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
New chapter for Cominos House community hub
Cominos House in Manunda will continue to serve the community as a valued local facility, with Council approving a new...
25 June 2026
Waste fee changes to support fair services
Cairns Regional Council is updating fees and charges at its transfer stations from 1 July to ensure waste services remain...
25 June 2026
New strategy for a more resilient Cairns
Today, Council endorsed the Cairns Social Resilience Strategy 2026–2030, establishing a framework to strengthen social resilience across the region and...
24 June 2026