Our History
Providing Quality Christian Education Since 1950
Cairns Adventist College is an independent Christian school and a proud member of the global Seventh-day Adventist education system. Established in 1950 as a primary school, CAC holds the distinction of being the oldest Christian school in the Cairns region.
Originally operating from two smaller sites within Cairns, the College relocated to its current home in Gordonvale, just 20 minutes south of Cairns. Nestled on a peaceful 26-acre campus, surrounded by mountains and cane fields, the site offers an inspiring learning environment with ample room for future development. Construction began shortly after the move, and the new campus officially opened on October 27, 2014.
For decades, Cairns Adventist College has provided high-quality, values-based education to students from a diverse range of backgrounds and faiths. Our broad catchment area extends from Redlynch in the north, Babinda in the south, and Yarrabah in the east. To support families across the region, we operate a fleet of three school buses, offering reliable door-to-door transport services.
We are now excited to announce the long-awaited expansion of our school. High school is coming to Cairns Adventist College, with Year 7 set to launch in 2026 and a full progression to Year 12 by 2031. This milestone reflects our continued commitment to meeting the needs of our growing school community and providing a complete educational journey grounded in Christian values.
Cairns Adventist College is recognised by both the Queensland Government and the Seventh-day Adventist Education System. Certificates of Registration and Accreditation are proudly displayed in our Administration Reception area.
Register Your Interest
We invite families to be part of this exciting new chapter. To learn more about our high school plans and what Cairns Adventist College can offer your child, join us at one of our upcoming High School Information Sessions or contact us directly to express your interest.
For session dates and further details, visit our High School Info page or get in touch with our enrolments team today. Be part of the future at Cairns Adventist College—where faith and learning grow together.
Our History
Cairns Adventist College is an Independent School and part of the world wide Seventh-day Adventist Schools system. Our College started as an Adventist Primary school in 1950.
CAC is the oldest Christian school in the Cairns area and it has grown slowly throughout the years. It was originally sited in a small house in the Cairns city. The house was then moved to another property where the school remained for several years until the school moved to Gatton Street to be on the same premises as the Cairns Seventh-day Adventist Church. In 2013, the decision was made to re-locate the school to accommodate growth and suitable land was purchased in Gordonvale. Building commenced on this new land shortly after and the school, on its new site, officially commenced 27th October 2014. CAC, is situated on 26 acres and surrounded by cane fields. It is a very picturesque setting and we have a great view of the ‘Walsh’s Pyramid’.
CAC provides a quality, private Christian education for students from all sectors of our community, catering for families from a wide range of Christian denominations as well as people with no religious affiliation. The student catchment area is wide ranging and extends from Holloways Beach in the North, Babinda in the South and Yarrabah to the East. We run a fleet of 4 buses that provide transport for students with a door to door service.
Cairns Adventist College, Gordonvale is recognized by both the Government of Queensland and the Seventh-day Adventist Education System. Certificates of Registration and Accreditation are on display in our Administration Reception area.
