Media Releases
Stay updated on Cook Shire Media Releases.
Council Celebrates Get Ready! Week with launch of a shire-wide, Get Ready! Yard Clean Up Competition
Cook Shire Council is encouraging residents to roll up their sleeves ahead of storm season, with the launch of the Get Ready! Yard Clean Up Competition and almost $2,000 in practical prizes up for grabs. The competition, which runs from 3 October to 17 November 2025,...
Get ready for free* dumping days
Get your yard ready for extreme weather season Cook Shire Council is once again offering Free Dumping Days to help residents tidy their properties and remove potential hazards before cyclone season. When & Where 1 – 16 November 2025 during regular operating hours...
Cook Shire Council Budget 2025–26: Focusing on Fundamentals
Cook Shire Council has adopted a practical and financially disciplined 2025–26 Budget, prioritising essential service delivery and asset maintenance while recognising the ongoing economic challenges and limited capacity to generate own-source revenue. With a modest...
Cook Shire Council opens tender for strategic sale of undeveloped Cooktown land
Cook Shire Council is inviting tenders for the purchase of four parcels of undeveloped freehold land within Cooktown, signalling a proactive step toward encouraging economic development, residential growth, and community revitalisation. The land, located on Boundary...
Cooktown Discovery Festival unites community in celebration of history and culture
Hundreds of locals and visitors gathered in Cooktown over the weekend for the 46th annual Cooktown Discovery Festival, celebrating the region’s rich culture, community spirit, and place in Australian history as the site of the first recorded act of reconciliation...
Public update on the Rail Trail Boardwalk
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. The opening date was announced without prior consultation with Council, and...
Council Update: Rail Trail Boardwalk Project
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. This project is a community-led initiative located on Council-managed land. The development application,...
MEDIA RELEASE | Real stories of resilience and reconciliation set to light up the Cooktown Shire Hall
In celebration of National Reconciliation Week 2025, Cook Shire Council is proud to present a special Film Festival showcasing powerful First Nations storytelling on the big screen at Cooktown’s iconic Shire Hall. Running from Monday 26 May to Saturday 31 May, the...
MEDIA RELEASE | Cooktown Botanic Gardens celebrates Botanic Gardens Week 2025
Cook Shire Council is once again joining gardens across Australia and New Zealand in celebrating Botanic Gardens Week 2025, with a vibrant, weeklong program from 19 to 25 May at the iconic Cooktown Botanic Gardens. The celebration coincides with the 10th...
MEDIA RELEASE | Council announces bin labelling program for fairer, safer waste services
Cook Shire Council is rolling out a new bin-labelling program to improve waste management, reduce contamination and ensure fairness and consistency across the Shire. From 1 July 2025, only bins that have been officially labelled by Council will be collected a part of...
MEDIA RELEASE: Bright blue, bulk water units launching in Cooktown and Coen
Cook Shire Council has launched its new self-serve water stations in Cooktown and Coen. The bright royal blue stations are easy to spot, simple to use, and will make it easier for businesses, residents, and visitors to access clean drinking water. Mayor Robyn Holmes...
Cooktown’s biggest celebration returns this June
Get ready for an unmissable weekend of history, adventure, and entertainment as the 46th annual Cooktown Discovery Festival returns from 20-22 June 2025. This iconic festival brings together locals and visitors to celebrate Cooktown’s rich heritage, culture, and...
Cook Shire Council launches 2025 Community Scorecard Study
Cook Shire Council is calling on residents and ratepayers to have their say as part of the 2025 MARKYT® Community Scorecard study, which launches today. This important initiative provides an opportunity for the community to share feedback on local services,...
Cook Shire Council votes to cease fluoridation of Cooktown’s water supply
COOKTOWN – In a decision that has sparked strong reactions from the community, Cook Shire Council has voted 4-3 to remove fluoride from Cooktown’s water supply. The meeting saw standing room only, with cheers and applause erupting from the gallery following the vote....
Be informed: Council to host Community Update ahead of 2025-26 budget considerations
Cook Shire Council is calling on residents to attend an important Community Update event where locals can gain insights into Council’s financial position, ask questions about rates and services, and provide input on budget priorities for the year ahead. The event,...
Cooktown dives in! Council and community swim to support youth mental health
.. Cook Shire Council and the Cooktown Swimming Pool are calling on the community to dive in for a great cause this March by joining Laps for Life, a national swimming challenge raising funds and awareness for youth mental health. With one in four young Australians...
Celebrate Love your Library month this February at Cook Shire Libraries
Cook Shire Libraries are celebrating Love your Library Month this February, inviting the community to rediscover their local library and all the services it offers. The month-long celebration will feature exciting events, including a colouring-in competition, a...
Cook Shire Council announces 2025 Australia Day Award Winners
Community spirit, resilience, and outstanding achievements were celebrated at Cook Shire Council’s Australia Day Awards event. Australia Day Ambassador Kevin Hughes BM OAM joined the celebrations, sharing his inspiring journey of service and resilience. Mayor Robyn...
Honouring service and community: Kevin Hughes BM OAM joins Cook Shire’s Australia Day Awards
Cook Shire Council is delighted to announce Kevin Hughes BM OAM as the 2025 Australia Day Ambassador.Mr Hughes, (pictured left) a distinguished veteran and passionate advocate for environmental conservation, will join us on 26 January for our Australia Day Awards. The...
Media Release | New leadership for Cooktown Events Centre: Council appoints Stephen Wishart
Cook Shire Council is excited to announce the appointment of Stephen Wishart as the new Manager of the Cooktown Events Centre. Stephen brings extensive experience in community engagement and facility management as demonstrated by his leadership roles in Belgravia...
Council adopts 2023–24 Annual Report
At Council's Ordinary Council meeting on Tuesday 26 November 2024, Cook Shire Council formally adopted its 2023–24 Annual Report. The report highlights Council’s commitment to responsible financial management while navigating the unique challenges of a small ratepayer...
Cook Shire brings free Santa photos to Cooktown
Cook Shire Council announces a free Santa photo session for local families this festive season. These sessions offer an opportunity for residents to capture special Christmas memories right here in Cook Shire. Mayor Robyn Holmes said the initiative aligns with the...
Council unveils new modern website to improve community access and engagement
Cook Shire Council is proud to unveil its new, user-friendly website, designed to provide residents, businesses, and visitors with seamless access to essential information and services. The modern, streamlined platform underscores Council’s commitment to improving...
Council to assume direct managment of the Cooktown Events Centre
Cook Shire Council resolved at its September 24 Council meeting that Council resume management of the Cooktown Events. This decision will allow Council to adapt the facility to accommodate the growing needs of the community. Cook Shire Council resolved at its...
The long road to recovery: Bloomfield Road repair and reconstruction works to commence
Cook Shire Council is pleased to announce that significant recovery and reconstruction works are now underway along Bloomfield Road, marking a major step forward in the region’s recovery from Tropical Cyclone Jasper and associated flooding. Funding for the project has...
Council to address the ‘Three Rs’ at community update events
Cook Shire Council is inviting all residents and stakeholders to attend either of two community update events taking place at the Cooktown Shire Hall on Tuesday 10 and 17 September 2024 at 4:30 pm. These update events will focus on key areas of rubbish services, road...
Council announces operational changes at Mt Tully Green Waste Facility
Cook Shire Council is announcing key operational changes at Cooktown’s Mt Tully Green Waste Facility.
AMOR to captivate audiences at Cooktown Shire Hall
Cook Shire Council and JUTE Theatre Company are pleased to welcome Amor by D.I.V.E. Theatre Collective to the Cooktown Shire Hall for a one-show-only special event. The newest production from D.I.V.E. - the award-winning multi-lingual contemporary theatre company...
Council Adopts 2024-25 Budget: A Strategic Pathway to Sustainability and Growth
Cook Shire Council is pleased to announce the adoption of the 2024-25 Budget, a comprehensive financial plan designed to uphold essential services, support community development, and ensure the sustainable growth of the Shire. 18 July 2024 - 03:58PM Cook Shire Council...
Tackling Illegal Dumping: Changes in Operations at Laura and Lakeland Waste Transfer Stations
Effective 8 July 2024, the Laura Waste Transfer Station will transition from an unmanned, 24/7 operation to a managed service with specific operating hours. 27 June 2024 - 14:18PM Effective 8 July 2024, the Laura Waste Transfer Station will transition from an...
Cooktown Discovery Festival Triumphs: A Vibrant Celebration of Resilience and Culture
Cooktown Discovery Festival held 14-16 June 2024, has concluded with resounding success, celebrating the rich history, adventure, and culture of Cooktown and Cape York. 19 June 2024 - 10:01AM Cooktown Discovery Festival held 14-16 June 2024, has concluded with...
Cooktown Discovery Festival add special guest, Brian Nankervis to an exciting event line-up
Cook Shire Council is excited to announce the Cooktown Discovery Festival, taking place from 14-16 June 2024. 23 May 2024 - 02:02PM Cook Shire Council is excited to announce the Cooktown Discovery Festival, taking place from 14-16 June 2024. An annual festival...
Cook Shire unlocks $920k in funding to help protect the Great Barrier Reef
Cook Shire Council welcomes $920,000 in funding from the Australian Government to support critical conservation projects outlined in our Reef Action Plan. 22 May 2024 - 02:56PM Cook Shire Council welcomes $920,000 in funding from the Australian Government to support...
Sealed at last! Council receives major funding to upgrade Cameron Creek Road
Cook Shire Council is pleased to announce the approval of more than $4.7 million in funding for significant upgrades to Cameron Creek Road, a critical project set to enhance connectivity and safety for the residents of Cooktown and surrounding areas. 08 May 2024 -...
Cook Shire initiates comprehensive review of post TC Jasper response
In a proactive step towards enhancing community resilience and accountability, Cook Shire Council has announced the engagement of Strategic Disaster Solutions, an esteemed external consultancy, to conduct a thorough review and develop an action report on the council's...
Fresh faces, fresh ideas: Cook Shire welcomes its new council
Cook Shire Council is pleased to announce the official swearing-in of its newly elected Councillors at the Post-election meeting held today Tuesday, 9 April 2024. The ceremony, administered by CEO Brian Joiner, marked the commencement of their duties in serving the...
Dog owners encouraged to seize the opportunity to ‘spay the day’
Cook Shire Council is encouraging all dog owners to Spay the Day, with the final round of its successful desexing program for the 2023-24 financial year scheduled to take place from Tuesday, 30 April until Thursday, 2 May 2024. 05 April 2024 - 09:37AM Cook Shire...
Council unveils two new grants targeting safer communities and environmental innovation
Cook Shire is pleased to announce the launch of two new funding opportunities aimed at bolstering community security and fostering environmental innovation within the region. 27 March 2024 - 03:07PM The Cook Shire Security Upgrade...
Community invited to meet Cook Shire Candidates
As the March local government elections draw near, Cook Shire Council, in collaboration with the Cooktown Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, extends an invitation to the community to meet their local candidates at a special event being held at Cooktown PCYC Events...
The Road to Recovery: Cook Shire seeks community feedback after TC Jasper Floods
In the wake of the devastating impact of the flooding events following Tropical Cyclone Jasper, Cook Shire Council is formally announcing our transition from immediate disaster response to long-term recovery efforts, by hosting a series of Community Recovery Forums....
Cook Shire announces funding to strengthen and support flood hit communities
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 01 February 2024 - 02:23PM Following the significant flooding events triggered by Tropical Cyclone Jasper in December 2023, that inundated more than 140 residences in the southern parts of Cook Shire, Council is taking decisive steps to bolster...
Cook shire announces 2024 Australia day ambassador
Cook Shire Council proudly introduces Justine Christerson, the founder of "Breaking down the barriers for rural patients in city hospitals," as the esteemed Australia Day Ambassador for 2024. 17 January 2024 - 03:16PM Cook Shire Council proudly introduces Justine...
Survey says: Cook Shire’s community scorecard Shapes Council’s to-do list
Cook Shire Council unveils its 2023 MARKYT Community Scorecard report, paving the way for a comprehensive campaign that resonates with community feedback and prioritizes initiatives aligning with residents' needs. 29 January 2024 - 10:14AM The recently released...
Council Offers Financial Incentives to Boost Housing Growth in Cook Shire
Cook Shire Council has adopted a proactive new policy aimed at increasing housing developments and new home builds in the region. 15 August COOKTOWN Cook Shire Council has adopted a proactive new policy aimed at increasing housing developments and new home builds in...
Cook Shire Adopts Responsible 2023-24 Budget
Cook Shire councillors adopted a responsible budget aimed at keeping costs low for ratepayers and reducing excess spending at a special meeting on 27 June 2023. 03 July 2023 - 02:30PM The 2023-24 budget took into account the current economic climate with escalating...
Cook Shire Council Adopts its Inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan (Rap)
Ahead of Reconciliation Week (27 May - 3 June), Cook Shire Council has made formal its continued commitment to Reconciliation by adopting its first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). 26 May 2023 - 10:10AM Cook Shire Council has made formal its continued commitment to...
Safety, Fishing and Tourism Key Priorities as Upgrades to Cooktown Wharf Area Commence
Cook Shire Council commenced highly anticipated upgrade works to the area connecting the Cooktown Wharf, boat ramp and waterfront this week as part of Stage 5 of the Revitalisation of Charlotte Street project. 15 MAY 2023- 10:49PM Cook Shire Council commenced highly...
Cooktown Discovery Festival 2023: Good for Business, Great for the Community
Cook Shire Council is pleased to announce that the 2023 Cooktown Discovery Festival will be held from 16-18 June. 14 MARCH 2023 - 11:57AM Cook Shire Mayor, Peter Scott is looking forward to the upcoming festival, stating, "The Cooktown Discovery Festival is a...
Be Informed; Get Involved at Cook Shire’s Community Update Events
Cook Shire Council is pleased to announce two casual and informal community update events being held at the Cooktown Shire Hall on Thursday 16 March and Saturday 18 March 2023. 02 March 2023 - 03:31 PM Cook Shire Council is pleased to announce two casual and...
Cook Shire Accepts Invitation of the Uluru Statement From the Heart
Cook Shire Council passed a historic resolution at yesterday’s February Council Meeting, formally accepting the invitation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart. 01 March 2023 - 03:13PM Cook Shire Council passed a historic resolution at yesterday’s February Council...
Cook Shire Announces 2023 Australia Day Award Winners
Cook Shire Council is proud to recognise those who make a difference in their local community by presenting the 2023 Australia Day Award winners. The awards are held across local governments to celebrate outstanding contributions to community life and active...
As Coen Receives a Resupply, Council Urges Communities to ‘Get Ready!’
Cook Shire Council worked with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, local businesses and wholesale suppliers to coordinate the delivery of essential supplies to the regional land-locked community of Coen, the Shire’s second-largest township, and northernmost hub....
Cook Shire Announces 2023 Australia Day Ambassador, Dr Tahnee Bridson
Cook Shire Council is set to reflect, respect and celebrate on Australia Day with Australia Day Ambassador, Dr Tahnee Bridson. 12 January 2023 - 01:11PM Named Queensland’s Young Australian of the Year in 2022 for her dedication...
Calling all Cape York and Torres Strait Island Artists!
Cook Shire Council, in partnership with the Regional Arts Services Network, is pleased to announce that applications are now open to all Cape York and Torres Strait Island artists for the chance to take part in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase their...
Residents Relieved as Marton Swing Bridge Re-opens Ahead of Wet Season
Cook Shire Council is pleased to announce that with repairs to the approach ramps of the Marton Swing Bridge coming to completion, the bridge is scheduled to reopen in coming days – ahead of the approaching wet season. 25 October 2022 - 12:58PM Pictured left to right...
One-way and a shared pathway as Sherrin Esplanade sets to reopen
Stage 6 of the Revitalisation of Charlotte Street, the upgrade works to Cooktown’s Sherrin Esplanade, are due for completion in the coming weeks, with the road anticipated to be open in September. 12 August 2022 - 10:54AM “Enhanced amenity and access have been key...
Sailing Off on a High: Cook Shire Ceo Bid a Heartfelt Farewell
Cook Shire Council Mayor Peter Scott expressed his heartfelt gratitude and respect for retiring CEO Linda Cardew at the July Ordinary Council Meeting – Mrs. Cardew’s last ahead of her retirement – held on Tuesday 26 July 2022. 27 July 2022 - 12:08PM “Mrs. Cardew’s...
Cape Councils Push to get Regional Aged-care Addressed
Cook Shire Council has tabled a preliminary business case that addresses the need for aged care services through a regional partnership of three neighbouring Councils: Cook Shire, Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire and Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire. 08 July 2022 - 12:11PM...
Moderate and Realistic 2022-23 Budget for Cook
In response to the ongoing challenges faced by our community following the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Jasper, Cook Shire Council announces the implementation of the TC Jasper and Associated Rainfall and Flooding Policy. 29 February 2024 - 04:06PM The yearly Budget...
Curtain Closes on Cooktown’s 2022 Discovery Festival
The 2022 Cooktown Discovery Festival lived up to its name this weekend, as community members, special guests, visitors and stakeholders came together to celebrate, discover – and rediscover – some of what makes Cooktown and life on the Cape so great. 21 June 2022 -...