The opening of the much-awaited Paws and Claws animal shelter in Craiglie will be the perfect Christmas present for its president and mayor Michael Kerr.

“Although we still have a number of issues to deal with, I am confident we’ll be open mid-December. And to open before Christmas will be the ideal gift.

“There is still work to be done to finalise the acoustics and we hope to get the kennels – which came from the United States – fitted,” said Kerr.

Kerr also revealed that the shelter is looking for an experienced animal lover to join as the Kennel Facility Manager, who will assist the board in the day-to-day operations.

“Ideally, we are looking for a couple who will have a thorough knowledge of animal husbandry, kennel operations, and animal disease transmission and prevention; experience in conducting inspections and producing outcomes in line with legislation; local law, and council policies along with office and administration experience.”

Kerr said they are offering a healthy remuneration package based on experience, including a two-bedroom manager’s property onsite.

Although an operating couple is preferred, individual applicants would be considered based on experience.

The $1.7 million facility, which can house 36 dogs, has had to overcome its many detractors, challenges from among the Councillors, legal battles, considerable media coverage and securing an appropriate location.

Appeal lodged

Among its challenges, Kerr and his board had to contest five Craiglie businesses who lodged an appeal in the Planning and Environment Court.

On December 4, 2018 Newsport reported that the Planning and Environment Court judge, in the case against Paws and Claws converting a former printing company into an animal shelter in Teamsters Close in Craiglie, has ruled that there must be a ‘without prejudice meeting’ by all parties by 22 February.

“In an 11th hour application, five businesses in Craiglie lodged an appeal in the Planning and Environment Court to scupper plans for the animal refuge centre.

“A hearing in the Mossman Magistrates Court (last Monday) was adjourned (until Friday) and this is when it was ruled a without prejudice meeting be held.

“A without prejudice meeting is intended to encourage parties to see if the dispute can be resolved outside the Court or Tribunal.”

The association, which was founded in the 1980s, the Homeless Animal Society and Boarding Kennels Inc. is a non-profit, no kill, dog and cat rescue organisation.

Originally homed on the Captain Cook Hwy, the ageing facility was burdened with noise and smell issues before closing in September 2016.

Visit pawsandclaws.org.au for further details on how to apply.