Cairns Art Gallery Precinct

The Cairns Art Gallery is the flagship public art institution in Far North Queensland. Housed in the heritage-listed Public Curators Building, its transformation into an art gallery was the result of a sustained community and civic effort that began in 1979. Originally completed in 1936 as government offices designed by RC Nowland, the building was repurposed and opened as the Cairns Regional Gallery on 15 July 1995. Today, it combines historic architectural features with modern gallery facilities across three floors. It is recognised for its strong programs and collections reflecting the unique cultures of North Queensland and the Asia-Pacific region.

Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-2pm

Cnr Shields and Abbott streets, Cairns City

Located on a two-acre site reserved for public use since 1876, the Court House Building (formerly Court House Gallery) occupies Cairns’ former courthouse building, constructed between 1919 and 1921. Originally serving as the city’s second courthouse (replacing an earlier 1880s structure), the building was restored and adapted as a gallery and performance space, opening in 2021 with a dynamic program of visual and performing arts. This historic building now forms an integral part of the broader gallery precinct.

Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Sat 10am-5pm, Sun Closed

38 Abbott Street, Cairns City

The Mulgrave Building (formerly Mulgrave Gallery) is housed in the former Mulgrave Shire Council Chambers, a distinctive early-20th-century building constructed in 1912–1913. After serving various civic functions, including as a visitor information centre, it was repurposed and officially opened as a dedicated gallery space in 2024 as part of the expanding Cairns cultural landscape. This beautifully restored venue offers multiple exhibition spaces linking with the other galleries via landscaped paths and shared public space.

Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Sat 10am-5pm, Sun Closed

51 Esplanade, Cairns City