Cairns is the capital
city of Far North Queensland. The 16th largest city in Australia,
with a population of over 120,000 people, Cairns is continuing to
be a favoured destination - for its rare mixture of ecological environments
and its cosmopolitan, colourful coastal character.
Cairns' location is absolutely magnificent. Located
400km from the northernest part of the State of Queensland, it lies
on the warm waters of Trinity Bay. No matter which direction is
taken you will come across a World Heritage listed site or one of
vivid natural beauty.
To
the East:
The
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Coral Cays and Tropical
Islands.
To
the West:
The
mountainous Rainforest and the plains of the Atherton Tablelands.
To
the North:
Wet
tropics rainforest and World Heritage National Parks.
To
the South:
Rugged
Ranges and numerous Waterfalls & Lakes.
Apart from its unique location and natural wonders,
Cairns is set apart from its sister cities by a highly distinctive
structural character. One most conspicuous feature is the distinct
lack of high rises.
Yet Cairns continues to develop & modernise
- as can be appreciated from endeavours such as the Cairns Convention
Centre, Cairns Reef Casino, Cairns City Council Chambers and major
shopping complexes - whilst preserving sweet touches from its pioneering
days,such as The Old cemetary on McLeod Street or the brand "new"
library on the corner of Abbott/Aplin streets. These are just some
of the unique structures that help to add a sense of living history
to this relatively young 123 year old coastal city.
The Esplanade
The Esplanade
The Esplanade is peaceful during the
day with visitors catching the early morning rays and watching
the unique birdlife feeding along the mudflats. Palm
trees line the length of the Esplanade highlighting the Tropical
feel of this warm city. After the sun goes down, the
Esplanade is a hive of activity with traders and restaurants
preparing for the hundreds of people who flock to embrace
the almost carnivale atmosphere. The aroma of pasta,
seafood and steaks are in the air as restaurants and eateries
feed hungry visitors and locals. Tour booking
agencies are busy with tourists booking the next few days
of activities.
The Cairns Regional Art Gallery is located
in the City Centre. The Building itself is a work of
art. The Gallery is housed in what used to be the Cairns
Courthouse. This is a classic example of the nostalgic
architecture found in Cairns.
Whilst at the Cairns Regional Art Gallery
you may wish to enjoy a cup of coffee or a light snack at
Perrotta's in front of the Gallery. From here you can
relax and enjoy the atmosphere of Cairns.
Apart from all the gaming you would expect from an Internationally
operated Casino, you will be enchanted with the architectual
& interior design of this modern complex. Upstairs is
the Atrium housing glass domed gardens, the venue of numerous
shows hosted by the Casino. Downstairs is the Nite Club
1936 - taking a trip back to New York in the 1930's, with
dancers in costume. The lobby often displays the work
of prominent artists for visitors. Inside the Casino
you be pleasantly surprised by the deco of the gaming tables
and beautiful ceilings. The only thing you are guaranteed
to lose is your breath.
Monday-Thursday
10am to 4am (18hrs)
Friday - Saturday- Sunday (24hrs)
Another new addition to Cairns, the Convention Centre is
the venue to national and international performing artists.
It is also the home of the Cairns Taipans, our national basketball
league team. The design of this building is once again
a highlight to Cairns, its unique shell-like design incorporates
into the Tropical theme of Cairns. It boasts state of
the art facilities, for small conferences under 100 to large
conventions for over 3000.
The heart of the City of Cairns, you will find assorted retail
shops, tour booking agencies, Internet access, restaurants
and free entertainment. The sound shell regularly offers
free entertainment with Island dancers and local artists performing
free for the public. The architecture is that of the old and
new Cairns with buildings from a bygone era side by side with
the new. Here you will also find the Cairns Museum where visitors
and locals can learn about Cairns and how it became the International
destination it is today.
