Tropic Weekender: Our guide to the best events and things to do in Cairns
From arts and culture to music concerts, workshops, and comedy shows, Cairns has something for everyone this week.
There's an Arts & Culture Funding Info Session for artists, and Talking Pictures is exploring the history and power of the movie The Island of Dr. Moreau.
Meanwhile, local independent artist LT is celebrating the release of their new single Act Your Age, and the Undara Outback Rock and Blues Festival promises hours of music over the weekend.
Plus, there's plenty more live music, workshops, and performances to get amongst.
As always, if you're looking for even more to do check out our Guide to Art Exhibitions, or discover the Cairns and Tablelands market scenes.
Wednesday 19 April
Creative Life are hosting an Arts & Culture Funding Information Session to help artists, musicians, theatre groups, community arts workers, and painters secure funding for their creative projects. Cairns Regional Council will provide information on how to apply for RADF grants, and attendees can ask questions and hear from previous grant recipients. The current round closes on May 8th, with projects needing to commence from July or later.
Australia's biggest Crystal Pop Up Show has come to FNQ. The show includes a massive range of crystals including pendants, tumbled stones, spheres, and geodes. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned collector, it's worth a stop. Entry is free and it's on through to Sunday at the showgrounds.
Thursday 20 April
Talking Pictures is exploring the history and power of the movie The Island of Dr. Moreau. The moderator, Fiona Sewell, will lead a discussion with special guests from the film industry before screening. The movie, shot in FNQ, faced numerous challenges and featured many locals as extras. David Hudson, who played Bison Man, will join Fiona Sewell for a Q&A session, sharing insights into his experience working with the film's impressive cast, including Marlon Brando and Temuera Morrison.
Friday 21 April
Join local independent artist LT in celebrating the release of their new single Act Your Age, written in collaboration with renowned writers (Eskimo Joe, G-Flip, Meg Mac) and Edwin White (Vance Joy). The song explores themes of ageism in the music industry and societal pressures. Don't miss the launch party at The Tanks!
It's never too soon, get ready to celebrate Oktoberfest early with a night of traditional Bavarian fun and games at the German Club with Alpine Night Lederhose, join in the competitions, floor show, music, and dancing. German beers on tap will be cold and ready in both half-litre and full one-litre beer steins, and there will be delicious food to satisfy your taste buds.
The Undara Outback Rock and Blues Festival kicks off today and runs all weekend long. It features some of the best emerging artists in Australia and promises hours of music over the three days, including performances by Genevieve Chadwick, Lady Valiant, Peter Cornelius, Ben Ford Davies, and Ezra Lee & The Nomads.
Saturday 22 April
Wax on Wax is back with its second instalment at Sauce Brewing Co. The event showcases some of the finest musicians in Cairns, offering a platform for local talents to perform their original tunes. Along with live music, attendees can also enjoy live art, poetry, games, and prizes. Wax on Wax encourages attendees to connect with other like-minded artists, build ideas, and explore new opportunities for collaboration.
Learn basic metalsmith techniques to create your own earring or pendant design with jewellery artist Rose Mercer in this limited six-participant workshop Silver, Copper, Brass. Materials for one pair of earrings or pendant will be provided, and extra silver can be purchased on the day. Don't miss out on the chance to unleash your inner designer and learn from an expert.
Turtle Cove Beach Resort is hosting Still Here Still Queer 30th Birthday celebrations. The event will feature MCs, live entertainment by Dolly Diamond and Jack Vidgen, and an array of performances including drag shows, DJ sets, fire shows, stilt walkers, and more. This promises to be an unforgettable celebration with the main event today.
Due to popular demand, Chocolate Starfish's acclaimed classic album series featuring Bat Out of Hell returns to CPAC. The exhilarating show features the band performing the entire album followed by their own hits, putting their own slant on each song with their trademark intensity and revelry. With their signature flair and theatrics, Chocolate Starfish promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that goes beyond a mere tribute.
Saturday 22 April
Cairns Drum & Bass HQ is returning to its roots for a bigger and better show at Bar 94. The event will feature Stookey, Neptun3, 50 Kal, and No Keys. Entry is $10 at the door.
Flame.Arts proudly presents Local & Vocal, Cairns' original youth music concert! This free live music event will feature 9 local music acts over two stages, and performances by Street Elements break dancers. Local & Vocal is the perfect place to see the brightest emerging musical talent from across Cairns and surrounding regions. Grab your mates, don your band t-shirts, and support your favourite local bands and music artists on the stage.
Find your new furry family member or enjoy some puppy snuggles and head to Petbarn Westcourt for Adoption Day and Sausage Sizzle.
Sunday 23 April
Get ready for an hour of non-stop laughs with three-time nominee for best show at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Damien Power at Three Wolves. Damien is a renowned Australian comedian who has appeared on several TV shows and has been praised for his sharp wit and hilarious commentary on modern life.
Wine Fiend returns to Caffiend, with a fusion of French and Filipino cuisine by guest chef Mark Davies, perfectly paired with six specialty wines. The evening starts with a Negroni on arrival, promising a fun night ahead and for some, the perfect continuation to a long weekend.
