TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLANDRAIGS REUNION 2020

Accessing Townsville North Queensland

Townsville Direct Flight Map Average Direct Flight Times

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Airline Providers Currently Servicing Townsville Airport

Airport Reception

With over 23,000 airline seats weekly, it has never been more convenient to access the Townsville North Queensland region.

Each year Townsville welcomes over 1.6 million passengers via major airlines, with direct flights from Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Sydney, Melbourne and regional Queensland centres. And with new direct paths added, it’s even easier for your guests to get to Townsville.

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MackayMount Isa

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CITY

MAP

PROPERTY NAME DETAILS CONTACT

The Ville Resort–Casino The Ville Resort- Casino offers a variety of hotel accommodation from deluxe rooms to family suites. With a number of superb restaurants on-site and centrally located to The Strand and city.

Sir Leslie Thiess Drive, Townsville Ph: +617 4722 2201 www.the-ville.com.au

Mercure Townsville Family and hotel rooms available. Centrally located with beautiful resort pool and restaurant on site. The Mercure is also walking distance to one of Townsville’s major shopping center’s.

66-194 Woolcock StreetPh: +617 4759 4902www.mercuretownsville.com.au

Mariners North Holiday Apartments Apartment style accommodation in a magical location on The Strand. Beautiful grounds and a short walk to the city.

7 Mariners Drive, The Strand Townsville Ph:+617 47522 0777www.marinersnorth.com.au

Rydges Southbank Townsville Rydges Southbank Townsville is located along one of Townsville Restaurant hubs. The hotel is also walking distance to the City Centre

23 Palmer Street, Townsville Ph. +617 Ph: +617 4726 5265www.rydges.com

City Oasis Inn City Oasis Inn is centrally located in Townsville City with motel style rooms and larger rooms with a kitchenette.

143 Wills St, Townsville City Ph:+617 4771 6048www.cityoasis.com.au

Hotel Grand Chancellor Located in Townsville’s city center, walk to restaurants and bars or dine on-site at the Sugar Shaker restaurant.

334 Flinders Street, Townsville CityPh. +617 3834 4865www.grandchancellorhotels.com

Grand Hotel and Apartments Located on Palmer Street, Grand Hotel and Apartments offer a variety of hotel rooms, one and two bedroom apartments.

8-10 Palmer Street, South TownsvillePh: +617 47532800www.grandhoteltownsville.com.au

Park Regis Anchorage

Quest Townsville on Eyre Close to the Strand and Gregory Street restaurants, Quest Townsville on Eyre offer serviced apartment style hotel rooms.

19-21 Leichhardt Street, North WardPh: +617 4789 7400www.questapartments.com.au

Quest Townsville on Palmer Located in the heart of Townsville’s dinning precinct Quest Townsville offers apartment style hotel rooms.

30-34 Palmer Street, South TownsvillePh: +617 4726 4444www.questtownsville.com.au

Rowes Bay Holiday Park Rowes Bay Holiday Park s located beach front at Rowes Bay - just a short drive to the Strand and City Centre. Caravan and Camping sites are available as well as Cabins and Villas.

46 Heatleys Parade, Belgian Gardens Ph. +617 1800 751 845www.rowesbayholidaypark.com.au

Central Holborn Apartments Located in Townsville’s newly developed Central Precinct, these are new stylish serviced apartments. With several restaurants and cinema’s at your doorstep.

4 Kingsway Place, Townsville CityPh: +617 4724 3378www.vivoproperty.com.au

Central Kensington Apartments Located in Townsville’s newly developed Central Precinct, these are new stylish serviced apartments. With several restaurants and cinema’s at your doorstep.

3 Kingsway Place, Townsville CityPh: +617 47243378www.vivoproperty.com.au

Central Islington Apartments Central Islington Apartments are located only 5 minutes walk from Townsville CBD.

4 Aplin Street, Townsville CityPh: +617 5341 6600www.vivoproperty.com.au

Where to Stay

PROPERTY NAME DETAILS CONTACT

Amaroo on Mandalay Amaroo on Mandalay is located on beautiful Magnetic Island. Conveniently located in Nelly Bay and just a short taxi ride from the terminal. Enjoy the best of both Island and City life during your stay.

Magnetic Island61-79 Mandalay Ave, Nelly BayPh: +617 47785200www.amarooonmandalay.com.au

Peppers Blue on Blue Resort Pepper’s Blue on Blue is conveniently located at Nelly Bay on Magnetic Island. Jump on a Ferry in the city and be on the island in 20min. Peppers is located less than 100m from the terminal on Magnetic Island. Get the best of both world’s! 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments available.

Magnetic Island 123 Sooning Street, Nelly Bay Ph: +617 4758 2414www.peppers.com.au

Grand Mercure Apartments A mere 50 meters from Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal access all the island has to offer while still being only 20min ferry ride from the city.

Magnetic Island146 Sooning Street, Nelly BayPh: +617 4758 2100www.grandmercure.com

Where to Stay

Getting Around

Rental Cars and People MoversYou'll find the Townsville Airport Thrifty desk in the arrivals area, so you can get straight off your plane and pick up your car to hit the road.

Ph: +617 4725 4655www.thrifty.com.au

Detour CoachesDetour Coaches specialise in charters from 16 people to 600. If you're after more than just transport - the team can also assist with tours in Townsville and North Queensland region.

Ph: +617 4728 5311www.detourscoaches.com.au

SeaLink - Magnetic IslandSeaLink operates up to 18 daily services to Magnetic Island and will have you in paradise in only 20 minutes on one of their high-speed catamarans. Their terminal is located walking distance from the City Centre - no need to pre-book your ferry ticket, tickets are available at the terminal or onboard the boast if the terminal is closed.

For Ferry timetables and more information please visit - wwww.sealinkqld.com.au Ph: +617 4726 0800

Magnetic Island FerriesMagnetic Island Ferries run both a car and passenger ferry service. If you are thinking of heading over to Magnetic Island for a few nights, or even a day trip and would like to take your vehicle - check out Magnetic Island Ferries timetable and booking process here -

www.magneticislandferries.com.auPh: +617 4796 9300

Sunbus Sunbus is Townsville's public transport service. For all Townsville bus timetable information please visit their website -

wwww.sunbus.com.au

Townsville TaxisBook a safe, reliable ride with Townsville Taxi's professional drivers. Download their app for quick, convenient bookings.

Ph: 131 008www.tsvtaxi.com.au

WILDLIFE AND NATURE LIFESTYLE

TOWNSVILLE BREWERYSit back enjoying a meal while you watch the beer making process of the local Townsville Bitter.

www.townsvillebrewery.com

CBARThe ocean breezes and views across to Magnetic Island will give you that holiday feeling in no time.

www.cbar.com.au

CITY LANECity Lane is an absolute must visit, offering a bevy of dining options to suit everyone’s tastes.

www.citylane.com.au

MISS SONGSLocated at the Ville Resort - let Miss Songs take you on a journey across the Orient.

www.the-ville.com.au

THE PIEREnjoy locally sourced seafood at a stunning waterfront location.

www.pierrestaurantandbar.com

SHORE HOUSEEnjoy modern Asian Cuisine and watch the world go by from their ocean front deck. www.shorehousetownsvile.com.au

Cannon ParkLocated a short distance from the Riverway precinct and 1300Smiles Stadium – home of the North Queensland Cowboys – Cannon Park offers diners a range of cuisine and a social atmosphere. You can catch a live show at Riverway Arts Centre, see a movie at the cinemas, challenge your friends at tenpin bowling or have a pint at the local Irish pub.

Flinders StreetRevellers looking to keep the party going after dinner should look no further than the inner city. Flinders Street boasts an eclectic mix of restaurants, nightclubs, pubs and cocktail bars. Flinders Street East buzzes with a lively atmosphere with patrons enjoying cocktails, tapas and dancing the night away in the nightclubs.

City LaneThe dining scene in Townsville North Queensland has come alive with Townsville’s first creative laneway precinct. Offering a variety of dining options, City Lane on Flinders Street is a sophisticated, New York inspired precinct complete with street art, funky décor and an atmosphere to match.

Central VillageFor a fun night out, why not catch the latest movie at the cinema followed by dinner at Central Village. This new dining precinct offers a collection of sidewalk cafes and alfresco dining.

JAMExperience Australia’s very best breakfast (Australian Savour Awards) .

www.jamcorner.com.au

BRIDGEWATER Enjoy a meal by award winning chef Matt Merrin or a drink and small bite to eat at Bridge Bar.

www.bridgewaterq.com.au

WILD GOOSE BREWS AND CHEWSLoosen into holiday mode with a range of food, beer and cocktails.

www.wildgoose.net.au

LONGBOARD BAR AND GRILLDine with breathtaking views from Townsville’s award-winning beachfront to Magnetic Island.

www.longboardbarandgrill.com

DINING PRECINCTSPalmer StreetLocated on the city’s south bank, Palmer Street captures the essence of international cuisine and is a prime location to start your day or night out boasting award winning restaurants for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Whether you desire Indian, Italian, French, Mexican, modern Australian or locally caught seafood, this is Townsville’s premier eating strip.

Gregory Street and The StrandThe alfresco dining and proximity to the beach makes Gregory Street and The Strand the perfect stop for a meal. Spoil yourself with a delicious gelato or have a relaxing drink at one of the restaurants or bars found along The Strand. Gregory Street is also home to several boutique shopping outlets and is the perfect spot to enjoy some retail therapy after a bite to eat.

FOOD & DRINK

WILDLIFE AND NATURE LIFESTYLE WILDLIFE AND NATURE

PEPPERS BLUE ON BLUEFine dining meets island lifestyle at Peppers on Magnetic Island, with beautiful views across the marina.

www.peppers.com.au

CELCIUS RESTAURANTEnjoy fresh food in relaxing poolside ambience at Celcius Restaurant and Bar, located at Mercure Townsville.

www.mercuretownsville.com www.rambutantownsville.com.

RAMBUTANDine poolside at Rambutan on Flinders Street, with cocktails, pool parties and delicious meals!

SOUTHBANK GRILLSavour tasty grill selections and imbibe classic cocktails at Southbank Grill at Rydges Southbank Townsville.

www.rydges.com

COWBOYS LEAGUES CLUBSoak up the atmosphere at the Cowboy’s League Club, home of the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys.www.cowboysleagues.com.auwww.brotherstsv.com.au

CIRCA 20Mix amongst the locals at Circa 20, located at the local rugby league Brothers Leagues Club.

HERVEYS RANGE HERITAGE TEA ROOMSEscape the hustle and bustle of city life as you enjoy this quaint cafe shop.

www.heritagetearooms.com.au

FROSTY MANGOHealthy, fresh, home-made food and icecream made with love in North Queensland.

www.frostymango.com.au

CACTUS JACKSAn outing to Cactus Jacks for a Mexican fiesta is guaranteed to be a fun night out that the whole family will enjoy!

www.cactusjacks.com.au

PALM HOUSEChange what you thought you knew about buffet dining. Showcasing the freshest produce North Queensland has to offer with a little bit of flair.

www.the-ville.com.au

LIFESTYLE

FOOD & DRINK

HOOCH AND FELLOWEnjoy a signature cocktail at Hooch and Fellow but get in quick - the menu changes every week!

www.facebook.com/hoochandfellowwww.theherbie.com

HERBERT HOTELWith an extensive Pub Grub menu, It doesn’t get more Australian than the Herbert Hotel.

A TOUCH OF SALTTake in the waterfront views and enjoy one of Townsville's favorite casual fine dinning restaurants.

www.atouchofsalt.com.au

OTTO'S FRESH FOOD MARKETYou will be spoiled for choice at Otto's. Choose from their Deli, Artisian Bakehaus, Pizza Palour or order straight off the menu. www.ottosmarket.com.au

TIDE CAFEA great place to grab coffee, breakfast or lunch, right on The Strand.

www.tidecafe.com.au

QuarterdeckImagine relaxing with a chilled bottle of wine or ice cold beer and tapas delights as you gaze across to magnetic island.www.the-ville.com.au

WILDLIFE AND NATURE LIFESTYLE

THE STRAND

Immerse yourself in the Townsville way of life and discover The Strand, Townsville’s thriving beach foreshore!

CAPE PALLARENDA Walk or mountain bike the shared trails throughout the park to see the World War II structures on the Cape Pallarenda headland and explore the beaches and forested slopes of Many Peak Range.

ROCK WALLABIESThe sociable rock wallabies at Geoffrey Bay are perhaps some of the cutest creatures on Magnetic Island. Grab a bag of wallaby feed from the nearby Arcadia Newsagency.

THE FORTS WALKDon’t miss the remarkable Forts Walk on Magnetic Island: the best vantage point for wildlife (including koalas), spectacular rocky coves and historic military sites.

CASTLE HILLJust metres short of a mountain, Castle Hill is the giant pink granite monolith that stands proud in the centre of Townsville - a perfect place for visitors to orientatethemselves.

JEZZINE BARRACKSDiscover the military and Aboriginal heritage of the Kissing Point headland through artworks, displays and the restoration of the Kissing Point Fort complex.

BOTANIC GARDENSExplore Townsville’s popular botanic gardens including Anderson Gardens, Queens Gardens and The Palmetum.

TOWN COMMON Summer rains transform the Town Common area into an immense wetland, attracting large flocks of waterbirds. For birdwatchers, the park is a paradise with up to 280 bird species recorded here.

FREE LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

TOWNSVILLE

SNORKEL TRAILS Discover amazing fringing coral reefs at Geoffrey and Nelly Bay. Pick up a swim card to learn about the coral and fish you may encounter along the way and walk right of the beach to start exploring!

KOALAS IN THE WILDMagnetic Island is home to North Australia’s largest colony of koalas living in the wild, so keep your eyes peeled for koalas in the trees above.

MAGNETIC ISLAND

Driving Distance from City Centre

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20 MIN FERRY TRANSFER

WILDLIFE AND NATURE

WALLAMAN FALLSYou’ll be amazed when you stand in front of Wallaman Falls, the Southern Hemisphere’s highest permanent single drop waterfall, located in Girringun National Park.

PALUMA NATIONAL PARKExperience the thrill of spotting the rare golden bowerbird and take a step back in time at Paluma village. Enjoy a rainforest walk and breathtaking views from McClellands Lookout.

FREE LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

PALUMA AND HINCHINBROOK

TOWERS HILLImmerse yourself in the history of Charters Towers on Towers Hill. Spot native wildlife and step back in time to learn about the 1871 Gold Rush.

CANE FIRESWitness a magnificent cane fire light up the evening in the Burdekin, one of the few regions in Australia where cane is burnet before harvesting,

STOCK EXCHANGE ARCADEOne of Australia’s first regional stock exchanges, the price of gold was once set in this very Arcade. Today, you can discover cafes, shops, galleries and displays in the historic building.

CHARTERS TOWERS

PUB WITH NO BEEREnjoy a cold one at Lees Hotel Motel, made famous by Slim Dusty’s number one hit song Pub ‘With No Beer’.

TYTO WETLANDSExperience the natural beauty and tranquil environment of TYTO Wetlands, a unique 90-hectare natural wetland. Spot native Australian wildlife along the walkways and lookouts.

LUCINDA JETTYAt 5.76 kilometres long, Lucinda holds the longest service jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, which follows the curved contour of the Earth.

FISHINGFantastic fishing is on offer in the waterways of the Burdekin Delta. Tours are available to catch barramundi, mud crabs, prawns, mangrove jack and more!

JOURAMA FALLSRelax, camp, walk and spot native wildlife amongst the rainforest at Jourama Falls. Enjoy a picnic, hike to lookout platforms and take a dip in the creeks and rockslides.

BURDEKIN

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Pre and Post TouringThe best holidays are the ones that leave you feeling energised and alive. Townsville North Queensland gives you that feeling with a collection of destinations and attractions to spark anyone’s curiosity.

The best place to begin your exploration is Townsville City. Beneath the protective presence of Castle Hill, Townsville City combines federation architecture with modern fine dining like no other Queensland city. Stroll down The Strand and look over the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef, or better understand its beauty with a visit to Reef HQ Aquarium.

If it’s nature you like, don’t miss a walk around Magnetic Island, where you can spot Northern Australia’s largest colony of wild koalas. The remarkable Forts Walk is the best vantage point for wildlife, spectacular rocky coves and historic military sites.

Your history lesson continues with a short drive to iconic Charters Towers. Feel the fervour of the gold rush with a trip to The Miner’s Cottage where you might just strike it lucky when panning for gold. Or just wander the streets of this celebrated Australian town and sample billy tea and damper straight from the camp oven.

A little further south is the Burdekin, the sugar capital of Australia. Sample the legendary Burdekin produce or try your hand at barramundi fishing in the Burdekin River estuaries! Or get even closer to marine life with a scuba dive on the S.S. Yongala shipwreck – one of the top ten dive sites in the world.

The last destinations to explore are the ancient and awe-inspiring rainforests of Townsville North Queensland. Swim in the crystal clear waterholes of Crystal Creek, stare with amazement at Wallaman Falls in the Hinchinbrook region – the largest single-drop waterfall in Australia – or play hide ’n’ seek in the world’s oldest continually living rainforest in Paluma Range National Park.

Townsville North Queensland rewards your curiosity. Wander, ramble, peer and unearth, and you’ll leave with something more precious than gold: the feeling of being alive!

Castle Hill

Just metres short of a mountain, Castle Hill is the giant pink granite monolith that stands proud in the centre of Townsville – serving as the perfect place for visitors to orientate themselves with the city. Take the easy drive to the top for stunning panoramic views of Magnetic Island and Cleveland Bay, Townsville City and suburbs and the Northern Beaches. Challenge yourself and join the 1,000+ locals that run and walk up the Hill every day – if you’re up for it.

The Strand

Townsville’s famous foreshore, The Strand, is the perfect place to relax during your visit. Stretching 2.5km and offering views across Cleveland Bay to Magnetic Island, The Strand is a favourite for locals and visitors alike. BBQ facilities, swimming enclosures, freshwater showers, a waterpark, playgrounds and waterfront dining make this the obvious place to visit.

Townsville CBD

The Townsville CBD is growing its reputation as a centre for food and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy boutique shopping, alfresco dining and Sunday local markets. The CBD is well connected with the Palmer Street dining and accommodation precinct located just a short walk from the central hub of Townsville Bulletin Square over the historic Victoria Bridge. Make the most of the free Wi-Fi in Townsville Bulletin Square and pop in to see the Volunteers at the Visitor Information Centre.

Flinders Street

Those revellers looking to keep the party going after dinner should look no further than the inner city. Flinders Street boasts an eclectic mix of restaurants, nightclubs, pubs and cocktail bars. City Lane is a great place to start your night whether it’s for drinks or dinner. Flinders Street East buzzes with a lively atmosphere with patrons enjoying cocktails, tapas and dancing in the nightclubs until late.

Jezzine Barracks

Located at northern end of The Strand, Jezzine Barracks hold special significance for the people of Townsville. The area has been redeveloped and includes a coastal path with magnificent views of Cleveland Bay and Magnetic Island, with disability access to Kissing Point headland. Interpretive artwork, way points and lookouts also feature and a walkway connects the popular Strand with the far reaching Pallarenda beach front.

Riverway

Two huge swimming lagoons, playgrounds, parklands, a performance and arts centre and a sports stadium, all situated on the banks of the Ross River. The Riverway precinct is perfect for families looking to enjoy the great outdoor lifestyle that North Queensland is famous for.

Reef HQ Aquarium

Reef HQ Aquarium is the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium and the National Education Centre for the Great Barrier Reef. Reef HQ Aquarium provides the most outstanding Great Barrier Reef experience through education, inspiration and entertainment. The Reef HQ Aquarium Turtle Hospital provides a dedicated facility where sick and injured marine turtles are cared for and rehabilitated.

Discover Townsville North Queensland

Mayor Jenny Hill recommends...• Indulge with a gelato on The Strand

• Day trip to Magnetic Island

• Watch one of our national sporting teams in action

• Walk up Castle Hill

• Dive the S.S. Yongala or skydive over The Strand

• Enjoy an exhibition at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery and the Pinnacles Gallery

Billabong Sanctuary

On the outskirts of the city, Billabong Sanctuary is an interactive wildlife park set in 11 hectares of wilderness. Hold a koala, cuddle a wombat, smile at a crocodile or wrap a python around your neck. Animal talks and feedings occur throughout the day – don’t forget your camera.

Museums

Townsville offers a number of museums showcasing the rich history and stories of the region. As well as the award-winning Museum of Tropical Queensland, other museums include the Maritime Museum, the Townsville Military Museum, the Townsville Royal Australian Air Force Museum and the National Heritage Trust Centre.

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Townsville’s premier regional art gallery, offering a dynamic range of local, national and international exhibitions.

Museum of Tropical Queensland

Located in the heart of Townsville city, the Museum of Tropical Queensland

tells the story of the HMS Pandora, the ship sent by British Admiralty to capture the Bounty and her mutinous crew. The Museum also hosts a series of visiting displays and touring exhibitions throughout the year. The kids will love the Enchanted Rainforest display.

Dining, Drinking and Dancing

Whether it’s sipping cocktails overlooking The Strand, dining on trying your luck at Jupiters Townsville Hotel & Casino, fine dining on Palmer Street or partying until late in Flinders Street nightclubs, there is plenty to do after the sun sets.

Palmer Street

Located on the city’s south bank, Palmer Street captures the essence of international cuisine. Palmer Street is a prime location to start your night, or day, boasting award-winning restaurants for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Whether you desire Indian, Asian, Italian, French, Mexican, modern Australian or locally caught seafood, this is Townsville’s premium eating strip.

Gregory Street and The Strand

The alfresco dining and proximity to the beach makes Gregory Street and

The Strand the perfect stop for a meal. Spoil yourself with a delicious gelato or have a relaxing drink at one of the restaurants or bars found along The Strand. Gregory Street is also home to several boutique shopping outlets and is the perfect spot to enjoy some retail therapy after a bite to eat.

Cannon Park

Located a short distance from the Riverway precinct and 1300SMILES Stadium, home of the North Queensland Cowboys, Cannon Park offers diners a range of cuisine and a social atmosphere. You can catch a live show

at Riverway Arts Centre, see a movie at the cinemas, challenge your friends at tenpin bowling or have a pint at the local Irish pub.

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Shopping

Townsville boasts five major shopping precincts – the Central Business District, Domain Central, Castletown Shoppingworld, Stockland Townsville and Willows Shopping Centre. Visitors can find local fashion boutiques located in and around the CBD, as well as on Palmer, Flinders and Gregory Streets. Townsville is also home to popular retailer, Myer, at Stockland, perfect for those looking for the latest fashions. Markets are regularly held throughout the region, with fresh produce, homemade sweets, plants, flowers, clothing and crafts available.

Located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park just 8km and a 20 minute ferry ride off the coast of Townsville, Magnetic Island is the perfect tropical escape for a day or a week. With 23 beaches and bays, Magnetic Island has the natural beauty and serenity of untouched paradise within a thriving community.

The rocky granite headlands fuse with sheltered bays and beaches, studded with majestic hoop pines trees, creating a dramatic coastline. Over two-thirds of the Island is protected as National Park, providing a haven for native wildlife, including rock wallabies, koalas, possums and over 100 species of birdlife.

Explore the National Park from bay to bay on a network of walking tracks through dry woodlands of wattles and eucalypts and pockets of rainforest, viewing native animals up close in their natural habitats. Snorkel or sail on one of the bays and discover tropical fish and other marine life that live in the surrounding reefs and tranquil waters.

Getting There and Around

Magnetic Island is only 20 minutes on the SeaLink Queensland ferry from Townsville and once you’ve docked it’s straight into Island life. If you haven’t brought your own vehicle over on the Fantasea Cruising Magnetic barge, the public bus service makes tripping around the Island a breeze. Alternatively, you can hire a scooter, colourful topless car or baby four wheel drive.

Other options for the fitness conscious traveller include exploring the wilderness via walking tracks or bike riding from bay to bay.

Discover Magnetic Island

Top Five ‘must do’ Experiences

1 Snorkel the fringing reefs around Magnetic Island’smost popular beaches on one of the designated snorkel trails

2 Explore the 25km of walking tracks on the Island

3 Observe the rock wallabies at Geoffrey Bay in Arcadia

4 See Northern Australia’s largest colony of koalas inthe wild on The Forts Walk

5 Sail around the Island to discover some secluded bays

Northern Beaches

For a relaxing day out, Townsville’s northern beaches - just 60km north of the city - are the ideal getaway. Bushland, Saunders, Toolakea, Toomulla and Balgal Beaches are perfect for fishing, swimming, picnicking and bird watching.

Crystal Creek

For a pleasant change of climate and scenery, travel north along the Bruce Highway and turn left to Crystal Creek in Paluma Range National Park. With two swimming holes, Big Crystal Creek and Little Crystal Creek, this area is a favourite for Townsville locals and offers the perfect place to cool off on a warm day. Big Crystal Creek, at the base of the Paluma Range, features a large swimming hole, natural rock slides and a picnicking area, perfect for families and larger groups.

Little Crystal Creek, located 11km up the winding road to Paluma Village, is well known for its historic stone arch bridge built in the 1930s. Cascading waterfalls feed into one of the best freshwater swimming holes in the north.

Paluma

Embrace the natural beauty of the Paluma Range National Park – the southern gateway to the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Escape the coastal lowland heat and relax in the cool mountain air of the Paluma Range. Experience the thrill of being one ofthe ‘lucky ones’ that spots the rare golden bowerbird, and take a step back in history at Paluma, the village in the rainforest.Absorb the exotic sounds of birdlife on a rainforest walk andsmile for the cameras at McClellands Lookout as you enjoystunning views along the coast.

Travelling on from Paluma, the diversity of flora and fauna changes dramatically as you enter the dry open woodlands. The small township of Hidden Valley is home to Hidden Valley Cabins and Tours, an exclusive retreat offering daily platypus tours and home cooked meals.

Discover Paluma and the Northern Beaches

Accessible from Townsville, the central section of the Great Barrier Reef offers some of the best diving sites on the east coast, from shallow lagoons, pinnacles rising from 30m to 5m from the surface, walls, swim throughs and wrecks.

Located a little further off the coast, the central section has less impact from human activity. Day trips often visit Lodestone Reef, home to a variety of habitats from shallow areas with white sandy sea floor and large coral bommies (outcrops) to steep slopes with deep crevasses hosting a great diversity of fish life, including small damsels and butterfly fish to larger animals like the giant trevally and occasional reef shark.

The multi-day trips mostly travel at night to maximise time on the reef, visiting a variety of locations including Wheeler Reef, with its white sandy cay and many pelagic species, Davies Reef with pinnacles rising from 30m and shallower bommies riddled with swim throughs and caves, Barra Bommie at Little Broadhurst Reef, where you can spot an octopus, and Australia’s best dive the S.S. Yongala Wreck, with the biggest diversity of large marine life around the world - Queensland gropers weighing over 300kgs, giant trevally, turtles, sea snakes, bull sharks and eagle rays just to mention a few.

S.S. Yongala

Experienced divers should visit the S.S. Yongala, a 28m deep shipwreck, that sank off the coast of Ayr (just south of Townsville in the Burdekin) during a tropical cyclone in 1911. Rated the number one(1) dive site by Scuba Travel in 2017, the SS Yongala is home to a captivating array of hard and soft coral and spectacular marine life including sea turtles, sea anemone and thousands of inquisitive reef fish. Dive trips to the SS Yongala depart from Townsville, Magnetic Island and Alva Beach in the Burdekin. This historic wreck will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

Hinchinbrook Island

Separated from the mainland only by the narrow Hinchinbrook Channel, the rugged peaks of Hinchinbrook Island National Park rise abruptly from the sea, signalling the Island’s wild nature. Hinchinbrook is home to the world renowned wilderness walk, the Thorsborne Trail. Covering 32km, the Trail follows some of Australia’s most scenic island coastline. Discover sweeping bays, sandy beaches, extensive mangroves, fragile heaths, dense forests and lofty summits - perfect for the traveller with a thirst for adventure.

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Discover the Great Barrier Reef

Diving on the Great Barrier Reef

Exploring the S.S. Yongala shipwreck courtesy of Adrenalin Dive

Hinchinbrook Island by Paul Ewart

Orpheus Island

Charter a boat, take your own or jump on a helicopter to unwind on Orpheus Island National Park in the Palm Group of Islands. Book into the luxury resort or set up a self-sufficient camp in one of the Island’s secluded camping areas. Snorkel off the beach in blue-green reef waters to discover a marine wonderland or look and listen for birds in the forest and on the shore. This is a true tropical island experience!

Palm Island

Located 65km north-west of Townsville, Palm Island is the traditional country of the Manbarra people and, more recently, home of the Bwgcolman tribal people. Palm Island’s assets are its unique Indigenous heritage and its location within the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The pristine waters of the area make it a great fishing spot for mackerel and coral trout.

Sailing and Fishing on the Great Barrier Reef

Townsville North Queensland’s tropical weather provides the perfect environment for sailing and boating. Experienced sailors can charter a vessel to sail through the many secluded areas. If you prefer group interaction, there are plenty of day trips departing Townsville and Magnetic Island.

The Great Barrier Reef is a fisherman’s paradise with some of the most succulent catches being spanish mackerel, coral trout, red emperor and sweet lip. More than one-third of the Great Barrier Reef is declared a ‘no-take zone’, so if you are looking to catch and cook, check the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s Zoning Regulations before you leave the shore.

Sailing by Cameron Laird

Clownfish by Jenny Huang

Great Palm Island by Megan MacKinnon

Orpheus Island

If tropical rainforest, eco-adventures, cultural heritage and beautiful beaches are on your list for the perfect holiday, Hinchinbrook is a must-see destination. This scenic region is just an hour’s drive north of Townsville and is a wonderland of nature based attractions in a vibrant cultural setting.

Numerous walking tracks, historic sites as well as national parks for picnics, photography and bike riding beckon you to explore this piece of Townsville North Queensland.

Wetland Wonders

TYTO Wetlands is a unique 120ha natural wetland area that is home to over 230 species of birds, tropical plants and native wildlife. Extensive walking tracks allow visitors to explore the park at their own pace. Enjoy the lagoons as you walk along the boardwalk linking the TYTO Information and Wetlands Centre to TYTO and TYTO Regional Gallery. The precinct offers waterfront dining, a historical cane display and a bird’s eye view of the area by climbing the 11m observation tower.

Natural Experiences

You will be amazed when you stand in front of Wallaman Falls, the Southern Hemisphere’s highest permanent single-drop waterfall, located in Girringun National Park. In between the forest clad ridge tops and rainforest lined gullies and creeks, Wallaman Falls stands at almost 300m. Experience the beauty of World Heritage rainforest and spectacular gorge views on short walking tracks near the Falls.

Girringun National Park is also the gateway to the Wet Tropics Great Walks. Discover plunging waterfalls, lush gorges and inspirational views as you tackle one of the two day walks that start from Wallaman Falls and trek down the Herbert River Valley, on the Wallaman Falls section of The Great Walk.

Ingham is the closest mainland connection to Hinchinbrook Island with the neighbouring channel a protected environment for the dugong. The Hinchinbrook Channel is a picturesque setting that offers some of the region’s best fishing.

Indigenous

The Hinchinbrook region also encompasses the traditional country of the Nywaigi, Warrgamay and Bandjin Aboriginal people. Visit Mungalla Station, near Forrest Beach, to hear stories about the Indigenous and European history of the area.

Discover Hinchinbrook

Mayor Ramon Jayo recommends...• Visit the unique and awe-inspiring

Wallaman Falls

• Take in the Island views from Lucinda Jetty, thelongest in the Southern Hemisphere at 5.76km

• Take a walk along the TYTO Wetlands walkway, keeping an eye out for the vast amount of wildlife that call the Wetlands home

Just one hour’s drive south of Townsville is the Burdekin Shire – the sugar capital of Australia, fishing mecca, bird watching paradise and traditional homeland of the Gudjuda Aboriginal people.

The district is made up of the neighbouring towns of Ayr and Home Hill and includes over a dozen other smaller centres. It is as famous for its rich, flat farmlands as it is for its amazing waterways and scenic beauty. The Burdekin maintains a healthy reputation for its friendly residents, great specialty stores and laid back lifestyle.

Sugar

As producer of the biggest and sweetest sugar cane in the country, the Burdekin is also one of the only cane growing regions left in Australia where cane is burnt before harvesting. These magnificent cane fires light up the skies every evening between June and December and have become a tourist attraction in their own right.

Fishing

Fantastic fishing is on offer in the estuaries and waterways of the fertile Burdekin Delta. Fishing tours are available to catch barramundi, mud crabs, prawns, mangrove jack and more.

Icons

The Burdekin River Bridge, which links Ayr and Home Hill, is the district’s best known landmark. Known as the Silver Link, the 1,103m crossing is the only bridge in Australia built without a solid footing and is longer than the Sydney Harbour Bridge. An Engineering Heritage National Landmark Award was unveiled on the southern side of the Bridge in 2010.

The S.S. Yongala shipwreck lies just off the coast of Ayr and is ranked one of the top 10 dive sites in the world. This is a must do for experienced divers. Yongala Dive, based at Alva Beach, is the fastest way to get to the site and discover the magnificent marine life that calls the wreck home.

Wetlands

The Burdekin’s magnificent wetlands are home to an amazing array of bird life, some of which are unique to the area. Bird watchers shouldn’t miss the chance to visit Plantation Park or Horseshoe Lagoon.

Discover The Burdekin

Mayor Lyn McLaughlin recommends...• Boutique shopping

• Dining on quality produce at one of our many eateries

• Enjoying the wide variety of community events throughout the year

• Fishing in one of the many waterways

Take a step back in time and explore the unique history and heritage of the gold rush towns of Charters Towers and Ravenswood.

Charters Towers

Driving through the streets of Charters Towers is like viewing a living montage of Australian history and heritage. Gold was first discovered in Charters Towers in 1871 by Aboriginal horse boy, Jupiter Mosman. Thousands flocked from across the globe in a mad rush to the town, once the second largest in Queensland. The town was believed to have everything a civilised person could want and soon became known as ‘The World’.

The magnificent heritage buildings are testament to the prosperity of the era. The heritage listed Stock Exchange Arcade, World Theatre, City Hall and Post Office Tower will have you reaching for your camera. Don’t forget to visit the iconic drive-in cinema for flicks under the stars, Towers Hill lookout, Venus Gold Battery - the largest surviving battery relic in Australia – or learn to pan for gold at The Miner’s Cottage.

Today, Charters Towers is known as a rural hub for graziers and the mining industry and hosts the Southern Hemisphere’s largest cricket carnival, the Charters Towers Goldfield Ashes, each January.

Ravenswood

A short 40km detour off the Flinders Highway, en-route to Charters Towers, you will find historic Ravenswood.

Formerly settled for gold mining, this unique heritage listed town looks like a movie set with its beautiful old buildings, mullock heaps and chimney stacks. The Court House Museum, the restored School House, Thorp’s Building and Butler’s Cottage are just some of the treasures visitors can discover.

Take a self-guided walk to visit them all or climb to the top of the local lookout to view the amazing open-cut mine – a great place to take a photo. Travel just 5km out of town to White Blow Conservation Park to admire the unusual geological formation of a unique white quartz outcrop dating back 300 million years.

Discover Charters Towers

Mayor Liz Schmidt recommends...• Bunkers WW2 display on Towers Hill• Venus Battery• Shopping and also Eating at any of the

many fine food outlets

• Strolling the streets and taking in theheritage feel of the town

• Picnic at Weir Park • Day trip to Ravenswood

WILDLIFE AND NATURE FREE LOCAL ATTRACTIONS