The Burdekin is the sweetest region in our patch… literally! It’s the sugar cane capital of Australia but we think it has some awesome things for families to do that make it pretty sweet too.

With another school holiday just around the corner, now is the perfect time for families to explore the wonders of Townsville North Queensland. This September, we've launched a special “Get Snappy” school holiday photo scavenger hunt, giving families hints on where to visit, and the chance to win a $250 Ultimate Experiences Pass to use on a holiday in Townsville North Queensland.

The Burdekin is the sweetest region in our patch… literally! It’s the sugar cane capital of Australia but we think it has some awesome things for families to do that make it pretty sweet too.

1. Get a blast from the past at the Drive-In Theatre

You might remember the days of the drive-in, but your kids don’t! Let them experience the movies under the stars, from the comfort of your car at Stardust Drive-In Theatre. And if your kids are young and can’t hack it staying up late the venue has an air-conditioned movie theatre for the day too.

Don’t forget to snap a picture and hashtag #townsvilleshines and #getsnappynq to be involved in our competition.

2. Plan a MINT morning hike at the Mount Inkerman Nature Trail

Explore the Burdekin’s native bushland with a beautiful half an hour walk through the Mount Inkerman Nature Trail and trust us, the view is totally worth it at the top! Just a short drive from Home Hill the winding trails give a great birds eye view over the Burdekin, see the region’s rolling cane fields at different stages of the harvest.

3. Take the kids to a playground they won’t stop talking about

You’ll lose track of the hours at Plantation Park in Ayr. The epic Nature Play playground will keep the kids entertained with its swings, slides and 60-metre-long carpet snake ‘Gubulla Munda’. There’s a café inside the park to top off a morning with the family or take your own picnic and find a shady spot among the trees.

4. Visit the Burdekin’s treasure trove of creepy crawlies

Does your child love insects and bugs? Feed their fascination at the Ayr Nature Display. A collection of thousands of preserved insects completely covers the walls and ceiling and for just a gold coin you can spend as long as you like learning about all the different species of butterflies, moths, crabs, and fossils.