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
Works underway to restore critical water infrastructure
Fast-tracked remediation works are underway to bring two of Council’s largest reservoirs back into service. It will strengthen water storage...
12 June 2026
Recycling contamination is increasing costs
Cairns households generate around 50,000 tonnes of waste each year, costing Council approximately $16 million to collect, process and dispose...
11 June 2026
King tides expected from Friday
King tides are expected to affect Cairns this from week, from Friday 12 June through to Saturday 20 June....
10 June 2026