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

CEO finishes at Cairns Regional Council

Chief Executive Officer Mica Martin has resigned from her role at Cairns Regional Council....

Australia’s best loved scientist coming to Ecofiesta

The country’s best known and most charismatic scientist is coming to town as a special guest of Cairns Ecofiesta 2024....

Council services and road closures for Anzac Day

Cairns Regional Council advises there will be changes to services and road closures on Thursday associated with Anzac Day....