Abstract: A cooling apparatus (1) comprises a base (3) for supporting the apparatus on the ground, a column (5) extending upwardly from the base to a height greater than the average height of a sitting person, cooling means (27) located at the top of the column (5) and supported thereby for cooling the adjacent air and fan means (29) for directing the cooled air laterally and preferably downwards into the area surrounding the column. The apparatus is both freestanding and self contained. Preferably, the compressor of a standard refrigeration system is located in the base, and the evaporator and condenser units are located in an upper section of the apparatus, with the plumbing and electrical wiring connections located in the column.