This petition from electors of the Division of Cook draws to the attention of the House the fact that the residents of the former Douglas Shire, as signed below, are extremely dissatisfied with the amalgamation of the former Douglas Shire Council with the former Cairns City Council. This forced amalgamation has led to significantly higher rates and charges, loss of jobs and loss of service. It was poorly planned, rushed in execution and immediately devastating in effect. The promised “positive” outcomes as per the rationale of the Local Government Reform Commission have not been realised. Your petitioners therefore request the House to de-amalgamate these councils immediately and return the former Douglas Shire Council to its autonomy.