Community leaders, business representatives and multicultural organisations gathered in Cairns this week for a networking dinner that also featured major announcements tied to Far North Queensland’s growing multicultural sector.
The Community Leaders Dinner and Meet & Greet was co-hosted by GOPIO Cairns Inc. and Centacare FNQ, bringing together representatives from community groups, local organisations and businesses for discussions around inclusion, economic participation and future collaboration in the region.
A presentation by Hari Hara Priya Kannan from The Demographics Group focused on changing population patterns, diversity and demographic trends shaping Far North Queensland. The session prompted discussion around how businesses, service providers and community organisations could respond to the needs of a growing multicultural population.
During the evening, GOPIO Cairns Inc. officially unveiled the poster for the Cairns Indian Festival 2026, confirming the event will be held on Saturday, 12 September 2026 at Fogarty Park.
The festival is expected to feature Indian food, music, dance and cultural performances while attracting visitors from across Far North Queensland and interstate. Organisers said the annual event would continue to promote Indian culture while encouraging wider community participation.
Another announcement during the dinner involved plans for a new Multicultural Business Forum, which will be supported by the Cairns Chamber of Commerce. The forum is expected to strengthen links between multicultural communities, local businesses and industry groups, with a focus on networking, collaboration and economic opportunities.
Organisers acknowledged the contribution of community groups and attendees who participated in the event and thanked Spicy Bite Smithfield for hosting the gathering and providing catering.
The event reflected continuing efforts by multicultural organisations in Far North Queensland to build stronger partnerships between community groups, businesses and civic organisations as the region’s population continues to diversify.
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