Ironman road-closure impact to be part of tourism review

Douglas Shire’s peak tourism body will closely examine this Sunday’s Ironman Cairns event to see how improvements can be made for locals and tourists, but the council will not be asking for compensation from race organisers for operators who lose money from Captain Cook Highway road closures.

Douglas Chamber of Commerce member and regular Newsport columnist Lawrence Mason this week called on Douglas Shire councillors to lobby for compensation for tourism operators, saying an extra $50,000 would offset road-closure losses.

Tourism Port Douglas Daintree executive officer Emma Tunnock said this week it is obviously never ideal to have the region’s main access route closed for a full day, especially as we head into our peak season. 

“However, it’s crucial for us to take a strategic approach to managing disruptions and advocating for our local businesses to ensure the best possible outcomes and ongoing support,” Mrs Tunnock said.

“We’re committed to gaining a better understanding of the business impacts from this year’s event, and we’ll explore ways to better leverage Ironman Cairns in future years. 

“While it’s true that the event can bring both challenges and opportunities, with thousands of athletes and their support crews coming into the region, there’s potential for all parties to work more effectively together to ensure Port Douglas and Daintree benefits more fully in the years ahead,” she said.

Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the council understands the benefits the Ironman brings to the broader Cairns region, but is also aware the closure of the Captain Cook Highway can be inconvenient and has an impact on Douglas Shire tourism operators and residents.

 “We’re inviting our community to join the excitement and cheer on competitors at the Hype Party in Craiglie this Sunday,” Mayor Scomazzon said. 

 “Council has no control over the running of this event, and therefore won’t be commenting on calls for compensation, although we do support any advocacy by TPDD to ensure that the entire Shire will benefit in future races.”

It was important to remember the Captain Cook Highway was a state-administered road, so Douglas Shire Council had no control over how the road was used before people entered the Shire near Ellis Beach, she said.

Mr Mason said yesterday visits by tourists to places like Cape Tribulation have waned since the event started and operators lose most of their income because of the race. 

“I don't see any tangible marketing or promotion that results from these cycling events,” he said.