Social Program - 2025 Developing Northern Australia Conference

The 2025 Developing Northern Australia Conference isn’t just about thought-provoking discussions and innovative ideas—it’s also about building connections and experiencing the vibrant culture of the North. Our carefully curated social program offers a perfect balance of networking, relaxation, and local experiences, ensuring you leave with not just new insights, but also new friendships.

From our Welcome Networking Event to the Conference Dinner, and unique regional experiences, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to engage with fellow delegates, expand your professional network, and immerse yourself in the spirit of Northern Australia. Whether you’re sharing ideas over drinks, enjoying local cuisine, or exploring the beauty of the region, this program is designed to make your conference experience truly unforgettable.

Join us as we connect, celebrate, and discover everything Northern Australia has to offer!

Welcome Networking Event

Kick off the conference in style on the first night, relaxing with peers, colleagues, and friends at the stunning Hemingway's Brewery Cairns Wharf, a heritage-listed venue just a 5-minute stroll away at the Cruise Liner Terminal. Enjoy breathtaking waterside views of Trinity Inlet as you unwind in this relaxed setting.

On arrival, you'll be welcomed with a drink and can indulge in delicious grazing boards featuring local produce. Plus, you can order from the restaurant’s dinner and drinks menu for a truly memorable evening.

Location: Hemingway's Brewery Cairns Wharf, 4 Wharf Street, Cairns

Date: Tuesday 22 July 2025 (day one of the conference)

Time: 5:30pm – 7:00pm

Cost: Included in 3-day conference registration. Additional tickets for day registrants and accompanying persons can be purchased for $88.00 (incl GST) per ticket.

Includes: Live Entertainment, Grazing Boards, Hemingways Brewery Craft Beers, Wine and Soft Drinks

Save your spot: Register for this event as you complete your conference registration.

Please note guests will be required to make their own way to the venue, Hemingway’s is a short 5-minute walk from the Cairns Convention Centre.

Conference Dinner at the Tanks Art Centre

We are thrilled to invite you to join us for the Conference Dinner, proudly sponsored by the Northern Australia Universities Alliance (NAUA), at the Tanks Art Centre. Nestled in the stunning lush Cairns Botanic Gardens, this unique venue was originally built as fuel storage tanks during World War II and has since been transformed into a vibrant arts and cultural hub.

Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable experience as Ochre Restaurant serves up mouth-watering dishes throughout the evening. And don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes—there will be plenty of room to dance the night away to the lively tunes of live entertainment.

It promises to be an incredible night filled with excitement, energy, and lasting memories. We can’t wait to see you there!

Location: The Tanks Art Centre, 46 Collins Avenue, Edge Hill
Date: Wednesday 23 July 2025 (day two of the conference)
Time: 5:45pm – 9:30pm
Cost: $249.00 (incl GST)
Includes: Canapes on arrival, 3-course dinner, 3-hour beverage package and live entertainment

Transport Options

Electric Coach Transfers will be available on the evening to transport you to and from the venue, with pickups available from the conference hotels. A full schedule will be provided closer to the conference date.

Should you wish to make your own way to and/or from the venue, we strongly advise you to plan and ensure you have transportation arrangements in place.

Please see below details for taxis and rideshare operators in Cairns or download the applicable apps.

Cairns Taxis

Getting Around Cairns: Ride, Earn, Eat | Uber

1300 Rideshare Cairns