Nestled between two UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest, the Cairns Convention Centre in Tropical North Queensland, Australia, exemplifies environmental stewardship. By incorporating advanced sustainable practices and cutting-edge technologies, the Centre and the region continually strive to minimise their ecological footprint. This commitment ensures that Cairns is not only a world-class Business Events destination but also respects and preserves the natural environment.
Harnessing passive energy in a sustainable design
Cairns is the jewel in the crown of Australia’s world heritage environmental attractions. Given the location of the Cairns Convention Centre, it is crucial for the Centre to maintain stringent environmental controls. The Centre’s sustainable approach is inspired by a passive design strategy that utilises ambient energy sources instead of purchased energy like electricity or natural gas.
The Centre features a 130-meter-long external screen façade, animated by a sunscreen and optimised through computer modelling to manage solar exposure. The screens are designed to account for the sun’s angles throughout the day and across different seasons. The orientation and frequency of the blades are calculated for maximum performance, changing from south to north to adapt to varying solar exposure.
The Centre’s double-layer pleated plate roof captures seasonal tropical downpours, channelling rainwater into storage tanks with a capacity of approximately 200,000 litres. Solar hot water heaters provide 30-35% of the Centre’s hot water needs, while water flow restrictors and moisture-sensitive irrigation systems further conserve water. Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of the Centre’s operations, featuring high-performance glazing, LED lighting with motion sensors, and energy-efficient fans. The Centre also includes two electric vehicle charging stations and a biophilic design that incorporates a living green façade.
Locally-sourced materials and sustainable food practices
Mezzanine Level of Cairns Convention Centre including the timber mullions and carpets evoking the seagrass and turtle feeding grounds
The Centre complements and enhances its surrounding environment by drawing inspiration from two of the world’s most iconic natural landmarks. The timber for the mullions is sourced from Weipa at the tip of Northern Queensland, using trees reclaimed by the local First Nations community. Chillagoe Marble stone is sourced from quarries in North Queensland, and the carpet is crafted by Australian manufacturer Ontera. The carpet design evokes the seagrass and turtle feeding grounds around Cairns, seamlessly incorporating the local environment into the Centre.
Tropical North Queensland offers an exceptional variety of seafood and produce from local suppliers and farmers. Picture succulent tiger prawns, tropical fruits, and gourmet cheeses from the Atherton Tablelands. These offerings enable delegates to experience the region’s culture through its cuisine. By sourcing products from regional producers, the Centre ensures that all seasonal fruits and vegetables are locally sourced, working directly with farmers from the Tablelands. Their premium, line-caught seafood complies with the Queensland Sustainable Fisheries Strategy. Additionally, 100% of their chicken and 85% of their beef are sourced from Far North Queensland and the wider Queensland region. Beverage packages feature Queensland beer and wine. This approach supports both established and emerging businesses while reducing transport mileage and costs.
Executive chef David Hart with local micro herbs supplier
Gina Samuels, Managing Director of The Production House Events, shared her thoughts on a recent conference: “We were impressed by the Cairns Convention Centre’s commitment to sustainability. They prioritise the use of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, reducing the environmental impact associated with transportation and supporting local producers.”
Innovations in agribusiness
Agribusiness is a major contributor to the regional economy, adding $1bn annually. The Cairns region encompasses 10,000 sqkm of agricultural land, nearly half the area. With abundant fertile land and water supplies, conditions are ideal for a wide variety of crops to thrive.
Cairns is passionate about encouraging innovation and promoting sustainable practices across its industries. A prime example is MSF Sugar, a leading agribusiness company in Queensland with a rich history spanning over 125 years. The company is at the forefront of biotechnology and environmental sustainability, making significant investments in green energy and innovative farming systems. One of MSF Sugar’s notable projects is its $86m green energy power plant, which converts 100% renewable sugarcane fiber, known as bagasse, into 24 megawatts of electricity—enough to power every house in the Tableland region. This initiative not only supports renewable energy but also highlights the potential of sugarcane as a sustainable resource.
Jia, Thitichaya Poontanasombat, chief financial officer, MSF Sugar. Image Source Cairns Regional Council
“We focus on creating value, not just for the sugar mill but also for the grower and the Cairns community,” said Jia Poontanasombat, Chief Financial Officer, MSF Sugar – Mitr Phol Group. “In Far North Queensland we have more than 700 growers, 700 employees and 2,000 suppliers generating over $400m annually. The sugar industry is an important, sustainable way of supporting the local economy.”
Conservation at their core
Conservation is deeply embedded in the region’s identity, playing a vital role in preserving the environment for future generations. This commitment is evident in how Business Events in Cairns can make a positive impact.
One example is the Reforest program, a carbon removal and nature repair program. This initiative allows events at the Centre to offset their carbon footprint in Cairns through local tree planting and revegetation projects. The program supports the endangered Mabi rainforest, home to the Lumholtz tree kangaroo on the Atherton Tablelands. By participating, delegates help restore native ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and combat climate change.
Sharon, the 60-year-old Green Sea Turtle. Image source: Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre
The Cairns Convention Centre has sponsored a 60-year-old Green Sea Turtle named Sharon for two years at the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre (CTRC). Sharon, who was found with severe sunburn and buoyancy issues, has recovered thanks to the dedicated care provided by CTRC. The Centre focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating turtles from the Great Barrier Reef and Cape York Peninsula. Conferences visiting Cairns have the opportunity to volunteer their time at CTRC or sponsor a turtle.
How Cairns works with conferences to achieve their goals
The Centre and regional partners collaborate with conferences to achieve their goals while minimising environmental impact in various ways. The city is compact, with most hotels and attractions within walking distance, encouraging delegates to walk and reduce transport use. Sustainable activities are showcased, local suppliers are prioritised, and eco-friendly conference materials and low-waste designs are promoted. Digital alternatives for signage, programs, and check-in processes are supported, and delegate numbers are requested early to manage food wastage.
Delegates planting trees as part of the Reforest Program. Image source: Business Event Cairns & Great Barrier Reef
Historic venues have been repurposed into unique off-site event spaces, enhancing the region’s sustainability narrative. For example, The Mill, built in 1886 and expanded in 1921, is ten minutes from the city centre and remains the largest timber yard north of Brisbane. The Tanks Art Centre, located within the Cairns Botanic Gardens, is housed in repurposed World War II naval oil storage tanks.
In addition, Tropical North Queensland offers over 190 eco-certified tours, the highest concentration in Australia. These tours include snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, exploring the Daintree Rainforest, and cultural tours with Indigenous communities, all supporting sustainable tourism practices.
Cairns is at the forefront of conservation and sustainability, making it an ideal destination for conferences that prioritise environmental responsibility. And at the heart of this Conference precinct, the Cairns Convention Centre, demonstrates an ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental management. Through innovative design, energy efficiency, and the use of locally sourced materials, the Centre not only minimises its environmental footprint but also enhances the natural beauty of its surroundings.
To discover why the Cairns Convention Centre is the perfect place for your next conference, get in touch with the Business Development Team on +61 7 4042 4200 or email sales@cairnsconvention.com.au
