Page 4 - Port Douglas Magazine 44

editors

note.

Winter in the Tropics.
There’s something undeniably satisfying about writing that sentence. Winter here in Far North
Queensland doesn’t mean retreating indoors or layering up — it means long, golden days, lush
landscapes revived from the rains, and a town that greets you with sun-warmed smiles and genuine ease.
Ask a local where they’d rather be this time of year, and chances are the answer will be simple: right
here. This is when Port Douglas hits its stride. Life moves effortlessly —between morning swims,
market strolls, spontaneous alfresco lunches, and the occasional decision about where to sip that sunset
cocktail. Balance after all!
Time slows, in the best possible way. “Rush hour” becomes a family ambling down the beach with
buckets and spades, your first caffeine hit at a local coffee shop, or the quiet thrill of sitting at Rex
Smeal Park watching boats cruise out from the marina, bound for a day of reef diving and snorkelling,
fishing, or simply chasing the horizon. Under the watchful eye of the Mossman Gorge, it’s all barefoot,
unhurried, and grounded in the present.
And then there’s the food. From newly picked exotic tropical fruits and locally baked treats to refined tasting menus and fresh seafood
feasts, the region’s culinary scene is every bit as vibrant as the landscape. With so much fresh local produce and serious talent behind the
pass, dining here becomes something to savour slowly, ideally with a glass of something chilled and good company.
There’s a quiet luxury in how time stretches here — not from doing more, although if adventure calls, there are countless hikes and
experiences to get the heart racing and leave you feeling revitalised. In Port Douglas, presence comes naturally. Days don’t rush; they
unfold. And somewhere between the salt air and the fresh Daintree breezes, you find your centre, anchored by simple pleasures, the
freedom to roam or simply be.
This season, we invite you to make Port Douglas your own. Whether it’s a quiet escape, an active adventure, or a little of both, follow
what feels good. Let the memory-making begin.

Whatever you choose,
Enjoy our time.

Sarah

SARAH CULLEN
Editor PD

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CONTRIBUTORS GUEST WRITERS
Glen Abell Charlotte Brennan
Dylan Boyle Nick Fewtrell
Brett Cafun Alison Erdos
Carrie Chiasson
Marco Gionfriddo
Andy Gray PHOTOGRAPHERS
Tania Heben Catseye Productions
Alison Kleyngeld Chris Baker
Heather McGillivray-Taylor John Edmonson
Samantha Martin Photography by Tahnee Jayde COVER
Tahn Miller Port Douglas Sunday Markets
Nick Salter ARTIST CREDIT
Sybella Salter Tania Heben

6 Port Douglas Magazine & Travel Planner