Entertainment
7 November, 2026
Gallery looks beyond 2026
THE Cairns Art Gallery Foundation has brought together artists, supporters and members of the local arts community for its 2026 annual dinner at the historic Court House Building on 24 October 2026.
The evening featured contemporary art, local food and wine, and a silent auction, with proceeds benefiting local artists and future acquisitions for the Cairns Art Gallery’s Permanent Collection.
Special guest Tracey Moffatt, one of Australia’s most celebrated contemporary artists, attended the event, which was held against the colourful backdrop of the ‘Craig & Karl: Double Vision’ exhibition.
Guests enjoyed food prepared by Nu Nu and wines curated by The Wine Tradition NQ, as the foundation celebrated Cairns’ creative community and its ongoing support for the arts.
A highlight of the evening was the silent auction of original artworks, which gave guests the opportunity to contribute to the foundation’s work while supporting the region’s artistic community.
Cairns Art Gallery Foundation chairwoman Sarah Mort joined fellow foundation board members and gallery representatives for the event.
Among those attending were gallery director Angela Goddard, Cr Anna Middleton, Emily Rohr, Leah Hortsmann, Georgina Twomey and Lea Ovaska.
The annual gathering also provided an opportunity for supporters to come together and recognise the Cairns Art Gallery’s role in the region’s cultural life.
The Craig & Karl: Double Vision exhibition provided a colourful setting for the dinner, with its large-scale graphic artwork serving as a backdrop for photographs of guests throughout the evening.
The event brought together the gallery’s contemporary art program with contributions from local hospitality businesses and foundation supporters.
Funds raised through the silent auction will support local artists and contribute to future acquisitions for the Cairns Art Gallery’s Permanent Collection, extending the impact of the annual dinner beyond the evening itself.
