HMAS Cairns was officially commissioned as a base in February 1974. This followed decades of regular Navy visits to the port of Cairns.
Located in Draper Street in Portsmith, the base is home to 5 naval vessels. It is supported by 900 Navy and civilian personnel.
HMAS Cairns provides maintenance, logistic and administrative support for Cairns based units and ships. The base is home to the Maritime Geospatial Warfare Unit – North, which gives support and services to Defence activities. HMAS Cairns also provides refit and training support for neighbouring Pacific Island nations.
The region is popular for adventurous activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, bungee jumping, white water rafting and skydiving.