Media Releases
Stay updated on Cook Shire Media Releases.
TMR Roadworks Notice
We have been informed that the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) will be carrying out reconstruction works on the Mulligan Highway (Mareeba to Mount Molloy), at the Big Mitchell Causeway, from mid-August 2025 until September 2025. The work will involve...
Notification of Special Meeting of Council
Under section 254C of the Local Government Regulation 2012, the community is being advised of a Special Meeting of Council to be held at 9:00 am on Monday 25 August 2025 at Council’s Main Administration Building located at 10 Furneaux Street, Cooktown. Business to be...
National Crime Stoppers Day 2025: Don’t post it, report it!
This National Crime Stoppers Day, Cook Shire joins communities across Australia to raise awareness about the importance of reporting crime safely and effectively. The theme for this year is “Don’t post it, report it”, reminding residents that talking about crime on...
Drama workshops are back these September holidays!
Looking for a fun, creative, and confidence-boosting activity for your child these school holidays? Box Jelly Theatre Co. is returning to Cooktown with another round of exciting drama workshops—perfect for young performers with big imaginations! Designed for...
Update Finch Bay & Cherry Tree Bay Fire
The fire that impacted Cooktown’s Finch Bay and Cherry Tree Bay walking tracks earlier this month has now officially been declared safe by the Queensland Fire Department (QFD). After days of close monitoring and fire management, QFD has handed the site back to the...
Public Notice: Lifeguard training at Cooktown Swimming Pool
The Cooktown Swimming Pool team will be undertaking lifeguard training exercises and real-life scenario practice from Monday 18 to Wednesday 20 August 2025. The pool will remain open during this time; however, some activities may appear concerning to onlookers. Please...
Solid Rock, Cooktown’s sing-along is here!
It was one epic moment — and now, it's finally here to relive and share. The wait is over! The incredible Solid Rock community sing-along, filmed at this year’s Cooktown Discovery Festival, has officially dropped — and it’s every bit as powerful, joyful and...
Celebrate Spring, Kites, and Coastline at ‘Sand & Sky: A Day at Finch Bay’
Families, friends and beachgoers are invited to celebrate the arrival of spring and the weekend before Father's Day in spectacular style at Sand & Sky: A Day at Finch Bay on Saturday 6 September from 2PM to 5PM. Hosted by Cook Shire Council, this free community...
Spirits of Cooktown | Open auditions
After a successful performance last year, Box Jelly Theatre Company is back! This time, they’re once again partnering with local organisations to bring The Spirits of Cooktown to life – a unique community theatre event that draws inspiration from the true stories from...
Development Approvals Snapshot: Growth Across Cook Shire
Development activity continues to gain momentum in Cook Shire, with new lots, dwellings, and business opportunities shaping the future of our communities. Between 2020 and June 2025, Cook Shire Council has approved: 57 Reconfigurations of a Lot (subdivisions),...
Cooktown Road sealing works
Cook Shire Council advises that final sealing works will be undertaken in Cooktown on the following streets: Adam Street Furneaux Street Helen Street Howard Street May Street Preparation works are now scheduled to commence from Monday 25 August. Please be advised that...
Cooktown State School year 7 students explore local Government in action
Cook Shire Council welcomed a group of Year 7 students from Cooktown State School on Friday 1 August, for an engaging and hands-on introduction to local government. The visit gave students the opportunity to learn how Council works, what it’s responsible for, how...
Creative arts workshops and family show coming to Cooktown
Get ready for two days of creativity, laughter, and storytelling as puppetry takes to the stage at the Cooktown Shire Hall this August! With two hands-on workshops and a live performance from the acclaimed Spare Parts Puppet Theatre, there’s something for every young...
Author Fiona Tarr shares the story behind her latest novel at Cooktown Library
Local book lovers were treated to a special morning at Cooktown Library on Wednesday 30 July, as Australian author Fiona Tarr visited to share insights into her latest mystery novel, Her Lost Bones. The relaxed event gave attendees a behind-the-scenes look at Fiona’s...
Lost property at the Cooktown Swimming Pool
Have you or your kids left something behind at the pool recently? We’ve gathered a range of lost property items, and we’re asking everyone to please come and check if anything belongs to you. From goggles and towels to hats and water bottles – your missing items might...
Careers Expo Giveaway Winner!
Thanks to all the Cooktown School students who visited our stall at the Cooktown Careers Expo on Wednesday 23 July 2025 and took part in the “Find Your Future Fit at Council?” quiz! The team loved seeing your enthusiasm and curiosity about the many exciting ways you...