Useful Information for visiting Port Douglas

Here is some information that should help your Port Douglas holiday run smoothly.

Phone Numbers

• Emergency (Police, Fire & Ambulance): 000
• International dialing code: +61

Weather

Port Douglas has only two seasons, wet and dry. The wet season starts in November and continues up to May. During the wet season Port Douglas experiences frequent rains and can become quite balmy, with temperatures rising up to 30C/86F. The Dry season starts in June and goes on until October, with warm sunny days and cooler nights with the temperature varying between 29C/84F to 11C/51F.

Surf and Sun Safety

Australia has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world so it can be tempting to throw caution to the wind. Always play it safe by swimming between the red and yellow flags in beaches that are patrolled by lifeguards. Protect your skin from sun damage by following the simple Slip, Slop and Slap rule- Slip on a shirt, Slop on some sunscreen and Slap on a hat.

Money

ATMs are easily found around Port Douglas. Most places accept the major credit cards, American Express, MasterCard, Diners Club and Visa. However, some of the smaller restaurants and shops may only accept cash.

Currency converters can be found in the Cairns Airport and the banks in Port Douglas.

• Bendigo Bank
  Address: 11-17 Macrossan Street, Port Douglas
  Phone: (07) 4099 4231

• Westpac Bank
  Address: 5/43 Macrossan Street, Port Douglas
  Phone: (07) 4030 4977

GST

A 10% Goods and Services Tax is added to most items that you purchase and is included in the display price. Visitors to Australia may be issued a refund at the airport for the GST of goods over $300 purchased within 30 days of leaving Australia. For more details, consult the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service. Ph: 1300 363 263

Tipping

Tipping is not expected in Australia. However, if you experience really good service and want to show your appreciation, 10% of the bill is an acceptable amount for a tip.

Time Zone

The Standard time zone on the Port Douglas is GMT + 10 hours

Bars

The minimum age for the purchase and consumption of alcohol is 18. Minors will not be permitted to enter a bar if not accompanied by an adult.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited at indoor public places and cigarettes will not be sold to minors.

Medical Services

• Mossman Hospital
  Address: 9 Hospital Street, Mossman
  Phone: (07) 4084 1200

• Cairns Day Surgery
  Address: 156-160 Grafton Street, Cairns
  Phone: (07) 4051 5454

• Royal Flying Doctor Service
  Address: 1 Junction Street, Edge Hill
  Phone: (07) 3860 1100

Visitor Information

• Port Douglas Tourist Information
  Address: 23 Macrossan Street, Port Douglas
  Phone: (07) 4099 5599