From a single public meeting in 1986 to one of the Douglas Shire's most trusted community organisations — this is the story of how Mossman Support Services grew from grassroots beginnings into the service that stands today.
Four decades of
community
1986
Founded — public meeting,
Mossman
1991
Community Centre
officially opened
2016
Rebranded as Mossman
Support Services
40+
Years serving the
Douglas Shire
Our story through the years
A journey of growth, resilience and unwavering commitment to the Douglas Shire community.
A community comes together
In March 1986, a public meeting in Mossman led to the opening of a local branch of the Alcohol and Drug Foundation of Queensland — the seed from which everything grew.
Counselling service formed
By mid-1989, the Mossman and Port Douglas Community Counselling Service was formed as a subcommittee of the Alcohol and Drug Foundation, following a successful joint submission with the Port Douglas Community Services Network.
Independence & incorporation
In June 1991, the group became independent from the Alcohol and Drug Foundation and established the Douglas Shire Community Services Association Ltd (DSCSA Ltd) with volunteer management.
🏛️ The Community Centre opens
The Mossman Community Centre — housed in the former Mossman Police Station residence — was officially opened on 17 October 1991. A landmark moment for the community.
Youth Services begins
Youth Services launched in 1997, initially funded under the Rural Youth Worker Initiative — bringing dedicated support for young people in the Douglas Shire for the first time.
Three years of new funding secured
New funding was received through the Social and Economic Development Services for Young People Initiative. Youth Services now operates from rooms in the Douglas Shire Hall building at the corner of Mill Street and Junction Road, with funding from the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability.
Flexi Respite Service launched
In July 2001, DSCSA Ltd received funding from Disability Services Queensland to create a Flexi Respite Service for the Douglas Shire. Lifestyle Support Connections — operating from an office behind the Community Centre at 20 Mill Street — began providing services to people with disabilities and their families.
20 Mill Street purchased
DSCSA Ltd purchased 20 Mill Street after receiving funding from the Community Facilities Upgrade Strategy — securing a permanent home for community services in Mossman.
22 Mill Street — 30-year lease
The Douglas Shire Council purchased the vacant lot at 22 Mill Street. DSCSA Ltd signed a 30-year lease to provide additional office and storage space for community services.
🏗️ The Shed & The Cottage open
Two new buildings — 'The Shed' and 'The Cottage' — were constructed and officially opened on 24 August 2007, funded by community grants and local support. These spaces continue to serve the community today.
Company limited by guarantee
In 2015, the organisation transitioned from an incorporated association to a company limited by guarantee — establishing a formal Board of Directors and strengthening governance.
🌟 Mossman Support Services
In May 2016, DSCSA Ltd officially rebranded under the trading name Mossman Support Services — the name that represents our community's heart today.
📄 Our 25-Year History
A more detailed account of our first 25 years is available as a PDF download. Please note this document may not meet current accessibility standards.
The story continues
From those early community meetings to the vibrant, multi-service organisation of today — Mossman Support Services continues to grow, adapt and serve. Read our latest Annual Report or learn more about what we do.