Health Workforce Queensland Family Program
Health Workforce Queensland will deliver another fantastic Family Program at RDAQ2026, designed especially for the spouses, partners, and children of our rural medical practitioners.
The HWQ Family Program will provide a wonderful opportunity for partners and children to connect with others who understand the unique joys and demands of rural life, while enjoying the spectacular tropical setting of Gimuy | Cairns.
From 25 – 27 June 2026, we have curated an exciting program that balances social connection with adventure and relaxation.
Whether you are joining us for networking events, exploring the stunning Green Island, or enjoying quality time while your children are engaged in supervised activities, there is something for everyone.
Please view the terms and conditions to check your eligibility for the program.
Thursday 25 June 2026
Family event includes children
16:15 – 16:30
Registration
16:30 – 20:30
Children’s activity & dinner
Room: Bluewater 1 & 2
*Inc. afternoon tea, games, activities & dinner
*Adjunct care provided
Spouse/partner only activities
16:15 – 19:00
Meet & greet mixer
Room: Coco’s Kitchen + Bar
17:00 – 19:00
Conference opening address
*Spouses can leave mixer to attend opening address if they wish
19:00 – 21:00
Welcome reception
Friday 26 June 2026
Family day out – Green Island
8:00
Group to meet at Reef Fleet Terminal
8:30 – 9:20
Ferry to Green Island
9:20 – 14:15
Green Island (ticket is inclusive of snorkel hire or glass bottom boat tour, Marine Biologist Reef Talk & Island Walk and morning tea)
14:30 – 15:20
Ferry to Cairns
*Supervision is NOT provided for this activity. Children must be accompanied by a guardian AT ALL TIMES
18:00 – 21:00
Friday night social
Venue: Cairns Showgrounds
Theme: Saddle up Soirée
*Supervision is NOT provided for this activity. Children must be accompanied by a guardian AT ALL TIMES
Saturday 27 June 2026
Family event includes children
18:00 – 23:30
Children’s dinner, activities & movie night
Room: Bluewater 1 & 2
*Adjunct care provided
Spouse/partner only activities
18:30
David Horn Memorial Gala Ball & RDAQ Awards
Please note: Family program is subject to change
See below self guided Saturday activities.
| Registration fees | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Family program with spouse | $405 | ||
| Family program with spouse and children | $450 | ||
| Option add on | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Additional adult add on | + $110 | ||
Please note that the Additional Adult add on may only be purchased in conjunction with one of the family program registrations listed above. This add-on includes one (1) additional adult ticket to the Friday Night Social and one (1) additional adult ticket to the Meet & Greet Mixer.
Should you have any questions, please contact the Event Manager via email: hwqevents@healthworkforce.com.au or phone: 07 3105 7800.
HWQ Family Program – Saturday Activities
Explore Cairns and the hinterland at your own pace! The following experiences are perfect for families to enjoy individually or by linking up with others. Please note that all bookings and ticket purchases must be arranged directly by each family.
Visit Cairns Aquarium
Discover the wonders of Tropical North Queensland’s marine life with an engaging, all-ages attraction.
Why families love it:
- Tickets provide all-day admission, so you can explore whenever it suits your schedule.
- Convenient city-centre location, within walking distance of Pullman Cairns International and many nearby accommodation options.
Explore Kuranda & Rainforestation Park
Looking for a rainforest adventure? A variety of packages are available through Cairns Information & Tourism Centre, making it easy to plan a memorable day.
Popular options include:
- Grand Kuranda Experience – a seamless way to see the region’s highlights.
- Skyrail Rainforest Cableway & Kuranda Scenic Railway – travel above the rainforest canopy and return via one of Australia’s most scenic rail journeys.
Great memories are made together! Consider joining up with other families to share the adventures above!
Relax at Vie Spa Cairns
Treat yourself to some well-deserved downtime.
- Conveniently located within the Pullman Cairns International
- Seasonal specials are offered regularly
- Please book directly with the spa online to secure your preferred time
Reminder: These activities are flexible suggestions for your Saturday. Feel free to plan what best suits your family — whether that means heading out together or meeting up with others along the way!