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

King tides expected in Cairns from Saturday

King tides are expected to affect Cairns this week, starting from Saturday 8 to Friday 14 August....

Disaster Preparedness & Recovery
5 August 2026

Grab a bargain at this year’s Trash to Treasure

Want to give old items a second life, learn new skills, snap up a bargain or simply enjoy a free...

General Updates
5 August 2026

Council highlights advocacy wins

Hundreds of millions of dollars for housing, water security and major infrastructure are among the significant advocacy outcomes secured for...

Business & Economy
31 July 2026