Tanks Arts Centre is a great place to visit during a stay in Cairns.  Located in the leafy surrounds of the Cairns Botanic Gardens precinct, just 4km from the Cairns CBD, Tanks is an interested, contemporary arts facility.  The arts centre itself is housed in three World War II oil storage tanks (which is where the name comes from), that have been converted into art and performance spaces.  Heritage listed, the tanks are a visual and symbolic reminder of Cairns' active involvement in World War II.  The fact that the site has been reinvented for creative purposes is symbolic and a lovely way to energise and engage the senses.

Tank 4 is usually the only one open during a day visit.  This tank is the centre's art gallery and it presents a wide variety of local exhibitions, ranging from student works to pieces by some of the region's emerging and established artists.  Entry is always free and it's a great way to get an insight into cultural Cairns. 

Tank 5 is used as a performance space, usually to present live music at night.  There is annual Jazz Up North series showcased in Tank 5, as well as an ever-changing array of local, national and internation acts ranging from the likes of Toni Childs to Angus and Julia Stone, Lior, Tim Finn, Katie Noonan and Clare Bowditch, to name just a few.  All events are promoted on their website www.tanksartscentre.com and sold through Ticketlink.  Lighting is by candles and the mood is really magical, so check out what is on during your stay.

Tanks also hosts monthly Market Days from April to November.  Held on the last Sunday of these months, the markets are a showcase of local art, craft, merchandise and clothes.  They have a vibrant atmosphere, entry is free and there is always coffee and food available for sale.  Local musicians are usually on site for entertainment and the Tank 4 art gallery is usually open.  This is a lovely way to spend a Sunday morning.

Tanks Arts Centre is adjacent to the Cairns Botanic Gardens, so once you have looked around this truly unique contemporary arts facility, you can wander across the road to explore the tropical gardens and enjoy a coffee or lunch at the cafe. 

HOT TIP: If you are visiting Cairns in August, make sure you check out the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF).  An amazing showcase of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art and culture, usually held at Tanks Arts Centre and venues around town.

There is a Visitor Information Centre planned to be built in late 2010 / early 2011 and this will be a great addition to the site. 

If its day trips in Cairns you are looking for then go trekking to Behana Gorge - it's just beautiful. Mossman Gorge is beautiful but busy with lots of tourist buses.