Free ferry trips across the Daintree River will be offered during the Easter holidays, encouraging locals to take advantage of the attractions that exist right on their doorstep.
 
The ferry service will waive all crossing fees for the duration of the holidays, as part of an economic stimulus package to get local tourism moving.
 
“This is an opportunity for Cairns residents to get out and explore their own backyard,” Mayor Val Schier said.
 
 “Council has put a lot of work into improvements north of the river and we would love for people to see first hand what we’ve done to make the experience more enjoyable.
 
“We live in one of the most spectacular regions in the world – why not load the family into the car and see our stunning rainforests, beaches and attractions?
 
“We also hope tourists will take advantage of this opportunity to enjoy what the northern parts of our region have to offer.”
 
Division 10 Councillor Julia Leu, who welcomed the news, said she hoped people would visit the Daintree and think about what they would like to see next time.
 
“We are currently in the process of developing a Daintree Gateway Master Plan and we are looking for public input.
 
“This is the perfect opportunity to visit this truly amazing part of our region, which contains world heritage-listed rainforest, and have some input into its future.”
 
The free ferry service will run from 6am on Saturday, April 16, to midnight on Monday, May 2. Tickets will still need to be obtained from the ticket booth.
 
Existing concession card holders will have access to a priority lane to avoid delays.