Left field, outspoken candidate confirms Mayoral bid against Lisa Scomazzon

The race for the region’s top job has received a curveball with a left field candidate throwing their hat in the ring at the eleventh hour in a bid to become Douglas Shire Mayor.

Just 24 hours before local Government nominations close, outspoken local resident David Haratsis has confirmed he intends to run against Lisa Scomazzon for the top job.

Haratsis is known in local circles for being a strong public transport advocate, in particular services between Port Douglas and Cairns.

More than 12 months ago Haratsis started a social media campaign to lobby the State Government, in particular, Cook MP Cynthia Lui to seriously look at running regular public bus services to and from Port Douglas.

Mr Haratsis has already publicly declared the policies he’s keen to pursue if elected.

They include: Subsidised public transport between Mossman, Cooya and Port Douglas, sustainable development, affordable tourism, State Government funding for a CT machine at Mossman Hospital, a youth strategy, a better relationship with the State Govt and Bushy Creek Bridge discussions.

“Our democracy only works when there is a competition for ideas and policies; a competition to seek the approval of a majority of voters,” Haratsis said just moments ago.

“Accordingly, I have changed tack and decided to run for Mayor. I think the odds are stacked against me. I do not have a long history in the Shire; my family has not lived here for generations.

“However, I am a passionate local that has watched the negativity of the previous council with dismay.

“I could not in good conscience sit by while someone who routinely voted ‘no’ to council agenda items walked into the top local job without scrutiny.

“So, voters in the Douglas Shire now have a choice for Mayor. Someone who was part of the previous council, and someone who is fresh and unencumbered by old grievances."

It remains unclear if current Mayor Michael Kerr intends to lodge a last-minute submission to seek re-election.

Local elections will be held on March 16.