TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND - Ranavirus Symposium 4th - 6th June 2019 - Rana 2019 Conference
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TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND Ranavirus Symposium 4th - 6th June 2019
Accessing Townsville North Queensland
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.
Townsville Direct Flight Map Average Direct Flight Times
Cairns 1hr
Mackay 1hr
Toowoomba 1hr 50min
Darwin Brisbane 1hr 55min
Sydney 2hr 35min
Darwin 2hr 45min
Cairns
Melbourne
Mount Isa
TOWNSVILLE 3hr
Mackay
Rockhampton
Toowoomba
Brisbane
Gold Coast
Sydney
Melbourne
Airline Providers Currently Servicing Townsville Airport
TOWNSVILLE CITY MAP
Where to Stay
PROPERTY NAME DETAILS CONTACT
The Ville Resort–Casino The Ville Resort- Casino offers a variety Sir Leslie Thiess Drive, Townsville
of hotel accommodation from deluxe Ph: +617 4722 2201
rooms to family suites. With a number www.the-ville.com.au
of superb restaurants on-site and
centrally located to The Strand and city.
Mercure Townsville Family and hotel rooms available. 66-194 Woolcock Street
Centrally located with beautiful resort Ph: +617 4759 4902
pool and restaurant on site. The www.mercuretownsville.com.au
Mercure is also walking distance to one
of Townsville’s major shopping center’s.
Mariners North Holiday Apartments Apartment style accommodation in 7 Mariners Drive, The Strand Townsville
a magical location on The Strand. Ph:+617 47522 0777
Beautiful grounds and a short walk to www.marinersnorth.com.au
the city.
Rydges Southbank Townsville Rydges Southbank Townsville is located 23 Palmer Street, Townsville Ph. +617
along one of Townsville Restaurant Ph: +617 4726 5265
hubs. The hotel is also walking distance www.rydges.com
to the City Centre
City Oasis Inn City Oasis Inn is centrally located in 143 Wills St, Townsville City
Townsville City with motel style rooms Ph:+617 4771 6048
and larger rooms with a kitchenette. www.cityoasis.com.au
Hotel Grand Chancellor Located in Townsville’s city center, walk 334 Flinders Street, Townsville City
to restaurants and bars or dine on-site Ph. +617 3834 4865
at the Sugar Shaker restaurant. www.grandchancellorhotels.com
Grand Hotel and Apartments Located on Palmer Street, Grand Hotel 8-10 Palmer Street, South Townsville
and Apartments offer a variety of Ph: +617 47532800
hotel rooms, one and two bedroom www.grandhoteltownsville.com.au
apartments.
Park Regis Anchorage
Quest Townsville on Eyre Close to the Strand and Gregory Street 19-21 Leichhardt Street, North Ward
restaurants, Quest Townsville on Eyre Ph: +617 4789 7400
offer serviced apartment style hotel www.questapartments.com.au
rooms.
Quest Townsville on Palmer Located in the heart of Townsville’s 30-34 Palmer Street, South Townsville
dinning precinct Quest Townsville Ph: +617 4726 4444
offers apartment style hotel rooms. www.questtownsville.com.au
Rowes Bay Holiday Park Rowes Bay Holiday Park s located 46 Heatleys Parade, Belgian Gardens
beach front at Rowes Bay - just a Ph. +617 1800 751 845
short drive to the Strand and City www.rowesbayholidaypark.com.au
Centre. Caravan and Camping sites are
available as well as Cabins and Villas.
Central Holborn Apartments Located in Townsville’s newly 4 Kingsway Place, Townsville City
developed Central Precinct, these are Ph: +617 4724 3378
new stylish serviced apartments. With www.vivoproperty.com.au
several restaurants and cinema’s at
your doorstep.
Central Kensington Apartments Located in Townsville’s newly 3 Kingsway Place, Townsville City
developed Central Precinct, these are Ph: +617 47243378
new stylish serviced apartments. With www.vivoproperty.com.au
several restaurants and cinema’s at
your doorstep.
Central Islington Apartments Central Islington Apartments are 4 Aplin Street, Townsville City
located only 5 minutes walk from Ph: +617 5341 6600
Townsville CBD. www.vivoproperty.com.au
Where to Stay
PROPERTY NAME DETAILS CONTACT
Amaroo on Mandalay Amaroo on Mandalay is located on Magnetic Island
beautiful Magnetic Island. Conveniently 61-79 Mandalay Ave, Nelly Bay
located in Nelly Bay and just a short Ph: +617 47785200
taxi ride from the terminal. Enjoy the www.amarooonmandalay.com.au
best of both Island and City life during
your stay.
Peppers Blue on Blue Resort Pepper’s Blue on Blue is conveniently Magnetic Island
located at Nelly Bay on Magnetic Island. 123 Sooning Street, Nelly Bay
Jump on a Ferry in the city and be on Ph: +617 4758 2414
the island in 20min. Peppers is located www.peppers.com.au
less than 100m from the terminal
on Magnetic Island. Get the best of
both world’s! 1, 2 and 3 bedroom
apartments available.
Grand Mercure Apartments A mere 50 meters from Magnetic Island Magnetic Island
Ferry Terminal access all the island has 146 Sooning Street, Nelly Bay
to offer while still being only 20min Ph: +617 4758 2100
ferry ride from the city. www.grandmercure.com
Getting Around
Rental Cars and People Movers SeaLink - Magnetic Island Sunbus
You'll find the Townsville Airport Thrifty desk SeaLink operates up to 18 daily services to Sunbus is Townsville's public transport
in the arrivals area, so you can get straight off Magnetic Island and will have you in service. For all Townsville bus timetable
your plane and pick up your car to hit the paradise in only 20 minutes on one of their information please visit their website -
road. high-speed catamarans. Their terminal is
located walking distance from the City wwww.sunbus.com.au
Ph: +617 4725 4655 Centre - no need to pre-book your ferry
www.thrifty.com.au ticket, tickets are available at the terminal or
onboard the boast if the terminal is closed.
Townsville Taxis
Detour Coaches
For Ferry timetables and more information Book a safe, reliable ride with Townsville
Detour Coaches specialise in charters from Taxi's professional drivers. Download their
please visit - wwww.sealinkqld.com.au
16 people to 600. If you're after more than app for quick, convenient bookings.
Ph: +617 4726 0800
just transport - the team can also assist with
tours in Townsville and North Queensland Ph: 131 008
region. www.tsvtaxi.com.au
Magnetic Island Ferries
Ph: +617 4728 5311
www.detourscoaches.com.au Magnetic 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.au
Ph: +617 4796 9300
LIFESTYLE
WILDLIFE AND NATURE
DINING PRECINCTS
Palmer Street Cannon Park City Lane
Located on the city’s south bank, Palmer Located a short distance from the Riverway The dining scene in Townsville North
Street captures the essence of international precinct and 1300Smiles Stadium – home of Queensland has come alive with Townsville’s
cuisine and is a prime location to start your the North Queensland Cowboys – Cannon first creative laneway precinct. Offering
day or night out boasting award winning Park offers diners a range of cuisine and a variety of dining options, City Lane on
restaurants for breakfast, lunch or dinner. a social atmosphere. You can catch a live Flinders Street is a sophisticated, New York
Whether you desire Indian, Italian, French, show at Riverway Arts Centre, see a movie at inspired precinct complete with street art,
Mexican, modern Australian or locally caught the cinemas, challenge your friends at tenpin funky décor and an atmosphere to match.
seafood, this is Townsville’s premier eating bowling or have a pint at the local Irish pub.
strip.
Flinders Street Central Village
Gregory Street and The Strand Revellers looking to keep the party going For a fun night out, why not catch the latest
The alfresco dining and proximity to the after dinner should look no further than the movie at the cinema followed by dinner at
beach makes Gregory Street and The Strand inner city. Flinders Street boasts an eclectic Central Village. This new dining precinct
the perfect stop for a meal. Spoil yourself mix of restaurants, nightclubs, pubs and offers a collection of sidewalk cafes and
with a delicious gelato or have a relaxing cocktail bars. Flinders Street East buzzes with alfresco dining.
drink at one of the restaurants or bars found a lively atmosphere with patrons enjoying
along The Strand. Gregory Street is also cocktails, tapas and dancing the night away
home to several boutique shopping outlets in the nightclubs.
and is the perfect spot to enjoy some retail
therapy after a bite to eat.
FOOD & DRINK
JAM BRIDGEWATER
Experience Australia’s very best Enjoy a meal by award winning chef
breakfast (Australian Savour Awards) . Matt Merrin or a drink and small bite to
eat at Bridge Bar.
www.jamcorner.com.au www.bridgewaterq.com.au
CBAR THE PIER
The ocean breezes and views across to Enjoy locally sourced seafood at a
Magnetic Island will give you that holiday stunning waterfront location.
feeling in no time.
www.cbar.com.au www.pierrestaurantandbar.com
MISS SONGS TOWNSVILLE BREWERY
Located at the Ville Resort - let Miss Sit back enjoying a meal while you watch
Songs take you on a journey across the the beer making process of the local
Orient. Townsville Bitter.
www.the-ville.com.au www.townsvillebrewery.com
SHORE HOUSE CITY LANE
Enjoy modern Asian Cuisine and watch
City Lane is an absolute must visit,
the world go by from their ocean front
offering a bevy of dining options to suit
deck.
everyone’s tastes.
www.shorehousetownsvile.com.au
www.citylane.com.au
LONGBOARD BAR AND GRILL WILD GOOSE
Dine with breathtaking views from BREWS AND CHEWS
Townsville’s award-winning beachfront to Loosen into holiday mode with a range of
Magnetic Island. food, beer and cocktails.
www.longboardbarandgrill.com www.wildgoose.net.au
LIFESTYLE
WILDLIFE AND NATURE
FOOD & DRINK
PALM HOUSE CACTUS JACKS
Change what you thought you knew An outing to Cactus Jacks for a Mexican
about buffet dining. Showcasing the fiesta is guaranteed to be a fun night out
freshest produce North Queensland that the whole family will enjoy!
has to offer with a little bit of flair.
www.cactusjacks.com.au
www.the-ville.com.au
A TOUCH OF SALT
OTTO'S FRESH FOOD MARKET
Take in the waterfront views and
You will be spoiled for choice at
enjoy one of Townsville's favorite
Otto's. Choose from their Deli,
casual fine dinning restaurants.
Artisian Bakehaus, Pizza Palour or
www.atouchofsalt.com.au order straight off the menu.
www.ottosmarket.com.au
CELCIUS RESTAURANT RAMBUTAN
Enjoy fresh food in relaxing poolside Dine poolside at Rambutan on Flinders
ambience at Celcius Restaurant and Bar, Street, with cocktails, pool parties and
located at Mercure Townsville. delicious meals!
www.mercuretownsville.com www.rambutantownsville.com.
TIDE CAFE SOUTHBANK GRILL
A great place to grab coffee, breakfast or Savour tasty grill selections and imbibe
lunch, right on The Strand. classic cocktails at Southbank Grill at
Rydges Southbank Townsville.
www.tidecafe.com.au
www.rydges.com
PEPPERS BLUE ON BLUE Quarterdeck
Fine dining meets island lifestyle at Imagine relaxing with a chilled bottle of
Peppers on Magnetic Island, with wine or ice cold beer and tapas delights
beautiful views across the marina. as you gaze across to magnetic island.
www.peppers.com.au www.the-ville.com.au
CIRCA 20 COWBOYS LEAGUES CLUB
Mix amongst the locals at Circa 20, Soak up the atmosphere at the Cowboy’s
located at the local rugby league Brothers League Club, home of the North
Leagues Club. Queensland Toyota Cowboys.
www.brotherstsv.com.au www.cowboysleagues.com.au
HOOCH AND FELLOW HERBERT HOTEL
Enjoy a signature cocktail at Hooch With an extensive Pub Grub menu, It
and Fellow but get in quick - the menu doesn’t get more Australian than the
changes every week! Herbert Hotel.
www.theherbie.com
www.facebook.com/hoochandfellow
FROSTY MANGO HERVEYS RANGE
Healthy, fresh, home-made food and HERITAGE TEA ROOMS
icecream made with love in Escape the hustle and bustle of city life as
North Queensland. you enjoy this quaint cafe shop.
www.frostymango.com.au www.heritagetearooms.com.au
FREE LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
Driving Distance from City Centre
TOWNSVILLE
THE STRAND 3 MINS CASTLE HILL 11 MINS
Just metres short of a mountain, Castle
Immerse yourself in the Townsville Hill is the giant pink granite monolith that
way of life and discover The Strand, stands proud in the centre of Townsville
Townsville’s thriving beach foreshore! - a perfect place for visitors to orientate
themselves.
CAPE PALLARENDA 10 MINS
BOTANIC GARDENS 13 MINS
Walk or mountain bike the shared trails
Explore Townsville’s popular botanic
throughout the park to see the World
gardens including Anderson Gardens,
War II structures on the Cape Pallarenda
Queens Gardens and The Palmetum.
headland and explore the beaches and
forested slopes of Many Peak Range.
JEZZINE BARRACKS 6 MINS TOWN COMMON 14 MINS
Discover the military and Aboriginal Summer rains transform the Town
heritage of the Kissing Point headland Common area into an immense wetland,
through artworks, displays and the attracting large flocks of waterbirds. For
restoration of the Kissing Point birdwatchers, the park is a paradise with
Fort complex. up to 280 bird species recorded here.
MAGNETIC ISLAND 20 MIN FERRY TRANSFER
ROCK WALLABIES SNORKEL TRAILS
The sociable rock wallabies at Geoffrey Discover amazing fringing coral reefs at
Bay are perhaps some of the cutest Geoffrey and Nelly Bay. Pick up a swim
creatures on Magnetic Island. Grab a bag card to learn about the coral and fish you
of wallaby feed from the nearby Arcadia may encounter along the way and walk
Newsagency. right of the beach to start exploring!
THE FORTS WALK KOALAS IN THE WILD
Don’t miss the remarkable Forts Walk on Magnetic Island is home to North
Magnetic Island: the best vantage point Australia’s largest colony of koalas living
for wildlife (including koalas), spectacular in the wild, so keep your eyes peeled for
rocky coves and historic military sites. koalas in the trees above.
FREE LOCAL AND
WILDLIFE ATTRACTIONS
NATURE
PALUMA AND HINCHINBROOK 1.5 HRS DRIVE
WALLAMAN FALLS 2.5 HRS PALUMA NATIONAL PARK 1 HR
You’ll be amazed when you stand in Experience the thrill of spotting the rare
front of Wallaman Falls, the Southern golden bowerbird and take a step back in
Hemisphere’s highest permanent single time at Paluma village. Enjoy a rainforest
drop waterfall, located in Girringun walk and breathtaking views from
National Park. McClellands Lookout.
TYTO WETLANDS 1.5 HRS
PUB WITH NO BEER 1.5 HRS
Experience the natural beauty and
Enjoy a cold one at Lees Hotel Motel,
tranquil environment of TYTO Wetlands,
made famous by Slim Dusty’s number
a unique 90-hectare natural wetland.
one hit song Pub ‘With No Beer’.
Spot native Australian wildlife along the
walkways and lookouts.
JOURAMA FALLS 1.15 HRS
LUCINDA JETTY 2 HRS
Relax, camp, walk and spot native wildlife
At 5.76 kilometres long, Lucinda holds
amongst the rainforest at Jourama Falls.
the longest service jetty in the Southern
Enjoy a picnic, hike to lookout platforms
Hemisphere, which follows the curved
and take a dip in the creeks and
contour of the Earth.
rockslides.
CHARTERS TOWERS 1.5 HRS DRIVE
TOWERS HILL STOCK EXCHANGE ARCADE
Immerse yourself in the history of One of Australia’s first regional stock
Charters Towers on Towers Hill. Spot exchanges, the price of gold was once
native wildlife and step back in time to set in this very Arcade. Today, you can
learn about the 1871 Gold Rush. discover cafes, shops, galleries and
displays in the historic building.
BURDEKIN 1 HR DRIVE
CANE FIRES FISHING
Witness a magnificent cane fire light up Fantastic fishing is on offer in the
the evening in the Burdekin, one of the waterways of the Burdekin Delta. Tours
few regions in Australia where cane is are available to catch barramundi, mud
burnet before harvesting, crabs, prawns, mangrove jack and more!Pre and Post Touring
The best holidays are the ones that leave you feeling energised A little further south is the Burdekin, the sugar capital of
and alive. Townsville North Queensland gives you that feeling Australia. Sample the legendary Burdekin produce or try your
with a collection of destinations and attractions to spark hand at barramundi fishing in the Burdekin River estuaries!
anyone’s curiosity. 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 best place to begin your exploration is Townsville City.
Beneath the protective presence of Castle Hill, Townsville City The last destinations to explore are the ancient and awe-
combines federation architecture with modern fine dining like inspiring rainforests of Townsville North Queensland. Swim
no other Queensland city. Stroll down The Strand and look over in the crystal clear waterholes of Crystal Creek, stare with
the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef, or better understand its amazement at Wallaman Falls in the Hinchinbrook region –
beauty with a visit to Reef HQ Aquarium. the largest single-drop waterfall in Australia – or play
hide ’n’ seek in the world’s oldest continually living rainforest
If it’s nature you like, don’t miss a walk around Magnetic Island, in Paluma Range National Park.
where you can spot Northern Australia’s largest colony of wild
koalas. The remarkable Forts Walk is the best vantage point Townsville North Queensland rewards your curiosity. Wander,
for wildlife, spectacular rocky coves and historic military sites. ramble, peer and unearth, and you’ll leave with something
more precious than gold: the feeling of being alive!
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.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 Jezzine Barracks
• Dive the S.S. Yongala or skydive over The Strand
• E
njoy an exhibition at Perc Tucker Regional Located at northern end of The Strand,
Gallery and the Pinnacles Gallery 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.
Castle Hill Townsville CBD
Just metres short of a mountain, Castle The Townsville CBD is growing its
Hill is the giant pink granite monolith reputation as a centre for food and
that stands proud in the centre of entertainment. Visitors can enjoy
Townsville – serving as the perfect place boutique shopping, alfresco dining and
for visitors to orientate themselves with Sunday local markets. The CBD is well
the city. Take the easy drive to the top for connected with the Palmer Street dining
stunning panoramic views of Magnetic and accommodation precinct located Riverway
Island and Cleveland Bay, Townsville City just a short walk from the central hub
and suburbs and the Northern Beaches. of Townsville Bulletin Square over the Two huge swimming lagoons, playgrounds,
Challenge yourself and join the 1,000+ historic Victoria Bridge. Make the most parklands, a performance and arts centre
locals that run and walk up the Hill every of the free Wi-Fi in Townsville Bulletin and a sports stadium, all situated on the
day – if you’re up for it. Square and pop in to see the Volunteers banks of the Ross River. The Riverway
at the Visitor Information Centre. precinct is perfect for families looking to
enjoy the great outdoor lifestyle that North
Queensland is famous for.
The Strand
Flinders Street
Townsville’s famous foreshore, The
Strand, is the perfect place to relax Those revellers looking to keep the Reef HQ Aquarium
during your visit. Stretching 2.5km and party going after dinner should look no
offering views across Cleveland Bay further than the inner city. Flinders Street Reef HQ Aquarium is the world’s largest
to Magnetic Island, The Strand is a boasts an eclectic mix of restaurants, living coral reef aquarium and the
favourite for locals and visitors alike. nightclubs, pubs and cocktail bars. National Education Centre for the Great
BBQ facilities, swimming enclosures, City Lane is a great place to start your Barrier Reef. Reef HQ Aquarium provides
freshwater showers, a waterpark, night whether it’s for drinks or dinner. the most outstanding Great Barrier
playgrounds and waterfront dining make Flinders Street East buzzes with a lively Reef experience through education,
this the obvious place to visit. atmosphere with patrons enjoying inspiration and entertainment. The Reef
cocktails, tapas and dancing in the HQ Aquarium Turtle Hospital provides
nightclubs until late. a dedicated facility where sick and
injured marine turtles are cared for and
rehabilitated.tells the story of the HMS Pandora, the The Strand the perfect stop for a meal.
ship sent by British Admiralty to capture Spoil yourself with a delicious gelato
the Bounty and her mutinous crew. or have a relaxing drink at one of the
The Museum also hosts a series of restaurants or bars found along The
visiting displays and touring exhibitions Strand. Gregory Street is also home to
throughout the year. The kids will love several boutique shopping outlets and
Billabong Sanctuary the Enchanted Rainforest display. is the perfect spot to enjoy some retail
therapy after a bite to eat.
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.
Dining, Drinking and Dancing
Cannon Park
Whether it’s sipping cocktails
overlooking The Strand, dining on trying Located a short distance from the
your luck at Jupiters Townsville Hotel & Riverway precinct and 1300SMILES
Casino, fine dining on Palmer Street Stadium, home of the North Queensland
or partying until late in Flinders Street Cowboys, Cannon Park offers diners
Museums nightclubs, there is plenty to do after a range of cuisine and a social
the sun sets. atmosphere. You can catch a live show
Townsville offers a number of museums at Riverway Arts Centre, see a movie at
showcasing the rich history and the cinemas, challenge your friends at
stories of the region. As well as the tenpin bowling or have a pint at the local
award-winning Museum of Tropical Irish pub.
Queensland, other museums include
the Maritime Museum, the Townsville
Military Museum, the Townsville Royal
Australian Air Force Museum and the
National Heritage Trust Centre. Palmer Street
z
Located on the city’s south bank,
Palmer Street captures the essence of
international cuisine. Palmer Street is a Shopping
prime location to start your night, or day,
boasting award-winning restaurants for Townsville boasts five major shopping
breakfast, lunch or dinner. Whether you precincts – the Central Business
Perc Tucker Regional Gallery desire Indian, Asian, Italian, French, District, Domain Central, Castletown
Mexican, modern Australian or locally Shoppingworld, Stockland Townsville
Townsville’s premier regional art gallery, caught seafood, this is Townsville’s and Willows Shopping Centre. Visitors
offering a dynamic range of local, premium eating strip. can find local fashion boutiques located
national and international exhibitions. 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
Museum of Tropical Queensland Gregory Street and The Strand crafts available.
Located in the heart of Townsville city, The alfresco dining and proximity to
the Museum of Tropical Queensland the beach makes Gregory Street andDiscover Magnetic Island
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 Top Five ‘must do’ Experiences
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
1 Snorkel the fringing reefs around Magnetic Island’s
most popular beaches on one of the designated
walking tracks through dry woodlands of wattles and eucalypts
snorkel trails
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.
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 in
the wild on The Forts Walk
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 5 Sail around the Island to discover some secluded bays
the wilderness via walking tracks or bike riding from bay to bay.Discover Paluma and the Northern Beaches 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 of the ‘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 and smile for the cameras at McClellands Lookout as you enjoy stunning 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 the Great Barrier Reef
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 Diving on the Great Barrier Reef
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. Exploring the S.S. Yongala shipwreck courtesy of Adrenalin Dive
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.
Hinchinbrook Island by Paul EwartOrpheus 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 Orpheus Island
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
Great Palm Island by Megan MacKinnon
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 Sailing by Cameron Laird
Zoning Regulations before you leave the shore.
Clownfish by Jenny HuangDiscover Hinchinbrook
Mayor Ramon Jayo recommends...
• V
isit the unique and awe-inspiring • T
ake a walk along the TYTO Wetlands
Wallaman Falls walkway, keeping an eye out for the vast
• Take in the Island views from Lucinda Jetty, the amount of wildlife that call the Wetlands home
longest in the Southern Hemisphere at 5.76km
If tropical rainforest, eco-adventures, cultural heritage and Natural Experiences
beautiful beaches are on your list for the perfect holiday,
Hinchinbrook is a must-see destination. This scenic region is You will be amazed when you stand in front of Wallaman Falls,
just an hour’s drive north of Townsville and is a wonderland of the Southern Hemisphere’s highest permanent single-drop
nature based attractions in a vibrant cultural setting. waterfall, located in Girringun National Park. In between the
forest clad ridge tops and rainforest lined gullies and creeks,
Numerous walking tracks, historic sites as well as national Wallaman Falls stands at almost 300m. Experience the beauty
parks for picnics, photography and bike riding beckon you to of World Heritage rainforest and spectacular gorge views on
explore this piece of Townsville North Queensland. short walking tracks near the Falls.
Wetland Wonders Girringun National Park is also the gateway to the Wet Tropics
Great Walks. Discover plunging waterfalls, lush gorges and
TYTO Wetlands is a unique 120ha natural wetland area that is inspirational views as you tackle one of the two day walks
home to over 230 species of birds, tropical plants and native that start from Wallaman Falls and trek down the Herbert River
wildlife. Extensive walking tracks allow visitors to explore the Valley, on the Wallaman Falls section of The Great Walk.
park at their own pace. Enjoy the lagoons as you walk along
the boardwalk linking the TYTO Information and Wetlands Ingham is the closest mainland connection to Hinchinbrook
Centre to TYTO and TYTO Regional Gallery. The precinct offers Island with the neighbouring channel a protected environment
waterfront dining, a historical cane display and a bird’s eye view for the dugong. The Hinchinbrook Channel is a picturesque
of the area by climbing the 11m observation tower. 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 The Burdekin
Mayor Lyn McLaughlin recommends...
• Boutique shopping njoying the wide variety of community
• E
• Dining on quality produce at one of our many events throughout the year
eateries • Fishing in one of the many waterways
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 Charters Towers
Mayor Liz Schmidt recommends...
• Strolling the streets and taking in the
• Bunkers
WW2 display on Towers Hill heritage feel of the town
• Venus Battery • Picnic at Weir Park
• Shopping and also Eating at any of the • Day trip to Ravenswood
many fine food outlets
Take a step back in time and explore the unique history Ravenswood
and heritage of the gold rush towns of Charters Towers
and Ravenswood. A short 40km detour off the Flinders Highway, en-route to
Charters Towers, you will find historic Ravenswood.
Charters Towers
Formerly settled for gold mining, this unique heritage listed
Driving through the streets of Charters Towers is like viewing a town looks like a movie set with its beautiful old buildings,
living montage of Australian history and heritage. Gold was first mullock heaps and chimney stacks. The Court House Museum,
discovered in Charters Towers in 1871 by Aboriginal horse boy, the restored School House, Thorp’s Building and Butler’s
Jupiter Mosman. Thousands flocked from across the globe in a Cottage are just some of the treasures visitors can discover.
mad rush to the town, once the second largest in Queensland.
The town was believed to have everything a civilised person Take a self-guided walk to visit them all or climb to the top of
could want and soon became known as ‘The World’. 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
The magnificent heritage buildings are testament to the Conservation Park to admire the unusual geological formation
prosperity of the era. The heritage listed Stock Exchange of a unique white quartz outcrop dating back 300 million years.
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.You can also read
