Thousands packed the Cairns Convention Centre for a public memorial service for eight children killed last month.

Four pastors led the Christian service to remember the lives of the children - aged between two and 14 years - who were found dead in a Manoora home.

Among those gathered were Prime Minister Tony Abbott, Queensland premier Campbell Newman and Cairns mayor Bob Manning.

The children will be laid to rest together in the city's Martyn Street cemetery.