Rusty's Markets

Rusty's Markets is a large open-air market in central Cairns, Queensland, located on Grafton Street between Spence and Shields Streets. Established in 1975, it operates three days a week with around 180 stalls. Known for tropical produce, local crafts and street food, it is a long-standing community trading hub. The market draws locals and visitors for fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers and multicultural food offerings in a covered, bustling setting.

Visitors can expect a bustling, semi-covered market with rows of stalls under shade structures in the Cairns CBD. The market offers extensive displays of tropical fruits, vegetables, flowers, herbs, and local produce alongside food stalls serving multicultural street food, juices and coffee, plus stalls selling clothing, crafts and souvenirs. Aisles are paved and open to explore on foot, with a lively, crowded atmosphere especially on Saturday mornings.

Established in 1975 by Emrys 'Rusty' Rees as Rusty's Bazaar, the market began as a small weekend bazaar and grew into one of Far North Queensland's largest and longest-running markets, becoming a central trading place for local growers and small businesses in Cairns.

A multicultural community hub reflecting Far North Queensland's tropical agriculture and diverse cultural influences, known for its role in supporting local farmers, growers and food producers and as a social gathering place for residents and visitors.