Cairns Crocodiles, Asia-Pacific’s greatest festival of creativity, is thrilled to announce that Pinterest, which has long been recognised as a vibrant hub of creativity, will once again be returning as the event’s headline presenting partner. The partnership, now secured for the next three years, underscores Pinterest’s ongoing commitment to supporting and championing creativity across the region.
The 2026 festival, taking place from Tuesday 12 to Thursday 14 May at the Cairns Convention Centre, promises three days of world-class keynotes, panels, masterclasses and immersive experiences. With Pinterest on board, attendees can look forward to a program packed with innovative insights, thought-provoking discussions and fresh approaches to creativity in media, marketing and beyond.
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“We’re truly excited to return as headline partner of Cairns Crocodiles in 2026,” said Melinda Petrunoff, managing director of Pinterest Australia & New Zealand.
“Each year, this event stands out for its atmosphere of discovery and creative possibility. At Pinterest, we believe inspiration thrives when people come together to share bold ideas and turn them into action.
“Cairns Crocodiles isn’t just about celebrating creativity, it’s about creating momentum and making ideas real. We’re looking forward to seeing what this remarkable community will discover, create and build together in 2026.”
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Global visual search and discovery platform Pinterest has become famed for its special guest appearances on Day One, having previously welcomed stars such as beauty mogul Zoë Foster Blake, Aussie sporting legend Ash Barty, Olympian Ariarne Titmus and Australian body positivity advocate and author Taryn Brumfitt
Pinterest’s global VP of creative, Xanthe Wells, also led a packed out keynote room on day two, during her Cool Is Not a KPI. Winning with Gen Z session. US-based Wells discussed how creative leaders must reassess the way they lead teams as Gen Z enters the workforce in greater numbers and becomes an increasingly important consumer demographic.3
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The first night’s official Pinterest Opening Party has also become the stuff of legend, held at unique, story-rich locations and featuring stellar activations and live music — from King Stingray to last year’s Ministry of Sound (below).
In addition, Pinterest’s presence and activations in the Cairns Crocodiles partner pavilion, have also earned their own notoriety, having offered custom merchandise, colour consultations, styling sessions and for those willing, the famous Pinterest Tattoo Parlour.
Erin Green, Cairns Crocodiles GM, echoed Petrunoff’s sentiment, adding that Pinterest has been an incredible partner for Cairns Crocodiles, and the whole team is delighted to continue this collaboration.
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“This multi-year commitment allows us to go bigger with content, speakers and impact across APAC,” Green said.
“And with Pinterest at the heart of the partnership, guests don’t just attend the festival — they step into a world of creativity and discovery that makes the experience unlike anything else.”
The 2026 event will also see News Australia returning as a Platinum Partner, supporting the Masterclasses as well as the Hemingway’s Brewery content track.
With submissions now open for Topics in the Tropics, Cairns Crocodiles invites speakers, brands and innovators to pitch their ideas HERE and secure their place in what promises to be the region’s must-attend creative event.
In case you missed it, Pinterest has joined forces with youth mental health organisation batyr to launch a creative challenge for emerging talent. The initiative invites emerging creatives to showcase their talents, build their portfolios and come together to craft an impactful campaign for positive change. See full story HERE.




