Indigenous culture in Cairns

Cairns is home to many First Peoples' languages, stories, and cultures. Statistics from the 2021 Australian Census indicate that 4.3% of Cairns residents identify as Torres Strait Islander, and 7.1% of residents identify as Aboriginal Australian.

Traditional owners of the Cairns region include the Djabugay; Yirriganydji; Bulwai, Gimuy Walubara Yidinji; Bundabarra and Wadjanbarra Yidinji; Mandingalbay Yidinji; Gunggandji; Dulabed and Malanbara Yidinji; Wanyurr Majay; Mamu and Ngadjonjii peoples.

The Traditional Owners from the Djabugay and Yidinji peoples encourage newcomers to Cairns to learn the stories of the past when they come to Cairns for a brighter future.

Cairns is always a great place to be.. to live, and enjoy. The environment that we have, with the lovely mangroves, wetlands and some our great river catchments means there are a lot of places to swim, fish, picnic areas, and enjoy the outdoors. On behalf of our community here of the Djabugay language group , I would just like to say, we wish you be in good spirits while you're here.

Yirriganydji Traditional Owner, Gavin Singleton

Bringing together people and communities

Yidinji man Carl Fourmile, from the land of Gimuy in Far North Queensland, is the artistic director of Minjil; a company providing cultural awareness training and Indigenous ceremonies.

The Yidinji people are one of the largest groups in the Cairns area. In 1898, the Yidinji people and King’s Counsel reached an agreement to mutually stop attacks. Then  Governor, Lord Lamington, provided food and supplies to the Yidinji people while the Commonwealth remained on Traditional land.

When you come to Cairns, think...  we have a whole different perspective on the geographical areas, in our stories and in our culture in our way that we would like to share with you. So come, be a part of everything and know the country.

Yidinji Traditional Owner, Carl Fourmile