Cairns City Council and City Library, Cairns

Originally constructed as the town hall, the Cairns City Council Chambers has witnessed the evolution of the city's administrative landscape and now serves a new purpose as the Cairns City Library.

The Cairns Municipal Council Chambers, a timber structure, initially graced the site, and in 1886, the council sought to expand its public presence by applying for a public market reserve adjacent to the municipal reserve along Lake Street. As Cairns continued to grow, so too did its municipal identity. The Cairns Municipal Council transitioned into the Cairns Town Council on March 31, 1903, and subsequently became the Cairns City Council on October 13, 1923. In 1926, the city proudly celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking a milestone in its history.

The Cairns City Council, constructed from 1929 to 1930, stands as a substantial reinforced concrete structure nestled on a prominent corner site surrounded by lush parkland. The building's architectural design, attributed to Hill & Taylor, radiates a sense of grandeur, with the symmetrical main entrance facing Abbott Street to the northeast.

A striking forecourt area greets visitors as they approach the building, adorned with a stylized pronaos—an architectural feature consisting of eight Ionic columns in antis. Each column is exquisitely fluted at the base, and the pilasters at either end showcase intricate stylized detailing, crowned by a coat of arms. The Cairns City Council Chambers' serene environment is further enhanced by the extensive grounds surrounding it, featuring mature trees and delightful flower beds.

Today, this iconic building has found a new purpose as the Cairns City Library—a repository of knowledge and a haven for learning. While its role may have evolved, the historical significance and cultural heritage it carries remain steadfast.

As a testament to its enduring importance, the Cairns City Council and City Library were inscribed on the Queensland Heritage Register on October 5, 1998.