- Times: 10am to 12pm
- Location: River Monsters Amphitheatre (Ground floor)
- Overview: Explore the formidable freshwater species of Northern Australia, including barramundi, archerfish, and freshwater sawfish.
Cairns Aquarium Events: What’s On During Your Visit
A closer look at Cairns Aquarium’s events
Learn how sawfish hunt, why reef fish glow, and what makes sharks tick—all from marine experts who bring each habitat to life. With daily Cairns Aquarium events unfolding across immersive zones, you’ll discover the region’s wildest creatures in action, not just on display.
River Monsters
Denizens of the Deep
- Times: 10:30am, 12:30pm & 2pm
- Location: Deep Reef Amphitheatre (Level 1)
- Overview: See the mysterious creatures inhabiting the deep reef, such as groupers, moray eels, and other elusive marine life.
Life of Sharks & Rays
- Times: 11am & 1pm
- Location: Oceanarium (Ground Floor)
- Overview: Learn about sharks' and rays' behaviors and adaptations and their crucial roles in marine ecosystems.
Curious & Coloured
- Times: 11:30am, 1:30pm & 2:30pm
- Location: Coral Sea Amphitheatre (Ground Floor)
- Overview: Dive into the vibrant world of reef fish, understanding their unique adaptations and the significance of their vivid colors.
Marine Touch Tank
- Availability: 10am – 3pm
- Location: Marine Touch Pools (Level 1)
- Overview: Engage in a hands-on experience with sea stars, sea cucumbers, and other intertidal species under the guidance of knowledgeable staff.
Daily presentations at Cairns Aquarium
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River Monsters
Times: 10am to 12pm
Location: River Monsters Amphitheatre (Ground Floor)
Denizens of the Deep
Times: 10:30am, 12:30pm & 2pm
Location: Deep Reef Amphitheatre (Level 1)
Life of Sharks & Rays
Times: 11am & 1pm
Location: Oceanarium (Ground Floor)
Curious & Coloured
Times: 11:30am, 1:30pm & 2:30pm
Location: Coral Sea Amphitheatre (Ground floor)
Marine Touch Tank
Availability: 10am – 3pm
Location: Marine Touch Pools (Level 1)
Note:
- Download the Cairns Aquarium Map to find the zone with your favourite talk once you’re in the museum.
- Presentation times are subject to change. For the most up-to-date schedule, please refer to the Cairns Aquarium Daily Presentations page.
What Cairns Aquarium events look like
River monsters in action
Watch freshwater predators like barramundi and sawfish snap into action during feeding time.
Frequently asked questions about Cairns Aquarium events & presentations
Yes! While daily talks run year-round, special events—like school holiday programs, turtle release days, and themed conservation weeks—are added during peak seasons. Check the website or ask at the entry for what’s on during your visit.
Get to the amphitheatre about 5–10 minutes early. Spots can fill up fast, especially for shark and ray talks. Standing room is usually available, but early birds get the best views!
Totally! Cairns Aquarium events are family-friendly and super engaging. From interactive Q&As to feeding time excitement, kids love the hands-on style.
Yes! Presenters love audience interaction. You can ask questions during or after most sessions—they’re more than happy to chat about the animals and habitats.
Absolutely! Just turn off your flash to keep it fish-friendly. Flash photography can stress marine life, especially in darker reef zones.
Presentations are primarily in English, but staff often have multilingual handouts. Some signage also includes translations. If you're visiting with a group, you can inquire about private or translated tours.
