive rates and fees for Cape Tribulation residents who still remain mostly cut off three months after Tropical Cyclone Jasper and the subsequent flooding.

The road to Cape Tribulation, including Alexandra and Noah’s Ranges were severely impacted by landslips which has limited residents ability to get out and tourists’ ability to get in for almost 100 days.

The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) and Douglas Shire Council are working together for a solution to the complex issues of rebuilding a stable access road but the isolation is taking its toll.

“The challenges are still very raw and real in Cape Tribulation,” Ms Lui told Newsport.

“I have written to the Douglas Shire Council on behalf of the residents of Cape Tribulation who have faced the most challenging times in recent months due to the impacts of ex-tropical cyclone Jasper.

“Residents are telling me of their hardship with paying water and Council rates. I have urged the Council to consider waiving these fees for Cape Tribulation residents, which might alleviate some financial pressures for residents.

“Residents like Jeremy Blockey and Lawrence Mason have been absolute champions under the most trying of circumstances, speaking up for their community around issues such as this one, and I thank them for their dedication and updates.

“Business trading has been at an all-time low, resulting in loss of income. Many residents are under extreme financial pressures and this is placing a significant impact on many people’s social and economic wellbeing.

“I will again reach out to the new Council representatives following the Local Government elections. We must all look at the ways we can support the community to make it through this long and challenging time.

“Full recovery will take some time and I will continue to advocate across all levels of government for more support for this community and other disaster impacted communities.

“While the road to Cape Tribulation remains under repair, it is difficult at best for businesses to generate an income and almost impossible for most.”

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