Port Douglas businessman John Morris wants Bally Hooley Rail Tours to live on under Douglas Shire Council

For Far North businessman John Morris the Bally Hooley steam railway in Port Douglas holds a special place in his heart.

Port Douglas businessman John Morris has offered to donate the Bally Hooley steam rail tours to the Douglas Shire Council Pic: TANYA SNELLING.

FOR Far North businessman John Morris the Bally Hooley steam railway in Port Douglas holds a special place in his heart.

The man many refer to as “Mr Port Douglas” has donated the tourism icon to the Douglas Shire Council, and hopes it can become a lasting asset to the place he has helped build through his various business interests.

Mr Morris, 92, has owned the rail tours since 1986 and spent millions of dollars bringing it up to standard.

The Port Douglas Bally Hooley train holds a special place in the heart of businessman John Morris.

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He said he was approaching the time in his storied life where legacy was important.

“I’m getting to the stage where I need to pass the Bally Hooley tours over to a strong organisation,” he said.

“I think the Douglas Shire Council is obviously the very best solution.”

Mr Morris first planned to leave the business to the Tin Shed, who are currently under financial stress due to the coronavirus situation.

Councillors have moved to undertake an asset and financial due diligence analysis of the business before making a decision to accept the bequest.

Johnny Young, John Morris and Peter Lloyd at the Bally Hooley steam train in Port Douglas. IMAGE: Shane Nichols.

It’s understood Council has been offered ownership of all the Bally Hooley assets, including four trains and six carriages, and the depot and workshop.

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The train tour runs from St Crispin’s Station to the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, stopping at the Mirage Country Club and Oaks Resorts along Port Douglas Road.

“I think Council would do a great job in operating the train service and enhancing the whole operation of it,” Mr Morris said.

“Part of our arrangement would be that the assets must stay where they are in the Douglas Shire, and they continue to be enjoyed and used by young families not only of the region, but from around Australia and internationally.”

Originally published as Port Douglas businessman John Morris wants Bally Hooley Rail Tours to live on under Douglas Shire Council