A popular Cairns sporting event is expected to attract record international competitors this year thanks to one of the region’s newest direct flight services.
The two-day Fiji Airways Cairns 7s Rugby Tournament on November 7 and 8 will host 36 teams from across Queensland, the Pacific, New Zealand and beyond, drawing close to 2,000 visitors to the region.
The annual event is an initiative of the Fiji Community Association FNQ (FCAFNQ), with Fiji Airways and Cairns Airport joining as major sponsors in 2025.
Ili Cava, President of FCAFNQ, said previous tournaments had attracted competitors from Fiji, Samoa, Cook Islands, New Zealand, Niue, Papua New Guinea, Tuvalu, Tonga and Vanuatu.
“We expect to welcome more participants and supporters than ever in 2025. It has never been easier or more affordable for players and their fans to attend the Cairns 7s Rugby Tournament,” he said.
“Previously, competitors had to fly south to Brisbane or Sydney and then back up to Cairns, which is an expensive and tiring journey. Now, not only is Cairns now just four hours away, but Fiji Airways is generously offering discounted fares and group booking options for teams and supporters taking part in the tournament. The flow-on benefits are going to be significant, both for the event and wider community.”
Mr Cava said the two-day tournament was far more than just a rugby competition.
“Expect fast-paced rugby action, tropical vibes, and a festival atmosphere celebrating sport, culture, and community. It’s an opportunity to showcase the spirit of Far North Queensland,” he said.
A total of 24 men’s and 12 women’s team will compete for a $40,000 prize pool during the event, to be held at the newly redeveloped Stan Williams Park in Manunda.
Cairns Airport Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said the tournament would bring a boost to visitation during the region’s typical shoulder season.
“We expect many competitors and supporters to extend their stay in Tropical North Queensland after the tournament, which is taking place on a Friday and Saturday. It’s an ideal opportunity to stay, play and explore, or visit loved ones based in Cairns,” he said.
“Cairns Airport is proud to support the Fiji Airways Cairns 7s Rugby Tournament. This event not only attracts elite athletes and passionate fans, but also demonstrates the vibrancy and diversity of our region.”
Fiji Airways’ year-round service direct from Nadi, Fiji, operates three times per week and will inject 53,000 seats into the market each year, generating an estimated $62 million boost to the Cairns economy over the first three years.
The service also brings Tropical North Queensland closer to the Unites States than ever before, with destinations such as Los Angeles and San Francisco now just 16 hours away, eliminating the need for additional stops in other Australian ports.
Team registrations are now open for the Fiji Airways Cairns 7s Rugby Tournament, to be held 7-8 November 2025. Email cairns7s@fcafnq.com to register and to enquire about Fiji Airways’ group fares and team travel packages. Follow updates via social media @Fiji Community Association FNQ and @Cairns7sOfficial.