Douglas Shire Historical Society

Douglas Shire Historical Society offers a detailed look at the people, places and industries that shaped Port Douglas and the wider Douglas Shire. Its main public attraction is the Port Douglas Court House Museum at 25 Wharf Street, where visitors can explore local history with assistance from knowledgeable volunteers. The museum is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 1pm, with admission listed as $3 and free entry for children and students.

The Society’s collections and research extend across the region, from Port Douglas and Mossman to Daintree, Mowbray, the Bloomfield area and Low Isles. It preserves historic photographs, local papers, oral histories and other objects, while maintaining databases covering the Port Douglas cemetery, old farm machinery and historical items. The website also highlights stories connected with the Mossman sugar mill, timber industries, schools, transport, local buildings and coastal communities.

Visitors interested in military history can explore the Society’s dedicated Diggers of Douglas material, including information about the Douglas Shire’s First World War service personnel and its Roll of Honour, located at the Douglas Shire Chambers in Mossman. The Society also produces local history books and bulletins, with publications available through its shop. Historic images featured online include Port Douglas, Mossman, Daintree Village, Low Isles, Craiglie and the old Bump Track road.

For a more active way to explore the area, the Society promotes signposted historic walks in Port Douglas, Mossman and Daintree with Douglas Shire Council. It occasionally leads guided walks along heritage trails and through the cemeteries of Port Douglas and Mossman, including walks for groups. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at the Mossman Community Centre, with local-history presentations and a welcome extended to everyone. The Society suits solo visitors, families with children, history enthusiasts and groups wanting context for the places they are visiting. It also offers opportunities to volunteer at the museum, join the Society or contribute family photographs and films for copying and future exhibitions.