On track to become a vibrant hub for women’s sport

Council has unveiled a bold vision to position the Cairns region as the leading destination for women’s sport in Australia.

At today’s meeting Councillors enthusiastically endorsed the vision, which has the potential to have far-reaching economic and social benefit to the community.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said the vision would seek to transform the city into a vibrant hub for women’s sports.

“The female sporting landscape is evolving, and Cairns is set to lead the way,” Cr Eden said.

“By leveraging our significant sporting infrastructure, the international airport, ample accommodation options, attractive climate and our geographical location, we can elevate the city into being the preeminent destination for Women’s Sport in Australia.

“While I was in Canberra last week meeting with Ministers and government representatives, I had the chance to raise this vision.

“Their eyes got as big as dinner plates, and they started to sparkle because they could see the opportunity a strategic position like this brings.

“We talked about the economic benefits it could bring and the social benefits of having female faces is really important and something that most of us women haven’t grown up with.

“We also talked about how geographically we are perfectly positioned to harness this vision to really impact our neighbours in the Pacific, which is really so exciting.”

Council’s vision follows its support of the AFLW Hawks holding one premiership game in Cairns over the next three years with a $150,000 contribution.

In doing so, Council collaborated with the Queensland Government, AFL Cairns and the Hawthorn Football Club to create the “Northern Nest” - a home away from home for Hawthorn AFLW at Cazaly’s Stadium.

It also builds on seed funding provided in 2023 for Northern Nest, as well as support to hold WBBL fixtures at the venue in 2019.

Local and state sporting associations have all signalled their intentions to host major women’s sporting events in Cairns in the near future, building on the regions already impressive portfolio of content.

Cr Anna Middleton said she was excited about the plan.

“We know that women’s sport is inspiring, we know that it is full of talent, we know that the world is watching, we know that women’s sport is starting to cut its own space, and deservedly so,” she said.

“I think this is a great opportunity, not just with my heart but also with my head, that Cairns can lead this in Australia and get behind these great female athletes.”

Council’s efforts will be consolidated around 5 key pillars:

Partnerships: Collaborate with government, community groups, and local champions.Infrastructure: Enhance facilities for women’s sport and recreation.Events: Work with stakeholders to identify and attract elite events.Promotion: Highlight Cairns’ unique attractions to national and international teams / athletes.Community Activation: Inspire young athletes and celebrate local heroes.