Cairns, QLD
Where the rainforest meets the reef, Cairns offers a stunning natural backdrop for fresh thinking, deep learning, and unforgettable connection. With its world-class Cairns Convention Centre and vibrant tropical energy, it’s the perfect setting for the 2026 ALA Conference to inspire, innovate and reimagine the future of lymphatic care.
Nestled between the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, Cairns offers a uniquely awe-inspiring setting that invites reflection, exploration, and rejuvenation.
Breathtaking Natural Beauty
Vibrant Hospitality Scene
From waterfront dining and bustling night markets to boutique hotels and tropical venues, Cairns delivers a warm, laid-back atmosphere paired with world-class service and cuisine.
A Gateway to Connection and Culture
Home to a rich First Nations heritage and a strong community spirit, Cairns fosters meaningful connection and cultural learning - making it more than a destination, but an experience.
Plan Your Trip
Getting around Tropical North Queensland is a great destination for a self-drive holiday with so many places to see you’ll not want to stay in the one place. You can hire a car at Cairns Airport or at many other major centres.
Rideshare apps Uber, Didi, Ola and 1300 Rideshare are available in Cairns only and are very reliable.
However, if you are travelling to surrounding regions, opt for a taxi. There is a 24/7 service available, just dial 131 008 to book your ride. For a list of taxi service areas visit the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
Translink operates regular public buses in Cairns and surrounding suburbs including the northern beaches and Palm Cove. Please be aware that paper tickets can be bought on the bus and only cash payments are accepted. For information visit Translink for Fares and Zones and the Network Map
Getting to Cairns
Tropical North Queensland is closer than you think – and it’s really easy to get to. Cairns is the main airport hub, with lots of domestic and international flights arriving daily. Cairns airport is located only 10 minutes from Cairns City. You can catch the Spirit of Queensland train from Brisbane to Cairns five days a week and there are regular buses running up and down the coast. Driving is also a great option and car hire is straightforward and easy.
Weather & the seasons The climate is one of the best things about Tropical North Queensland – but the weather can be very different from what you’ll find in other parts of the country, so you’ll need to know what to expect.
The 2026 ALA Conference falls during Autumn, where average daily temperatures range from 21.6ºC / 29.2ºC.
About Cairns
Experience the unparalleled natural beauty of Cairns, where spectacular reefs, ancient rainforests, rich culture, and an alfresco dining scene blend into one.
Whether it’s snorkelling through coral gardens, flying over the infinite blues or sailing to tropical islands, there’s an adventure reserved for you on the world’s largest living organism, the Great Barrier Reef. Breathe in the salt air and explore via boat, snorkel, kayak, helicopter or learn to dive on this world-famous natural wonder. For a longer (and exclusive) experience, spend a night on a moored pontoon and sleep under the stars on the Outer Reef.
Ever explored a 100 million-year-old rainforest? Escape the city and explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics. A place so big in size it makes up 0.12% of Australia, it's both accessible and diverse, from the easy walk to the famous Curtain Tree Fig to the longer hike to cool off in Nandroya Falls.
Choose to cruise above the rainforest canopy on Skyrail, meet unique wildlife at Rainforestation, Kuranda Koala Gardens, or Cairns Aquarium, or visit the new Munro Martin Park and Cairns Performing Arts Precinct in the CBD.
Connect with culture through the local Indigenous people who have lived on the land for over 40,000 years. Take a guided tour, watch a traditional performance and explore new artworks at the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair.
Source: Queensland and Events Tourism.