General News
18 June, 2025
Events to add vibrancy
A HOST of sporting and cultural events, ranging from Gaelic football and hurling, a Bengali Hindu festival, carols and fireworks, Indigenous concerts, wheelchair sport and even a festival celebrating Maori heritage have all been backed by grants from Cairns Regional Council.
Twenty-four groups will share in more than $335,000 of council funding under the community partnerships grant stream, ranging from $25,000 to $5000 to deliver a variety of a community activities.
A council report said the grant stream aimed to promote events that “enhance the lives of residents, celebrate important community occasions and provide opportunities to develop social cohesion and connection in the Cairns region”.
Cr Cathy Zeiger told the May 28 meeting she was pleased the council was supporting so many events that “celebrate the vibrancy and colour that makes up Cairns”.
She said they would draw visitors from across Australia and from overseas.
Cr Anna Middlton noted that six of the events were being held for the first time and she was pleased the council was helping to bring them to fruition.
Cr Matthew Tickner said the South Side Celebration by Mission Australia received $5000.
He said the event was getting bigger and better every year.
Nga Matawaka was given $20,000 for the FNQ New Zealand Cultural Festival – Matariki (Māori new year).
Cr Cathy Zeiger said it would be “massive, brilliant party” and attract 5000 visitors from across Australia over three days on the Cairns Esplanade, the Cairns Yacht Club and a community festival at PCYC Edmonton.
For a full list of the grants visit:
