Between two UNESCO World Heritage sites – the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest – Cairns and Great Barrier Reef offer exceptional off-site venues that are sure to impress delegates at social events. Reuse is one of the three key strategies for waste reduction. So repurposing historic and distinctive venues originally designed for different purposes showcases how conservation and preservation can be implemented on a broader scale – enhancing the region’s sustainability narrative.
The MillThe Mill
The Mill is Cairns and Great Barrier Reef’s newest offsite venue, located ten minutes from the city centre. Originally built in 1886 and expanded in 1921, the venue was acquired by the Rankine family in 1962 and remains the largest timber yard north of Brisbane, Queensland.
The Mill has been refurbished with a concrete floor specifically to host events up to 2,000 guests. It offers options for undercover seated galas and to extend outdoors onto the lawn under the stars, creating a festival atmosphere. You can even design your own fairground, complete with a Ferris wheel, giant slide and dodgem cars!
The Tanks Art CentreThe Tanks Art Centre
Located within the breathtaking Cairns Botanic Gardens just five minutes from the vibrant city centre, the Tanks Art Centre stands as a remarkable testament to creativity and innovation. This iconic venue is housed within three repurposed World War II naval oil storage tanks, each rich with history and character.
Originally constructed in 1944, the tanks have been thoughtfully transformed by the Cairns Regional Council into extraordinary spaces while retaining their original charm through striking oil-stained timber columns supporting the expansive roof, creating a unique blend of rustic and contemporary aesthetics.
With capacity to accommodate up to 1,200 guests in a cocktail-style arrangement across the three tanks and the lush rainforest gardens, the Tanks Art Centre is perfect for large gatherings. Alternatively, it offers intimate banquet-style seating for 330 guests, allowing for creative configurations that encourage engagement and interaction.
Port Douglas Sugar Wharf welcome functionPort Douglas Sugar Wharf
A tribute to the rich agricultural history of Cairns and Great Barrier Reef, the heritage-listed Sugar Wharf in Port Douglas stands as an enduring symbol of the region’s past. Built in 1904, this iconic structure predates the highway that would eventually connect Port Douglas to Cairns. Once bustling with activity, the wharf was linked to a train line, allowing cartloads of sugar to be effortlessly transported from surrounding farms to waiting ships.
Today, the Sugar Wharf has transformed into one of Port Douglas’ most sought-after event venues, offering breathtaking 180-degree views of the sparkling Coral Sea. With ample space, the open-air deck can accommodate 120 guests under the sky, while the original timber-clad interior can host up to 200.
Cairns Cruise Liner TerminalCairns Cruise Liner Terminal and Hemingway’s Brewery
Constructed in 1910, the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal and Hemingway’s Brewery stand as an exquisite example of traditional timber and iron wharf architecture overlooking the breathtaking Trinity Inlet, framed by lush green mountains in the background. Heritage-listed in 1999 and over a century old, they seamlessly blend the charm of history with modern amenities.
Authentic wall cladding, ornate wooden trusses and original lead nails tell a story of craftsmanship from a bygone era, while the polished concrete floors and exposed timber beams show a rich character.
The Cruise Liner Terminal is an idyllic setting for breakfast or lunch, inviting guests to soak in the natural beauty. Equally, attendees can use the space for a grand gala dinner, throwing open shed doors to welcome the tropical breeze and reveal a canopy of stars.
Adjacent to the terminal, Hemingway’s Brewery offers freshly-brewed beers crafted on-site. This location accommodates a variety of group sizes, offering versatile seating options both indoors – with a view of the brewing process – and outdoors, against the backdrop of a picturesque waterfront.
A five-minute walk from the Cairns Convention Centre and city hotels, the prime waterside location of the Cruise Liner Terminal and Hemingway’s Brewery makes them ideal venues for events that want to weave historic grandeur into the evening!
The Sugar ShedThe Sugar Shed
Nothing embodies the spirit of North Queensland quite like sugar cane. As Cairns and Great Barrier Reef’s top agricultural crop, vast fields of lush sugar cane nestled at the foot of the majestic mountain range can be seen swaying in the breeze.
A 15-minute drive from the city’s hotels brings you to the Sugar Shed, which remains part of a working cane farm. This unique venue has been thoughtfully transformed to celebrate the rich agricultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes of the region.
Timing your visit for sunset is essential, as the experience is nothing short of magical. Picture yourself sipping a cold beer, served from the tray of a front-end loader as the sky gradually shifts from deep blue to vibrant pink – the Australian sun dipping behind the mountains while the sounds of a band are heard performing from the back of a flatbed truck.
Wolf Lane Distillery
Tucked away in a charming city laneway stands a beautifully repurposed red brick horse stable, dating back to 1905. This enchanting venue has a colourful history, having once served as a bank and real estate agency. However, the creative minds behind Wolf Lane have meticulously restored it, peeling back layers to reveal its original character and transforming it into a distillery and cocktail bar.
This venue offers an ideal setting for after-dinner drinks, where guests can unwind in a cosy atmosphere or take part in engaging cocktail-making sessions that spotlight the essence of a quintessential North Queensland gin. For those looking to make a larger statement, events can spill out into the lane and create their own street party.
Cairns Art Gallery
Infuse your dining experience with a touch of artistry by hosting your event in the breathtaking setting of the Heritage-listed Cairns Art Gallery. Constructed in 1934, this remarkable venue originally served as one of the government buildings in the vibrant city of Cairns. In 1994, it was transformed into the Cairns Art Gallery, preserving its historical charm while embracing contemporary elements.
Today, the gallery offers an enchanting backdrop for exclusive seated dinners accommodating up to 70 guests, allowing them to dine surrounded by captivating Australian artworks. For those looking to elevate the atmosphere, the original balconies provide a lovely setting for cocktail parties, welcoming up to 120 guests.
Screen Queensland Studios
Did someone mention Bond? James Bond? Transforming a former retail hardware store into a cutting-edge film and television studio complex, Screen Queensland Studios offers a unique venue that doubles as a sophisticated space for gala awards dinners. Soaring ceilings and sleek polished concrete floors sets the stage for an upscale experience.
Lay a vibrant red carpet to instantly evoke the glamour of the Oscars as delegates make their grand arrival. Conveniently located just a five-minute transfer from the city centre in a discreet industrial quarter, this studio complex provides an ideal setting, free from the prying eyes of the paparazzi.
From history to heritage, fine art to film, timber to tanks, Cairns and Great Barrier Reef lead the way in repurposing historic and unique venues that authentically bring the region’s sustainability ethos to life. For more information, visit https://businesseventscairns.org.au/suppliers/offsite-venues/
