Council remains committed to ensuring all community infrastructure is delivered safely, sustainably and in the public interest — including the Stay another Day, Rail Trail Boardwalk project.
Council has always supported the Rail Trail Boardwalk in principle, recognising the community benefits and positive intent behind it. However, due to limited discretionary funding and the need to prioritise other essential services and infrastructure across the Shire, Council has not been in a position to deliver or fund the project itself.
In 2024, when a development application for a 110-metre section of boardwalk was submitted by the community-led project team, Council approved it in good faith. Unfortunately, delivery of the works under that approval has not aligned with the required conditions, and Council is now working with State agencies to seek retrospective approvals to bring the completed section into compliance.
This process — which was not anticipated or budgeted for — is now being resourced and funded by Council, at cost to the broader community. Our focus is to ensure the structure is safe, compliant, and certified before it is formally handed over to Council for ongoing maintenance.
Until this occurs, Council will not be progressing or committing to any future stages or extensions. Any future works will be subject to formal planning and budget processes, and assessed in line with Shire-wide priorities.
We understand that community members are passionate about this project, and we welcome that spirit. However, it’s important to note that all projects delivered on Council-managed land — whether initiated by Council or the community — must meet legal, safety, and environmental standards. When these processes are not followed, the cost to fix them ultimately falls on all ratepayers.
Please refer to the comprehensive list of documents and Council updates regarding this matter below.
We encourage anyone with feedback, questions, or proposals to contact Council through official channels:
📧 mail@cook.qld.gov.au
📞 4082 0500
RELATED NEWS & DOCUMENTS
Council Report: Cooktown History Railway Trail External Works Rectification (Item 18.3)
Date of Decision: August 2025
This report is to inform Council in relation to works carried out by external parties on the Cooktown Historic Railway Trail. Work has occurred in the section from the old Turntable at Adelaide Street, behind the Cooktown Cemetery, through to the Cooktown Racecourse, without obtaining relevant approvals and provide options for rectification.
From the CEO: Public Update on the Rail Trail Boardwalk
Date of Publication: 30 May 2025
Cook Shire Council has temporarily closed access to the new boardwalk along the Rail Trail in the interest of public safety, as the structure has not yet received final building certification.
Media Statement: Rail Trail Boardwalk Project
Date of Publication: 29 May 2025
Cook Shire Council acknowledges the strong community interest in the Stay Another Day Rail Trail Boardwalk project and is pleased to provide the following update.
Update on the Boardwalk project
Date of publication: 10 March 2025
Cook Shire Mayor Robyn Holmes has shared an important update on the much-anticipated 110-metre boardwalk at the Racecourse end of the trail.
DA/4600 Operational Works - Prescribed Tidal Works (100m section of Boardwalk)
Date of Decision: 11 June 2024
Applicant: South Cape York Catchments c/- Eric George
Address: MacMillan Street Road Reserve, Cooktown 4895
Category: Code Assessment