Cairns Convention Centre will welcome leading scientists and researchers from around the world next year after Cairns secured hosting rights for the 6th World Ecoacoustics Congress.
The international conference will take place Aug. 17-20, 2026, in partnership with James Cook University. Organizers said the event will focus on ecoacoustics, the study of sound and its relationship to ecosystems, biodiversity, and environmental change.
Researchers, scientists, and environmental experts from multiple countries are expected to attend the four-day gathering in Far North Queensland.
Cairns Chosen for Unique Natural Environment
Officials said Cairns offers an ideal setting for the international conference because of its location between the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics of Queensland rainforest region.
The surrounding environment provides direct access to ecosystems often studied by ecoacoustics researchers and conservation scientists.
Because ecoacoustics focuses on environmental sound and biodiversity monitoring, organizers believe Cairns offers valuable real-world research opportunities alongside conference discussions.
Industry leaders say destinations connected to science and environmental research continue attracting more international conferences and educational events.
Ecoacoustics Research Continues Expanding Worldwide
Ecoacoustics has become a growing field within environmental science and conservation research.
Scientists use sound recordings and acoustic monitoring to study wildlife populations, ecosystem health, climate impacts, and biodiversity changes across forests, oceans, and natural habitats.
The technology allows researchers to track environmental conditions without disturbing ecosystems directly.
Because climate and conservation issues continue gaining global attention, ecoacoustics conferences now attract increasing interest from universities, environmental agencies, and research organizations worldwide.
Cairns Convention Centre Expands International Event Portfolio
The announcement marks another major international conference for Cairns Convention Centre.
The venue recently hosted the 20th International Bat Research Conference, welcoming more than 500 delegates from 58 countries.
That event combined scientific presentations with field experiences tied to Cairns’ surrounding biodiversity and rainforest ecosystems.
Officials said conferences connected to environmental science, conservation, and sustainability remain a growing part of the region’s business events sector.
Hope Mitchell Named Event Services Director
The Cairns Convention Centre also announced the promotion of Hope Mitchell to Event Services Director.
Mitchell has spent four years with the venue and will now oversee event delivery and client partnerships across the center’s expanding conference operations.
Venue leaders said her promotion reflects continued growth in live events and international conference business throughout the region.
Catering Program Earns National Recognition
The convention center also received national recognition for its catering operations this year.
Spice Magazine named the venue a winner for Best Convention Centre Catering in its 2026 Hot 100 Hotels and Venues awards.
Officials said the culinary program focuses heavily on seasonal ingredients and locally sourced produce from across Queensland.
Because food and hospitality remain major parts of conference experiences, catering awards continue playing an important role in venue marketing and business event recruitment.
Financial Counselling Australia Conference Draws Hundreds
Last week, the venue also hosted the Financial Counselling Australia Conference, which attracted nearly 900 delegates to Cairns.
The event included keynote speakers, panel discussions, networking sessions, and exhibitions focused on financial counselling and community support services.
Organizers also hosted a gala dinner recognizing leaders within the sector.
Business Events Continue Driving Regional Tourism
Conference tourism continues generating major economic activity throughout Cairns and the surrounding tourism region.
Hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, and tourism operators often benefit from large international events hosted at the convention center.
Industry experts say destinations offering strong environmental, cultural, and outdoor experiences remain highly competitive within the global meetings and conventions market.
As Cairns continues attracting science, sustainability, and research-focused conferences, officials expect the city’s international events profile to keep growing.
Venue Information
Cairns Convention Centre
📍 Cairns, Queensland, Australia
🌐 https://www.cairnsconvention.com.au
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