Catalina Flying Boat Memorial Cairns, Cairns

The Catalina Flying Boat Memorial in Cairns stands as a significant and poignant tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the airmen who served in the Catalina Squadrons during World War Two. This memorial honors the 320 airmen who did not return from their missions in the South West Pacific campaigns. The monument was further enhanced in 1993 with additional plaques, enriching its historical significance.

The Catalina, designed in the 1930s as a long-range reconnaissance flying boat, was a versatile aircraft employed by the Royal Australian Air Force (R.A.A.F.) during World War Two. These aircraft were used for reconnaissance, rescue operations, and bombing missions against Japanese forces. Notably, the Catalinas recorded the highest loss rate among R.A.A.F. aircraft in the south-west Pacific area, underlining the perilous nature of their operations. Cairns played a pivotal role as the most important Catalina base in Australia during the war, with missions extending as far north as China.

The memorial is not just a marker of history but a spectacular monument located on the seafront at Cairns. It was a collaborative effort by Cairns' citizens and former Catalina Squadron members across Australia, resulting in one of the country's most impressive memorials. This project, part of Cairns' Centenary year activities, received full support from the R.A.A.F. and the wider community.