Business
7 May, 2026
Cairns Hardware marks 50 years
CAIRNS Hardware has been part of the North Queensland community for more than 50 years, supporting local builders, tradies and homeowners with practical advice, reliable supply and a strong understanding of regional conditions.
Since opening its doors in Cairns in the mid-1970s, the business has grown steadily while maintaining its focus on people, relationships and local communities.
As a family-owned business, Cairns Hardware’s values are reflected in the way it operates day to day.
People sit at the centre of everything it does – from looking after its team and customers, to building long term relationships with suppliers and local partners. That people first approach has helped shape a reputation for service that is hands on, dependable and grounded in local knowledge.
Over time, Cairns Hardware has continued to evolve alongside the region it supports. By adapting to changing market needs while staying true to its core values, the business has grown into a well-established regional supplier supporting projects of all sizes across North Queensland. Its steady approach, focused on reliability and relationships, has earned the trust of builders, tradespeople and homeowners alike.
Community remains a strong focus for the business. Cairns Hardware places emphasis on working safely, doing the right thing and supporting its people to grow. Many team members have built long careers within the company, and ongoing investment in local employment, skills development and apprenticeships plays an important role in strengthening both the workforce and the wider community.
Today, the business provides a broad range of products and services for trade and DIY customers through a network of stores spanning Cooktown, Mossman, Smithfield, Cairns, Edmonton, Gordonvale, Mareeba, Atherton, Innisfail, Townsville and Charters Towers. This footprint ensures customers across a large geographic area have access to materials, support and local expertise.
Specialist centres within the business offer focused expertise in areas such as tools, paint, plasterboard, bathrooms and kitchens, timber and outdoor living solutions. Cairns Hardware also operates several local manufacturing divisions producing doors and door frames, custom windows and security screens, trusses and wall frames, as well as roofing and guttering. These local manufacturing capabilities allow the business to respond quickly to regional building needs while maintaining consistent quality.
Employing more than 500 people, Cairns Hardware is one of the region’s significant employers. Its reach extends beyond the mainland, with regular deliveries supporting customers in remote communities, including Papua New Guinea and the Torres Strait Islands.
With a strong foundation in people and place, Cairns Hardware continues to play an important role in building homes, businesses and communities across North Queensland.
