Heritage

Heritage is an important aspect of any community.

Heritage places are important for a number of reasons; they provide a tangible connection to the people and events that have shaped the Cairns region into the place we now live.  They help use to appreciate the social and technological changes that have gone before us and give a point of reference for the changes to come.

Council is committed to protecting and managing the cultural heritage of our region for current and future generations.

Local Heritage Studies

Council has undertaken local heritage studies to identify, assess and document places of local heritage significance within the region. 

Local Heritage Register

Council established a Local Heritage Register in accordance with the requirements of the Queensland Heritage Act 1992 on 25 January 2012.

Chronological history

The Cairns region has an interesting history featuring many exciting events dating back to 1770. This chronological timeline contains details of many significant events associated with the region's growth including construction of the first roads, introduction of gas street lights and the opening of significant buildings.

Neighbourhood character study

The CairnsPlan currently designates a number of character precincts and local heritage areas across the city and surrounding suburbs.  Council commissioned a Neighbourhood Character Study to undertake a detailed review of these precincts and identify valued elements of the character of each of the precincts that should be retained and enhanced.

Street names & suburb history

Do you want to know more about your street name and suburb history?  Read about the origin and histories of local places of interest.