Tropic Weekender: Our guide to the best events and things to do in Cairns
From workshops, concerts, and tournaments, there's a lot to look forward to in Cairns this week.
There's a food photography and videography workshop sponsored by Sony, a pop-up fashion event, and plenty of comedic options with Julia Wilson at Dunwoody's and Jimmy Carr at CPAC.
There's also a bird photography workshop, another edition of Ecstatic Dance Cairns, and we have the Barrier Reef Congress bridge tournament and the North Queensland Underwater Hockey Titles in town. Plus, with all the anticipation of late, Caravãna Sun are finally in town.
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 26 April
The first exhibition for UMI Arts of the year, You & Me features new artworks from 14 First Nations artists, both emerging and established, from Cairns, Yarrabah, and the Northern Peninsula Area. The exhibition showcases 30 pieces across a range of styles and mediums, including painting on canvas, prints on paper, ceramic, weaving, and multimedia sculptures. Only running for another week until 5 May, visitors have the opportunity to make purchases and support local creators.
Maurice & Craig Turnbull, Sony Scene Advocates, are hosting a Food Photography and Videography Workshop. This Sony-sponsored event features hire gear for those who need it, but if you already use the Sony system, feel free to bring your own. You'll have the opportunity to take your food photography and videography skills to the next level!
Thursday 27 April
St. Monica's and St. Augustine's Colleges, along with St. Andrew's Catholic College and guest choir Holy Cross School, are presenting a performance of Carl Orff's Carmina Burana. This 20th-century musical composition is set to 13th-century secular texts and divided into three sections: Springtime, In the Tavern, and the Court of Love. The performance features excerpts from the celebrated work, with a massed choir and orchestra.
Dunwoody's is hosting a Comedy Night with Julia Wilson, the toughest woman in comedy. With her unique sense of humour and penchant for danger, Julia tours the world and shares her stories of being bitten by lions, stalked by hippos, and accosted by armed convicts. This convent school girl turned bouncer and accountant will have you in stitches with her hilarious and unforgettable anecdotes.
Arte by Crystalbrook and Alliance of Kin are hosting a pop-up Sip and Shop. The event will offer an evening of fashion, friendship, wine, and music with a live performance by Greta Stanley. The event will showcase a collection of Alliance of Kin, and guests will have the opportunity to purchase individual pieces.
Join a Bird Photo Workshop featuring two expert photographers, including Scott Ritchie who has a passion for capturing birds in flight. The workshop includes an indoor sessions and is a great opportunity to learn more about bird photography.
Friday 28 April
Ecstatic Dance Cairns returns to dance freely and intuitively, with no restrictions or inhibitions. There's no need for experience, shoes, phones, or alcohol. The event aims to create a space where people can be themselves without judgment and immerse themselves in the community and music.
World-renowned magician and entertainer is back with a new live show, Cosentino Decennium. It's a must-see greatest hits production featuring death-defying escapes, mind-boggling illusions, and cutting-edge magic. With his trademark blend of dance and humour, Cosentino takes you on a journey that captivates audiences until the last mind-bending moment.
The Australian Bridge Federation is hosting the Barrier Reef Congress tournament at the Cairns Colonial Club. This event is a great opportunity for bridge enthusiasts to gather and compete against each other in a friendly and competitive environment.
The Queensland Foster and Kinship Care Conference in on for Foster and Kinship Carers in Queensland. The theme this year is Communication, Collaboration, and Relationships, focusing on the need for carers, government, and non-government staff to work together and form lasting positive relationships for the benefit of children and young people.
Saturday 29 April
Renowned for their explosive live performances, Caravãna Sun returns to the Tanks. Their sound demands to be heard live, and they've become one of the world's finest live draws. Their music ranges from sun-drenched reggae to sweeping synth indie groove, guaranteed to get you dancing and feeling deeply moved and vibey.
The annual North Queensland Underwater Hockey Titles are in town and on all weekend long. Today, there are competitions over three grades (A, B and Junior/U15). Tomorrow, only two grades will play, Over 15 and Junior, where new and old players will mix up and learn from each other in a friendly social atmosphere.
Australian rock band Kingswood is coming home after a massive 30-date tour throughout Europe this year. The Hometowns tour brings them to Edge Hill Tavern for a night of melodically rich Americana vibes and bluesy rock.
Sunday 30 April
Jimmy Carr, Terribly Funny has extended its run at CPAC with two shows today and Monday. His show includes jokes about all sorts of terrible things that may have affected you or your loved ones, but they're just jokes and not the terrible things themselves. If you're ready for a night of unapologetic humour, then consider buying a ticket - you've been warned!
