WOW Australia is heading to Cairns again in 2026 for the city’s 150th birthday to celebrate 150(000+) years of the contribution of women and girls to the city and region, to hear their stories and celebrate changemakers in the community today; bringing a wave of inspiration, connection, and fun!  

This isn't just an event for Cairns; it's an event designed by Cairns! The WOW Australia team have been honoured to spend time with over 200 local women exploring what a gender equal world might look like, generously sharing their time and dreams for the Festival! Together we have co-created a program that reflects the heart and soul of the region, and the stories that Cairns wants to tell! 

With a jam-packed program across 3 days, there is something for everyone, including a Men’s Breakfast, screening of SEEN, opportunities for women in business and a special conversation with WOW Australia Patron and former Governor General of Australia, the Honourable Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO and royal correspondent and journalist, Juliet Rieden. 

We will wrap the program up will the main highlight, our full day Saturday Day Pass Program featuring:  Panel discussions, lots of WOW Bites – inspirational short stories of hope, workshop on a range of subjects, dedicated Healing Space and free WOW Marketplace and community concert, followed by the hilarious WOW Comedy Gala!

WOW Australia acknowledges and pays our respects to the Traditional Custodians of the Cairns region, the Djabugay; Yirrganydji; Buluwai, Gimuy Walubara Yidinji; Mandingalbay Yidinji; Gunggandji; Dulabed and Malanbara Yidinji; Bundabarra and Wadjanbarra Yidinji; Wanyurr Majay; Mamu and NgadjonJii peoples. In welcoming women and girls from First Nations communities across the region, WOW Australia seeks to extend understanding of the unique place and contributions of First Nation women and girls to contemporary life and create a celebration which honours differences and builds connections through shared experiences. We would like to extend a special thank you to the women of the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji peoples on whose traditional lands the Festival will occur.