RESIDENTS from the Douglas Shire, Mareeba Shire, the Tablelands, Cairns, the Cassowary Coast and Cook Shire will be eligible to obtain a Douglas Card for free access on the Daintree ferry for four months from November 1.

Previously known as the Smart Card, the Douglas Card will be released in conjunction with a promotion by Tourism Port Douglas Daintree (TPDD) which will produce a brochure of offers from participating Daintree businesses.

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Mayor Julia Leu said the Douglas Card was a great way for the council to promote economic development north of the Daintree River.

“Free ferry travel encourages bona fide residents from neighbouring local government areas to take a trip to the Daintree during the low season and discover the fabulous range of accommodation and activities available as well as explore the natural beauty of the area,” she said.

“Businesses in the Daintree have been very supportive of this concept since it was first introduced in 2011 and we have expanded it to residents of Cook Shire for the first time, meaning there are more than 200,000 people now eligible to apply for a Douglas Card.”

TPDD executive officer Tara Bennett said the positive feedback received from Daintree operators highlighted the success of the concept.

“Free ferry travel provides an added incentive for regional residents to revisit the Daintree and all that it has to offer,” Ms Bennett said.

Existing holders of a Smart Card will need to reapply for the new Douglas Card, which will have no expiry date set at this stage.

Use of the Douglas Card will be restricted to fare categories motor car and utilities (private use), pedestrians, bicycles and motorbikes.

Card applicants need to provide photographic identification and proof of local residency .