I have to say that the view from the new deck at the Port Douglas Combined Club Inc - also known as the Tin Shed - has got to be the best in the region. It's a 180 degree panorama of mountains with the mangrove-fringed inlet in the foreground and the sea to the east. At the opening on Saturday 8th August it was crowded with locals and tourists; and the stunning location is the envy of restaurants in Port.

The extension would not have happened without nearly a decade of work by the former and current committees and is an excellent example of just how hard many volunteers work to provide facilities, equipment, services and programs for their communities. There are dozens of such committees across the region being driven by passionate volunteers who know that you need to give generously in order to build healthy communities.

As well as providing a great venue for its members, the Port Combined Club usually donates around $50,000 a year to community groups.

Pictured is the current President Michael Jones and committee member Graham Russell, who were enjoying the day, and restrained themselves from having a go at me about the rates!