admin July 1, 2026
There’s a fresh take on the Irish sport bar as Murphy’s Pub opens in Cairns. Located on Sheridan Street, the venue has been completely reimagined from the ground up, transforming the former Empire site into a high-energy pub designed for locals, sports fans and travellers alike.
Blending the warm hospitality and spirit of a classic Irish pub with the atmosphere of a modern sports bar, Murphy’s offers big-screen sport, cold pints and classic pub dining with an Irish twist. The pub is positioned as a more intimate alternative to larger tourist-focused venues in the city, catering to locals and visitors seeking a lively and welcoming place to eat, drink and watch the game.
The venue will show everything from NRL and State of Origin to international football, rugby union and major UFC events live and loud. Multiple screens are positioned throughout the pub, alongside a mega feature screen anchoring Murphy’s as a must visit sports destination.
Murphy’s Pub Opens in Cairns
Following an extensive renovation, the site has been fully refreshed inside and out with new signage and custom furnishings. Rich timber finishes, stained-glass detailing, decorative wallpaper and varied seating arrangements create a warm and social setting.
At the centre of the venue sits a classic Irish-style bar complete with Guinness harp taps. Booth seating fitted with individual screens ensures uninterrupted viewing of live sport, while pool table competitions and live Irish music sessions add to the atmosphere. Outdoor seating along the footpath extends the venue’s energy beyond the interior.
Murphy’s new menu features pub classics with Irish influences, designed for easy, casual dining. Guests can expect steaks, chicken parmys and burgers, alongside Irish-inspired dishes such as spice bags, beef and Guinness pies, and classic sambos.
“We’re proud to be opening Murphy’s Pub as a destination for everyone – from local workers and sports lovers to visitors and groups,” says Venue Manager Shaun Aspinall. “The pub has been designed to feel like a true local, full of character and warmth, where Cairns residents can gather and tourists can feel at home. Whether you’re here for the sport, live music or a Guinness with friends, there’s always something happening at Murphy’s Pub.”
Live music will make Murphy’s the place to be in the lead-up to the games, before locals settle in to watch all the action live.
Murphy’s weekly programming ensures there is always a reason to visit:
- Monday: Free pool all day
- Thursday: Trivia Night from 7pm
- Friday: Tradie Club and live music 4pm–7pm
- Saturday: Live music 5pm–8pm and 9pm–12am
- Sunday: Live music 2pm–5pm and free pool all day
- Once per month: Music Bingo, check the website for details
Murphy’s Pub is set to become Cairn’s new go-to meeting point for both locals and travellers. A place to swap stories over a pint, catch the late game, enjoy classic pub fare, and enjoy the familiar warmth of an Irish pub atmosphere.
Murphy’s Pub, 86 Sheridan Street, Cairns
