Tanks Arts Centre
46 Collins Avenue, Edge Hill
Tanks Arts Centre is the leading contemporary arts venue in the region voted Cairns’ Best Entertainment Venue for seven years in a row, bringing the best local, National and International performers and touring shows to the region.
Situated in the Cairns Botanic Gardens precinct, just 4km north of the city’s CBD, the centre is an iconic and innovative multi-use, contemporary arts facility housed in three converted World War 2 naval oil storage tanks, and set amidst a lush rainforest backdrop.
The main performance space, Tank 5, has a licensed bar and standing capacity of 650 (seated 480). The rugged, oil-stained poles and sheer concrete walls imbue the venue with a Gothic charm that never fails to impress both performer and patrons. With a strong focus on music, expect to see the best of Australian and international acts.
Tanks Arts Centre presents a full program of live music, theatre, visual arts, market days and workshops. History, nature and culture are entwined at this iconic heritage listed site, which has been creatively transformed into a contemporary arts facility. This iconic venue is entrenched in the creative fabric of Cairns and the surrounding Wet Tropics region.
View the Tanks Seating Policy here.
Parking and accessibility
Free car parking is available close to the site along Collins Avenue and in Tank 1 car park (close to railway line and the Sheridan Street entrance to Collins Avenue).
Three accessible car parks can be found directly in front of the Main Entrance to Tanks Arts Centre (in front of Tank 4); and one on Collins Avenue in front of Tank Sixty Four Café.
Tanks Arts Centre is fully wheelchair accessible with compliant graded paths and access points. Tank 3 has a compliant graded ramp to enter and exit the venue. Accessible bathrooms are located beside Tank 5 and in the Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre (subject to opening hours).
View an aerial map of the Tanks Arts Centre in the Cairns Botanic Gardens Precinct.
For accessibility information on Cairns Regional Council arts venues.