Your Gateway to Reef & Rainforest
The Ladbrokes Cairns Super Carnival isn’t just a race meeting — it’s the perfect excuse to explore one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. Come for the races. Stay for the adventure.
Cairns Jockey Club sits at the gateway to two UNESCO World Heritage wonders — the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. We encourage every visitor to make the most of the region. We recommend staying 4+ nights so you can enjoy the races and everything Tropical North Queensland has to offer.
A DESTINATION LIKE NO OTHER
Race Day & Beyond: The Cairns Advantage
No other race carnival in Australia puts you within reach of quite so much. From Ladbrokes Cannon Park, you’re a short drive from the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, a short boat ride from coral gardens teeming with marine life, and surrounded by the warmth and colour of Tropical North Queensland.
The Cairns Jockey Club is proud to be more than a racing venue — we’re your base camp for an unforgettable Australian adventure. Whether you’re flying in from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or beyond, plan ahead and give yourself the full experience.
We recommend 4+ nights in Cairns. Combine world-class racing with a reef cruise, a Daintree drive, or a Skyrail journey through the rainforest canopy. Your trip to the races can be so much more.
THINGS TO SEE & DO NEARBY
The Region is Your Playground
From the Coral Sea to the rainforest canopy, the world around Cairns rewards the curious traveller. Here are just a few reasons to extend your stay.
Great Barrier Reef — 30 minutes from Cairns
Snorkel or dive the world’s largest coral ecosystem. Day cruises depart daily from Cairns Marina to the Outer Reef and Green Island — an unmissable experience that simply isn’t available from any other race carnival in Australia.
Daintree Rainforest — 1.5 hours north
Walk through the world’s oldest tropical rainforest — older than the Amazon. Drive north to where the reef meets the rainforest at Cape Tribulation, one of the most iconic landscapes on earth.
Skyrail & Kuranda — 15 minutes from Cairns
Glide over the rainforest canopy on the newly upgraded Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, then explore the charming village of Kuranda nestled in the mountains. A perfect half-day adventure.
Cairns Esplanade — City centre
Stroll, swim, and soak up the famous Cairns foreshore. The lagoon, night markets, and waterfront dining strip make the Esplanade the beating heart of the city.
Atherton Tablelands — 1 hour from Cairns
Discover crater lakes, waterfalls, and lush farmland in the cool green highlands — a world away from the tropical coast, yet just an hour’s drive from Cairns.
Port Douglas — 1 hour north
Discover the laid-back charm of Port Douglas, Four Mile Beach, and award-winning resorts. A favourite escape for those who know Tropical North Queensland, and a perfect add-on to your carnival visit.
PLEASE NOTE: Travel times are dependent on your travel partner choice
SAMPLE ITINERARY
How to Spend 4+ Nights in Cairns
Make the most of your trip to the Ladbrokes Cairns Super Carnival. Here’s a suggested itinerary — combine spectacular racing with some of the world’s best natural experiences.
Day 1 — Arrive & Explore Cairns
Check in, wander the Esplanade, and enjoy dinner on the waterfront. Soak up the tropical energy of the city.
Day 2 — Reef Cruise Day
Depart Cairns Marina for a full-day adventure on the Great Barrier Reef — snorkelling, diving, or a glass-bottom boat experience.
Day 3 — It’s Race Day!
Head to Ladbrokes Cannon Park for a spectacular day of racing at the Ladbrokes Cairns Super Carnival.
Day 4 — Daintree & Cape Tribulation
Drive north through Port Douglas to the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation — where the reef meets the rainforest.
Day 5+ — Stay Longer
Add more race days, Skyrail, the Atherton Tablelands, or simply relax by the pool. The more time you give Tropical North Queensland, the more it gives back.
Ready to Plan Your Tropical Getaway?
Tourism Tropical North Queensland is your go-to resource for accommodation, tour packages, and everything to see and do in the region. Discounts are available to visitors to help you enjoy our beautiful region with deals on accommodation, tours, restaurants and more. Don’t miss their latest deals.
See What Is On In FNQ
You always hear a lot about Tropical North Queensland’s golden beaches, stunning landscapes and friendly locals, but did you know it also hosts some of the country’s most engaging events? Why not plan your trip around one of these world-class festivals to truly experience the best the region has to offer.
