Cenotaph walk shares stories of local service

A new walking display from the Cairns Cenotaph is inviting the community to step into the stories behind 150 years of military service this April in the lead up to Anzac Day.  

Among them is Corporal John William Norris, who grew up in Cairns and served in the Vietnam War. During an ambush in 1966, he pushed younger soldiers to safety under heavy fire, sacrificing his own life. He was just 25 years old.

Stories like this are among  30 shared along the walk.

Each sign highlights the courage, service and personal histories of local servicemen and women, offering a deeper connection to the region’s military history.

Beginning at the Cenotaph, the walk extends towards the Lagoon, creating a gentle, accessible path for visitors to move through and engage with each story at their own pace.

The walk will remain in place throughout April leading into local Anzac Day Services will be held across the Cairns region on 25 April.