Facts, figures & history
First People's history & languages
Stories, history and culture of the many First Peoples language groups that called the Cairns region home for thousands of years.
Geography & population
The Cairns region is located within on a narrow coastal strip between the Great Dividing Range and the Coral Sea, and is part of Australia’s Wet Tropics. The estimated residential population of the Cairns region was 161,932 persons as at 30 June 2016.
History of Cairns from the 1870s
History of Cairns following European settlement, Cairns during World War II, significant milestones, and heritage drives and trails.
Street, suburb and park names
Do you want to know more about your street name, suburb history or park name? Read about the origin and histories of local places of interest.
City symbols
Information on the meaning of the Cairns Regional Council logo, city crest and floral emblem.
Last Updated: 5 October 2021
Latest News > All News
Queensland Budget delivers funding boost to Cairns water security
The Miles Government is strengthening water security for Cairns, using the recent state budget to increase funding toward the Cairns...
Council statement on recent media coverage
Council statement in response to recent media coverage on the appointment of the interim CEO....
Have your say on Cairns’ future aquatic facilities needs
Residents are being invited to provide their views on the future aquatic facility needs of the Cairns region....