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 exploring what a gender equal world might look like, sharing donuts with the Yindiji women and weaving whilst yarning with some of the elders from Yarrabah, to hearing from a range of young people, women and men from the range of multicultural communities across the region, the business and arts communities and a whole range of wonderful women who were kind enough to share 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 and free WOW Marketplace, dedicated Healing Space and community concerts, followed by the hilarious WOW Comedy Gala!