$128,000 to support Cairns’ diverse events program

From writing to rugby league, hockey to ‘hot and steamy’, Council is supporting the region’s diverse events program through $128,000 in grant funding.

Council’s Major Event Sponsorship program supports activities that will generate economic activity through attracting out-of-region visitors.

The 2025 Tropical Writers Festival has received $20,000 for its March 2025 event. The festival brings together the region’s community of writers and readers while attracting presenters and visitors from across the country.

A further $50,000 has been allocated to the Hockey Australia Trans-Tasman Masters Challenge 2025, which will bring field hockey players aged 35+ from across Australia and New Zealand to the city for a 5-day competition in May.

The third recipient of the sponsorship program, Hot and Steamy Festival, will receive $20,000. Originating in Port Douglas, festival organisers are bringing the event to Cairns in February. Timed the weekend prior to Sydney Mardi Gras, Hot and Steamy Festival is a three-day celebration of love, diversity and inclusion.

Council has also awarded funding under its Community Partnership Grants, designed to enhance the lives of local communities, celebrate important community occasions and provide opportunities to develop social cohesion and connection in the Cairns region.

Cairns Multicultural Committee will receive $20,000 for its annual CARMA

Festival and Youth Peace Finale. Considered the premium multicultural event within the Cairns region, more than 10,000 people attend the free festival focused on sharing culture through food, dance, arts and crafts, music and other activities. The 2024 event will be held on 7 September.

FNQ Rugby League is the final grant recipient, receiving $18,600 in support to host part of its finals season at Barlow Park.