Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive
2019 Events and Insider Guide
Whether it's on the beach, the stage, or field, be prepared to experience world-class events in spectacular settings. View or download your 2019 Events and Insider Guide to start planning your perfect holiday to Townsville North Queensland.
Events
10th December 2018 to 20th December 2019
Volunteering and Tourism in Townsville
Make your travels a memorable experience by joining Conservation Volunteers Australia in Townsville for a day or two of volunteering on outdoor conservation projects. You will get to experience Townsville's nature and outdoors from a different perspective while helping with activities such as macroinvertebrate surveys, water quality monitoring, weed removal, beach clean ups and native plant propagation.
6th April 2019 to 10th November 2019
Natural Curiosity: Discovering the secrets of Queensland's Greatest Collections
An exhibition created by the Museum of Tropical Queensland. We are all curious about the natural world. We are intrigued by how things began, what they are like now and how they will be in the future. Venture across land and sea, over millions of years through Queensland’s State Collection to learn how researchers today work with the past to predict the future. From discovering new animal species, to understanding the effects of climate change, this vast collection of over a million specimens holds the secrets of Queensland’s natural heritage.
29th June 2019 to 14th July 2019
Excavated School Holiday Program
Discover archaeology and adventure at the Museum these holidays! Have loads of fun as you work through the interactive Field School to complete your Junior Archaeologist passport and explore how scientists link their discoveries to people, stories and moments. Participate in a range of hands on activities that include excavation, identification, stratigraphy, classification and conservation. For the full program of activities and events please visit the Museum website.
29th June 2019 to 30th June 2019
Adventurethon Townsville
In line with popular demand, Townsville returns to the standard Adventurethon Format again. Gear up for a full on, three discipline, race to test your stamina on the waters and tracks around Pallarenda. Not just an event for the elite athletes, Adventurethon also caters to the whole family from juniors to first-time adults and those seeking a bit more of a challenge. Paddle, run and ride courses are designed to provide you with the best experiences of the location and to throw in a little adventure
29th June 2019 to 30th June 2019
Neck of the Woods Music Festival
Neck of the Woods Music Festival is a local music and lifestyle festival set in a family friendly environment on a property in the suburb of Pinnacles, 30 minutes from the Townsville central business district. Neck of the Woods celebrates the local music scene, hosting 20 musical acts over two days, including a selection of North Queensland’s best original artists and some of Australia’s up and coming spotlight touring acts. The festival will feature two nights of onsite camping, BYO, lifestyle activities such as yoga workshops, art installations, an interactive children’s area and a festival marketplace showcasing some of Townsville’s best street food and artisan market stalls.
30th June 2019 to 2nd July 2019
U18 State Hockey Championships 2019 - Men
Hundreds of athletes and their supporters from all across Queensland will converge in Townsville for the U18 State Hockey Championships. Spectators are welcome to come along and see the best Under 18 hockey players from across Queensland battle it out everyday. Thanks to Townsville Enterprise and Townsville City Council for their support of the event.
1st July 2019
Vivaldi Mozart Saint-Saens - Townsville
Don't miss this rare opportunity to experience one of Germany's finest Ensembles Chamber Philharmonia Cologne Germany performing classics from Germany. The diverse program ranges from Antonio Vivaldi and his tremendously famous "La Tempesta de Mare" to W.A. Mozart, Niccolo Paganini and Camille Saint-Saens Book at Ticketmaster or outlets.
1st July 2019 to 31st August 2019
The North Australian Festival of Arts
Townsville will play host to the inaugural North Australian Festival of Arts. The event will solidify their city as a world class tourism and events destination. With a month-long lineup featuring Cabaret acts in the Spiegeltent and Strand Ephemera along the Strand, the Australian Festival of Chamber music in Queens Gardens and an array of local and national talent featured throughout. The city will be abuzz over the festival thanks to the accompanying Northern Fringe festival with acts scattered throughout the city.
4th July 2019 to 14th July 2019
Bernie Dieter's Little Death Club
The darkest, funniest and most debauched kabarett club this side of Berlin! Hosted by the deliciously salacious, utterly hilarious, über-award-winning Queen of Weimar punk Kabarett, Bernie Dieter. Fresh from a smash hit Edinburgh Festival run, join Bernie and her international family of circus superstars for a hazy night of dangerously funny kabarett, breathtaking circus and fire-breathing sideshow at its most inappropriate, provocative and hilarious best.
4th July 2019 to 14th July 2019
Circus Wonderland - A Mermaid's Tale
This performance is part of the Northern Fringe Festival Rouge is a decadent blend of sensational acrobatics, operatic cabaret and tongue in cheek burlesque. This is a non-stop celebration of the astonishing, the surprising and the downright sexy, Rouge is circus for grownups. Escape the everyday and join Rouge for the most twisted and ridiculous experience you’ll have this year.
5th July 2019
Akmal - Open for Renovations
Have you always wanted a perfect body, with rock hard abs and buns of steel without ever getting out of bed? Imagine having enough confidence to get out of your car during a road rage incident that wasn’t your fault, instead of apologising and cowardly driving off as quickly as you can. If you have ever wanted to be so financially wealthy that you could pay Rupert Murdoch to drop his pants and perform a silly dance while singing in a high pitch voice, just for a laugh. Well in this one-hour show, Akmal will be asking the audience if they know how he can achieve these things. A life changing experience or your money back.
5th July 2019 to 7th July 2019
Supercars Watpac Townsville 400
Soak up the colour and atmosphere of North Queensland’s largest annual sporting event at the 2019 Watpac Townsville 400, 5 to 7 July. The rivalry between Supercars teams has never been more intense, and at the halfway point in the Championship the racing is sure to be fierce including a stellar line up of support categories that will round out the on-track action. With a host of family entertainment both on and off the track, and free Trackside admission for kids 12 and under, you can bring the whole crew. Tickets at Ticketek.
6th July 2019 to 13th July 2019
Debauched - Late Night Burlesque
A tantalising party in paradise where the hottest burlesque, cabaret and stage stars go to get a little loose after working their glamour all over town. It’s seductively sophisticated, deliciously debauched, scandalously sexy and wildly unpredictable! Get ready for an evening of jaw dropping late night spectacle by multi award-winning cabaret and burlesque stars on a mission to conquer the world, bringing their A-game side show of the beautiful and bizarre.
6th July 2019
Style Over Speed Black Tie Bike Ride
Riding your bike is an ad for cycling…so do it in style! Style Over Speed is a traffic-stopping black-tie affair. Over 80 cyclists parade through town along The Strand, out to the casino and back finishing with live music, a bar and a fashion parade by participants with their bikes. Have fun and get dressed up in your fanciest formal gear, match your handbag or manbag to your bicycle and come along! The ride is designed to encourage spectators to smile and cheer at their display because cycling is something to celebrate.
19th July 2019 to 27th July 2019
Rouge the Show
Rouge is a decadent blend of sensational acrobatics, operatic cabaret and tongue in cheek burlesque. This is a non-stop celebration of the astonishing, the surprising and the downright sexy, Rouge is circus for grownups. Escape the everyday and join Rouge for the most twisted and ridiculous experience you’ll have this year. This performance is part of the Northern Fringe Festival
19th July 2019 to 20th July 2019
Wolfgang's Magical Musical Circus
Straight from the score and onto the stage, the man known as Mozart appears amid a storm of powder, tumbling and twirling, as musical mayhem and movement fuse in this family show with a circus twist. To those who know him, he is Wolfgang, the dart-playing, pun-loving ratbag. To those who are watching and listening, he is the wigged genius Mozart. Come and discover his irrepressible spirit and vibrant compositions through physical comedy and mischievous antics. Designed to amaze people from the age of three and upwards, Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus reinvents the composer’s magical music in a skillful and illuminating show featuring Circa’s dexterous daredevil artists and a live accordionist. Watch as the notes are physically lifted off the page as performers bring the renowned compositions to life amidst a storm of powder, tumbles and crashes, all under the eccentric swirl of the conductor’s baton. *2019 TicketShop Member Discount Available*
26th July 2019 to 4th August 2019
Strand Ephemera
Strand Ephemera – the North’s Sculpture Festival held biennially is Townsville’s highly anticipated outdoor sculpture exhibition of state and national significance. This event was established by Townsville City Council to provide regional artists an opportunity to showcase their talent within a national arena, with a focus on works being ‘ephemeral’ for the short-lived exhibition of around 10 days encouraged artists to use inexpensive materials. In 2017 Strand Ephemera reached new heights attracting over 155,704 visitors during the 10 day display period. The exhibition was supported by a multitude of engaging public programs, and featured a selection of curated works alongside those competing for the major AUD10,000 prize.
26th July 2019 to 4th August 2019
Australian Festival of Chamber Music
The Australian Festival of Chamber Music presents the finest musicians from around the world in a wonderfully unique and innovative ten day program of 30 concerts set in the tropical winter warmth of Townsville, North Queensland. The Festival has been delighting audiences for almost 30 years and has earned an international reputation for the quality of its programming and performances along with its friendly, intimate and relaxed atmosphere. More than 40 musicians from all around the world travel to Townsville to perform in world exclusive combinations. There is truly nothing else like it in the world - the unique combination of music, winter warmth and tropical location create a special atmosphere that entices audiences and artists back year after year.
28th July 2019
Help is on its Way - Townsville
Join them in song to support positive men's mental health. This July, Australian rock legend Glenn Shorrock and his band will be touring regional Queensland towns including Chinchilla, Moranbah, Barcaldine, Hughenden, Birdsville, Townsville, Cunnamulla and Beaudesert. Help is on its Way is a national choral initiative fostering a dialogue around men’s positive mental health. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body.
2nd August 2019
Fiona O'Loughlin
Part of the Northern Fringe Festival. Comedy Royalty, Fiona O’Loughlin is one of the most in demand comedians in this country. A late starter with an award winning career of almost 25 years, Fiona performs to packed houses in venues and festivals across the globe. Winner of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s (MICF) Best Newcomer Award in 2001, Fiona’s career has gone from strength to strength ever since. In 2006 she took home the coveted MICF Piece of Wood, an award for funniest show as voted for by other comedians. Fiona has also taken her unique story-based comedy to LA headlining the world-renowned Improv Comedy Club. In addition to repeat seasons in Hong Kong, performing at Edinburgh Fringe (the world’s largest Arts Festival) Montreal’s prestigious invitation-only Just For Laughs Comedy Festival and the UK’s oldest, Leicester Comedy Festival. As well as a critically acclaimed stand-up comedian, Fiona is an accomplished Writer, Television presenter, Corporate Host, Speaker and Media Personality.
2nd August 2019 to 11th August 2019
Pop Up North Queensland
Pop Up North Queensland (PUNQ) is an exciting arts festival, taking place throughout various locations in the Townsville Central Business District. Designed to occupy empty spaces and breathe new life into the city with creative activity, Umbrella is proud to present more than 30 pop-up art spaces over 10 days. Each space will be run by artists and feature a vibrant array of workshops, performance and exhibitions. Offerings include pottery/ceramics, fashion, painting, drawing, music, photography, music, digital projection, large-scale installations, jewellery, textiles, printmaking and puppetry. There will be something for everyone! Come and learn something new, be entertained and purchase beautiful artisan objects. This festival is supported by the Townsville City Council under the Community Grants Program.
4th August 2019
McDonalds Townsville Running Festival
In a setting that sees the sunrise over Magnetic Island, the majestic coral sea, the sunset behind the iconic granite of Castle hill, they have picture perfect prime real estate to bring you a Running Festival that stands like no other. The Townsville Marathon was started by a group of hardcore enthusiasts in 1972, who founded the “Townsville Marathon Club”. The name was a little exclusive and elitist so they toned it down somewhat to become “The Townsville Road Runners” which we all know and love today. In 1999, Townsville Road Runners aimed to raise the profile of running in the region by stepping into the unknown and hosting one of the countries first Running Festivals. The event has evolved into the premier and largest regional marathon in the state today. It is a regional event, with its own vibe, feel and unique welcoming allure, yet the certified racecourses, new race HQ at Jezzine Barracks and professionalism of the event coordinators bring a product on par, if not raising the bar, for major national events and a definite appeal for “race-chasers” and race hardened running purists alike. They are not just a run. They are an experience.
5th August 2019
Townsville Careers Expo 2019
The 15th Annual Townsville Careers Expo presents an ideal opportunity for anyone interested in education and training or those seeking professional career development and employment opportunities. With exhibitors including Universities, private education providers, TAFE institutes, graduate employment, Defence Force recruiting, student support services and employers, the Expo provide a unique opportunity to find everything related to education and employment, under one roof. Visitors have the chance to win multiple prizes! For more information on the Expo, please visit the website and click on the Townsville Tab, or visit the Facebook page. The expo is on Monday August 5, 2019 from 10am to 1.30pm and 4pm to 7pm. Admission is free!
16th August 2019 to 25th August 2019
Intersport Townsville Triathlon and Multisport Festival
Introducing the brand new Intersport Townsville Triathlon Festival Multisport Event. The TTF is entering its 17th year and is established as a significant race on the National Triathlon circuit as a World Age Group Qualifying Olympic Distance event. The Festival will host the Triathlon Queensland Club Championships North Queensland. The Townsville Triathlon Festival is the “Big Weekend” - a weekend of racing, fun and a full festival atmosphere with an array of events and activities to take part in across one massive weekend. Triathlon is one of the world’s fastest growing sports. Multisport events (Aquathon, Duathlon and Cross Tri) are set to be added to 2019 event schedule. The Festival will also offer dinner competitors entertainment options including the opening night ‘With The Stars’ dinner, the option to go to the North Queensland Cowboys home game on the Saturday night, and post event get together on the Sunday afternoon, as part of the “Big Weekend”.
16th August 2019 to 18th August 2019
Townsville Cultural Fest
This year the Townsville Cultural Fest celebrates its 25th anniversary; a quarter of a century of developing community spirit through dance, music, food and fun. A quarter of a century of celebrating diversity, and promoting acceptance and understanding in regional Queensland. In that time, they’ve engaged with more than 200 communities and groups, and brought together thousands of people from a range of diverse backgrounds. The festival has truly been a life-changing phenomenon for so many. Such an incredible achievement calls for a grand community celebration and they plan to do that in style. But they also believe it’s time to share the story of this journey internationally; time to show the rest of the world what 25 years of commitment to peace and harmony looks like. That’s why the theme for the 25th anniversary will be “Unity In Diversity.” In the last 25 years, the Townsville Cultural Fest has helped raise two generations of young people who understand the concept of Unity In Diversity and the need for harmony and community cohesion. Given the many issues facing the world today, this achievement is fundamental to the future stability and sustainability of this region, this country and the global community.
19th August 2019
Spencer
A brand new comedy-drama looking at a gloriously dysfunctional Australian family, this is modern story telling at its best! Told over the course of one weekend in a suburban Australian family home, Spencer tells the story of a tight-knit family led by single-mum matriarch Marilyn and her three adult children – wayward daughter Jules, mouthy coulda- been Ben and AFL golden-boy Scott. About to meet the young son – Spencer – he never knew he had, Scott and the family have returned home to help mark the occasion. With the surprise appearance of Ian, the father they barely remember, the entire family is forced to work together to clean up both the house and their own fractured relationships as the clock ticks down to Spencer’s arrival. *2019 TicketShop Member Discount Available*
20th August 2019
Seniors Lifestyle Expo 2019
Held as part of National Seniors Week, the annual Seniors Lifestyle Expo provides seniors access to information and services available to them. Don't miss over 100 displays and live entertainment including talks, demonstrations and music.
25th August 2019
Beef and Barossa Festival
The popular Beef and Barossa Food and Wine Festival is back for another year! With more than 80 cellar doors and 150 wineries, Barossa Valley in South Australia has much to choose from. They’ve selected the best wines - and beers - for you, and matched them with a menu just as indulgent. Find out why Barossa Valley is one of Australia’s premier food, wine and beer regions. Let them bring the rich flavours of the Barossa to you. Join them riverside in the city for food, wine, beer and live entertainment.
25th August 2019
Ride for Road Safety in memory of Sue Bell and Jeff Ashby
Over 200 people ride 18 kilometres, (or the four kilometre option leaving from the Bicycle Pedlar), through the main streets of Townsville with a green wave through all lights thanks to Transport Main Roads. In a spectacular show of symbolism all wear red Operating hats supplied by Queensland Health over their helmets. The Townsville BUG runs The Ride for Road Safety annually in order to highlight the need to improve conditions for cycling in order to get more people riding as part of their everyday. The event began in 2013 as the Sue Bell Memorial ride. With blessing of her family and of Jeff Ashby's, the annual event is designed to attract attention of politicians, the media and the general community. Mrs Bell’s death and the community’s response to it contributed towards the push for the introduction of the laws to protect cyclists where motorists are now required to give at least a metre distance when passing cyclists, and a metre-and-a-half where the speed limit is higher than 60 kilometres per hour. By being part of this ride you are making the impact needed to sustain the push for safer conditions conducive to increased cycling.
25th August 2019
Cape Pallarenda Trail Run 2019
Their signature event in the Outer Limits Trail Run Series. So close to home and taking in some of the best trails in Townsville with stunning views onto Magnetic Island. The event offers a distance for everyone, a five kilometre course for the kids or first timers, 12 kilometres for the runners who are craving more, 21 kilometres- the half marathon distance and of course, Townsville's only full trail marathon, 42 kilometres. Join them for a great day out on the trails.
25th August 2019
Ride for Road Safety
Over 200 people ride 18 kilometres (or four kilometre option leaving from the Bicycle Pedlar) through the main streets of Townsville with a green wave through all lights. In 2013 two cyclists where injured and Sue Bell killed when a truck driver attempted to overtake a group of cyclists on Shaw Road. This incident galvanised the Townsville community in the call for safer roads. Mrs Bell’s death and the community’s response to it contributed towards the push for the introduction of the laws to protect cyclists where motorists are now required to give at least a metre distance when passing cyclists, and a metre-and-a-half where the speed limit is higher than 60 kilometres per hour. in 2016 Jeff Ashby was killed by a B double. More needs to be done to improve conditions both in road design and consideration and courtesy given on the roads and by being part of this ride you are making the impact needed to sustain the push for safer conditions. Become a member of the BUG and join the ride. Please register to order your shirts.
29th August 2019 to 4th September 2019
SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week
Bringing together the excitement of competitive sailing and community events, along with the ambience of Magnetic Island each August/September, SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week offers an experience to remember. With top notch racing, live bands and partying galore, the shore side program of this annual regatta is sure to leave you wanting more year after year. You don't need to be a competitive sailor to participate in this great event, there is something available for everyone whether it be jumping onboard the a racing yacht or partying after dark with the crews at one of the social functions.
30th August 2019 to 1st September 2019
Townsville Expo 2019
The 2019 Townsville Expo is the region’s largest outdoor adventure, home and lifestyle event, with well over 100 local and national companies on show. This is your opportunity to view and compare the very latest caravans and campers, 4x4's, vehicles, boats, accessories and more, all in the one convenient location. Plus discover dozens of home and lifestyle companies and uncover new holiday destinations! This event has something for everyone, from jumping castles and wildlife shows for the little kids through to luxury vans, 4x4's and camp oven cooking demonstrations for the big kids. Bring the whole family and discover a world of adventure at the Expo, August 30 to September 1, Reid Park Townsville. Friday 8.30am to 4pm. Saturday 8.30am to 5pm. Sunday 8.30am to 4pm.
31st August 2019
Crusty Demons: Rise of the Demons World Tour - Townsville
The Crusty Demons of Dirt are back and bigger than ever in 2019! They are bringing back some of your favourite Crusty Demon OG's along with some new blood that will go bigger, faster, higher, and more insane than before. Dirt bikes, new tricks, Crusty babes, carnage, along with an incredible production, all set for one hell of a show. This tour is not something you’re going to want to miss.
5th September 2019 to 11th September 2019
Revolutionising Turtle Health on the Reef
Human activities are putting sea turtles in danger. Work with Earthwatch Scientists to assess sea turtle health and collect crucial data to support better management strategies to conserve these wondrous creatures. Australia is home to six of the world’s seven marine turtle species including green, hawksbill, leatherback, loggerhead, olive ridley, and the flatback turtle. Green sea turtles are internationally listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Even though green turtles are the most abundant in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and are protected inside this World Heritage Area, they are still greatly impacted by pollution, mining and tourism. Assessing the health of wild animal populations has proven challenging for many marine species; and without information on the ability of a population to survive and produce offspring, management plans and actions to protect populations at risk are hindered. Earthwatch scientists are testing a novel, minimally-invasive, user-friendly method to assess the health of turtles in the wild, where more specific technical equipment is not yet available. During the week you spend with us, you will not only learn everything about green sea turtle biology, conservation, and health issues, but you will experience first-hand what you can do to protect this endangered species.
14th September 2019
Audi Centre Townsville ICN Nth Qld Championships
The Tropix is the largest regional fitness show in the country and continues to deliver the ultimate fitness experience to Townsville and surrounds. This event is the showcase of models, bikini divas, fitness models and body builders with something for the whole family of all ages. Now averaging over 350 entrants year on year the inspiration provided by this event is one you need to see. Situated in the iconic Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre the venue truly lends itself to showcasing the Townsville Region. With the beautiful winter escape weather there is no better place to come and visit then Townsville, North Queensland in April.
21st September 2019
The Great Island Trek
An awesome adventure with spectacular scenery. Trek, walk or run across Magnetic Island and see secluded bays, spot koalas in the wild, keep at eye out for sea turtles and discover the hidden gem that is Magnetic Island.
22nd September 2019
A Touch of New Zealand Festival
The food and wine from New Zealand is taking the world by storm and A Touch of Salt will be showcasing some of the best from the land of the long white cloud. Join them to experience A Touch of New Zealand in all forms of entertainment, food and wine.
5th October 2019 to 6th October 2019
Swan Lake – Imperial Russian Ballet Company - Townsville
The Imperial Russian Ballet Company return to Australia with Swan Lake...the most loved classical ballet of them all. This masterpiece ballet is presented in two acts and follows the original storyline. Subtle revisions and variations have been introduced by Gediminas Taranda, Artistic Director of the Imperial Russian Ballet Company. Swan Lake crosses the world of magic and mystical creatures with that of the real world. It is a story where the virtues of love and forgiveness in the end conquer evil and betrayal. The Imperial Russian Ballet Company was formed in 1994, headed by the Bolshoi Theatre soloist Gediminas Taranda. The Imperial Russian Ballet Company comprises 40 dancers from the major ballet schools of Russia.
5th October 2019
Dance Tropics Dance!
Dancenorth, 1RAR and Otto’s join forces once again to present… Dance Tropics Dance! One part mini festival… one part dance show… all parts fun and participatory! Featuring all of your live toe tapping favourites from the incredible 1RAR band...this is Townsville’s newest dance party under the stars! Bring your loved ones, your hot date, your squad! This is an all ages events so make sure you join them for this magical evening! No dance experience necessary and family friendly. All proceeds from this event go towards locals charities.
6th October 2019
Magnetic Island Triathlon 2019
North Queensland's own tropical destination adventure island brings you a great Sprint Triathlon - last year was a sell out - so don't leave it too late to swim on one of the best kept secrets which is Magnetic Island and one of the best destinations for this spectacular Triathlon.
9th October 2019
Morning Melodies - The Beggars
The Beggars are Renee Donaghey, Stuart Day and Quinton Dunne, their sound is often compared to legendary Australian Vocal group The Seekers. Since forming in 2006 The Beggars have made multiple Australian and International tours, topped the European country music charts and made over 150 appearances on the iTunes music charts.
23rd October 2019
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
Melbourne City Ballet will recreate the cherished story of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz for audiences across Australia in 2019. The dancers will click their heels together and get a little bit wicked as they follow the classic tale of Dorothy Gale, a young country girl who is swept away to the magical world of Oz. Full of enchanting characters, some friendly and some truly wicked! The Wonderful Wizard of Oz will be imaginatively brought to life in this brand new production for Melbourne City Ballet. With stunning new sets and costumes and the company’s largest ensemble to date, this brand new ballet proves there is no place like home, and will be and enchanting event suitable for the whole family.
14th November 2019 to 17th November 2019
4 Day 3 Night Coral Spawning Liveaboard
Coral spawning is a major event on the Great Barrier Reef calendar and occurs in November every year. In other parts of the ocean only a couple of colonies may spawn, but in Townsville they have 12 families of coral that are of the spawning variety. Up to 88 per cent of the coral may spawn during this event! For an ocean lover, there are few experiences more festive than watching the reef’s Big Bang. The Great Barrier Reef coral spawning has been likened to being in a snowstorm underwater! Immerse yourself as the future reef snows upwards towards the surface in a pink and white flurry, brushing your face and fingertips on their way. It is a magical, slightly disorientating once-in-a-lifetime experience on many divers’ bucket list. Snorkellers and divers are welcome. Guests will spend the day snorkelling and diving the reef and familiarising themselves with the reef. When the sun sets and the coral starts spawning divers will jump and an be in the thick of it all!
15th November 2019 to 16th November 2019
PBR Australia Grand Finals
Welcome to the roller coaster world of the adrenalin cowboy as they take on the nation’s most extreme bucking bulls in a three-hour action packed event that will keep you on the edge of your seat from the first bull of the night through to the last. This is the final and deciding chapter of the PBR year-long race for National Titles. It’s a showdown like no other – 22 riders all eager for glory as they strive to overcome the power of the most extreme bucking bulls in a head to head battle of power, agility and the fight of the fittest eight seconds at a time over the course of two nights of competition. Choreographed with pyrotechnics, lasers, concert sound system and mega screen replays, with multiple camera angles that will take you behind the scenes and inside the bucking chutes as riders prepare for the ride of their life whilst delivering you the ultimate live event bull riding experience inside the Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre. This is an event not to be missed. This is the one and only PBR National Finals.
20th November 2019
Morning Melodies - Christmas with Karen Knowles
Karen Knowles, one of Australia's favourite singers, will return to Townsville for a special Christmas concert on 20 November 2019. Well known for her Carols and Christmas repertoire and regular performances as part of the Lord Mayors Carols broadcast throughout Queensland on Channel 7, Karen will perform with her musical director.
22nd November 2019
Dylan Moran - Townsville
Legendary Irish comedian Dylan Moran is returning to Australia with a brand-new show Dr. Cosmos. Moran will once again offer his unique take on love, politics, misery and the everyday absurdities of life, all served with poetical panache from one of the finest comedians of his generation. Moran has been called the Oscar Wilde of comedy and his famed style - deadpan, witty and crackpot lyricism - promises to be an unmissable journey through his interpretations of the world, swerving cliche to offer a cutting blow to our idiosyncrasies.
18th December 2019 to 22nd December 2019
Stable on the Strand
Townsville's Christmas Festival, Stable on the Strand, celebrates its 18th birthday in 2019 at Townsville's premier event location, Strand Park. Stable on the Strand is one of Australia's most spectacular Christmas events, delighting crowds of 40,000 people over five nights as Christmas is shared with story, song and festivity. Stable on the Strand will feature the Town of Bethlehem: the story of the birth of Jesus told interactively using live actors as wise men, shepherds, Roman soldiers, King Herod, and of course Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus; camels, chickens, goats, sheep, and a donkey for children to pat; huge carousel in the Stable Village; fabulous youth program; great children's activities; amazing entertainment on the Main Stage with local and guest artists; hospitality areas: enjoy the ambiance of Stable on the Strand while enjoying free tea, coffee and Christmas Cake. Entry is free!
29th February 2020
Elton John at North Qld Stadium - Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour
After more than half a century on the road and an unparalleled career, superstar icon Sir Elton John will perform his last ever Australian and New Zealand shows as part of the global Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour. Beginning in Pennsylvania, USA in September 2018, Elton John’s three-year Farewell Yellow Brick Road global tour has already been hailed as energetic, dazzlingly-original, bombastic, and a musical masterpiece. The milestone itinerary comprises more than 300 shows across five continents, stopping off in Australia 2019/20 for record-breaking shows. Elton’s legendary catalogue, including beloved songs such as “Bennie and the Jets”, “Rocket Man”, “Tiny Dancer”, “Crocodile Rock”, “Philadelphia Freedom” and more, are showcased in this musical masterpiece – a reflection of his great career, and 51 year collaboration with lyricist Bernie Taupin. “I always love coming back to Australia. Ever since my first visit in 1971 it has held a very special place in my heart.” More than a concert; an unforgettable memory. Tickets will sell fast, so don’t miss your chance to say farewell to music’s greatest treasure.
10th April 2020 to 13th April 2020
2020 Townsville North Queensland Games
The North Queensland Games is the largest multi-sport event in regional Australia. The NQ Games is held biennial and shared between Mackay, Townsville and Cairns. The 2020 NQ Games will be staged in Townsville and surrounding regions and will be the 19th Games. There will be over 30 sports to choose from with an estimated 4000 plus participants to be involved. The 2020 Townsville NQ Games is an action packed weekend commencing with the official opening ceremony to be held on Thursday 9 April 2020. Athletes, supporters and officials participating in the games can enjoy one of the most picturesque coastal cities in northeastern Queensland, Australia. The Strand esplanade, with its pier and water park, is popular. The Reef HQ Aquarium has marine life and coral from the Great Barrier Reef, plus a sea turtle hospital. Southeast of the city, the Billabong Sanctuary wildlife park is home to koalas, wombats and crocodiles. Offshore, Magnetic Island has coral reefs and a national park full of wildlife.