Cairns 150 Years: Celebrating our city’s history in 2026
A community invitation to help tell the story of our region
In 2026, Cairns marks 150 years since the establishment of the colonial township. To mark this milestone, the Cairns Historical Society will deliver a major program of exhibitions, talks and community storytelling, supported by a $25,000 Community Partnership Grant from Cairns Regional Council.
This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reflect on the people, cultures and events that have shaped life in the tropical north. From early colonists to emerging voices, we’re inviting the community to help share the stories that matter.
We're looking for local stories, historical photos, research projects and personal reflections that help tell the story of our region.
Contact Dr Sandi Robb to get involved > eo@cairnsmuseum.org.au
What’s planned for 2026
Led by the Cairns Historical Society, the Cairns 150 program will run throughout 2026 and includes six major exhibitions, a commemorative publication and a full calendar of community-led storytelling, including public talks, guest blogs and bulletin articles.
Confirmed stories already underway include:
- Saltwater Art – Yirrganydji artist Patricia Singleton
- Twin Beginnings: First Settlement at Smithfield – Dr Sarah Collins
- Fostering the Junior Performing Arts: 70 Years of Cairns Eisteddfod – Cairns & District Junior Eisteddfod Association
- 150 Years of Girl Guides – Shani Ritchi
- Decades of Dedication: CAFNEC’s Legacy of Environmental Stewardship – CAFNEC
- Future Tense – Cairns Historical Society
This program reflects the Society’s commitment to preserving and sharing the diverse social history of our region. It embraces cultural, gender, age and perspective diversity – bringing together stories of artists, inventors, environmentalists, community leaders, old families and new arrivals.
Be part of the story
The Society is now inviting contributions from individuals, families and local groups across the region. If you have a story to share, a talk to propose, historical photos or personal archives, or a research idea that could shape an exhibition, bulletin or blog, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact Dr Sandi Robb > eo@airnsmuseum.org.au
A full schedule of exhibitions and public events will be announced later in 2025.
