Celebrate Australia Day with free activities, family concert and an awards ceremony
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Free activities, live entertainment featuring local artists and an awards ceremony to acknowledge our city’s humble heroes, are part of Council’s 2025 Australia Day celebrations.
Council will recognise some of Cairns’ unsung heroes with the Australia Day Awards ceremony at the Munro Martin Parklands main stage from 5pm.
Winners will be announced in three categories: Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year.
Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said it was important to acknowledge those people who made selfless contributions to the community.
“The Australia Day Awards are a chance to recognise our unsung heroes,” Cr Eden said.
“They are often humble people who do not seek recognition, but they fully deserve it for the many hours they put in as volunteers to enrich our community and make it an even better place live.
“They are passionate people who help build a stronger and healthier community with no thought of personal gain.”
Following the formalities, a free family concert will be held from 5.30pm to 9pm, with local talent including John Buttigieg, All in Line-Dancers, The Nightshift, Pyrotechnique Fire Dances & Tribal Band, and Social Hour featuring Anais Campbell.
There will also be a free sausage sizzle (while the snags last), food vendors, and kids’ activities, including face painting, games and some fun surprises.
“On Australia Day we reflect on what it means to be Australian, and what it means to celebrate our ‘Cairnsness’,” Cr Eden said.
“It is about celebrating the values we share and all the things we love about our country and our city.
“I believe Australia Day is about all of us coming together – celebrating what makes our country the best place on earth to live, work and play.
“We are a multicultural nation and Australia Day is an opportunity for us to come together and celebrate where and how we live – a chance to be inspired by the people, cultures and diversity that make Cairns great.”
Residents can also dive into the Australia Day spirit by taking advantage of free entry at Woree and Smithfield pools from 9am to 3pm.
The city will also welcome more than 180 new Australians from over 35 nations on Sunday afternoon with a special citizenship ceremony at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre.
“Becoming an Australian citizen is a special occasion, especially on our national day,” Cr Eden said.
“As Mayor, it is an honour to preside over citizenship ceremonies and welcome our newest Australians.
“Our community is richer for the diversity of the people that call our region home.”
Weather note
Celebrate with us – rain or shine.
If it rains, bring a raincoat and dress for the weather, as the event will go ahead at Munro Martin Parklands. In severe weather, we’ll move to the Cairns Performing Arts Centre. Stay updated on Cairns Regional Council’s Facebook page.