Adventure & Outdoors
Hinchinbrook Adventures
Hinchinbrook Adventures provides aerial scenic tours of the Hinchinbrook region. Their scenic tours showcase the regions natural beauty and offers their clients a chance to view all of the natural wonders in a timely and exciting way. They also offer a Helifishing tour into the remote and untouched wilderness of the Herbert River Gorge. This experience is unique to their company and immerses the client into this special location offering a very unique fishing experience. Hinchinbrook Adventures also operate a Mother ship fishing charter that operates in the magnificent Hinchinbrook Channel fishery. This fishing mecca is renowned for its many species of prized fish. This charter is an awesome way of accessing its many and varied fishing locations.
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Pleasure Divers Magnetic Island
Pleasure Divers Magnetic Island is Magnetic Island's longest running PADI and SSI dive center, offering courses and tours from beginner to professional. Pleasure Divers has been in operation for over 20 years. Located on the picturesque Geoffrey Bay foreshore it is your one stop shop for all your snorkelling and diving needs. With great access to the island's best shore dives including the Moltke Shipwreck and offering trips to the outer Great Barrier Reef as well as the world famous SS Yongala shipwreck. Boasting the only purpose built dive training pool on Magnetic Island, easy access dive sites and world class instructors, Pleasure Divers Magnetic Island is a great place to learn to dive, improve your skills or become a dive professional. Magnetic Island's one stop shop for all your snorkelling and diving needs including equipment hire and servicing, snorkel hire for half day, full day or multiple days with family and student discounts.
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Townsville Helicopters
Townsville Helicopters provides a range of helicopter services including scenic flights, customised charter and island transfers from Townsville Airport. Aside from Townsville itself, popular destinations for sight seeing and charter are Magnetic Island, The Great Barrier Reef, Hinchinbrook Island and Wallaman Falls; however the choice of destination is almost limitless.
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Pilgrim Sailing - Magnetic Island
Pilgrim Sailing is one of Magnetic Island's premium experiences provider offering exclusive sailing cruises on a luxury 58-foot yacht. Step on board and forget about the real world for a while. As the yacht sails peacefully along, you soak in the views of the stunning Magnetic Island coastline and enjoy some delicious local food and wine.
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Aquascene Magnetic Island
One of Queensland's Signature Tour Experiences, multi award-winning Aquascene are renowned for their exceptional tour experiences. Discover special places you won't find on your own and create connections with real people and special places as family owned Aquascene share with you this beautiful Island they have called their home for over 35 years. They offer their guests fun, personalised and informative tours exploring the iconic beauty of Magnetic Island.....suitable for absolutely everyone! Discover secluded beaches and bays, snorkel fringing coral reefs and meet some local wildlife, above and below the water. Benefit from expert tuition for snorkelling in a safe and comfortable environment from people who understand individual needs. Your hosts are qualified patrolling lifeguards. Learn about the World Heritage Great Barrier Reef with a "Master Reef Guide". Aquascene's custom designed boat provides plenty of shade and comfort, easy access stairs in and out of the water and a toilet/change room. Suitable for guests who may have mobility challenges. There are no long travel times, just plenty of fun and relaxation. From the moment you arrive, to the moment you leave you will be looked after by the friendly caring team that Aquascene are renowned for.
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Big Mama Sailing
Big Mama Sailing is owned and operated by a small family (Stu, Lisa, Fletcher and boat dog Coco). They offer a personalised and memorable sailing experience for up to 12 guests maximum. They are based in Horseshoe Bay, Magnetic Island but are happy to pick up and drop off at Breakwater Marina, Townsville for private charters and group bookings of six or more guests. Bring your own alcohol is welcome. Big Mama is a beautiful and well maintained Adams Ketch. They live on board, so they are welcoming you into their home. Big Mama has plenty of deck space to relax in a bean bag, a comfortable inside saloon area or join in the fun and action of sailing and other water activities. All meals and food are freshly prepared on board and are delicious, wholesome and plentiful. Big Mama is an unforgettable experience.
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Northern Conquest Charters.
Northern Conquest Charters (NCC) is a Cairns and Townsville based marine tourism operation that caters for all types of fishing experiences. Whether it be trolling the outer reef for dogtooth tuna, casting a popper at giant trevally, enticing a coral trout with a soft plastic or some old fashioned bottom bashing, Northern Conquest Charters staff have the skills to both find the fish and instruct you with these and many other techniques. Other tours include reef and estuary where we take our clients north to the fabulous Palm Island group, plus the Hinchinbrook channel for Barramundi, Mangrove Jacks and Mud Crabs. Included in our extended tours are trips to the Coral Sea, The Iconic Ribbons and Princess Charlotte Bay for extreme sport fishing adventures. Northern Conquest Charters can also diversify, doing shore stopovers at Yanks Landing on Orpheus Island and snorkellng opportunities on the Great Barrier Reef to break up the trip. Spear fishing is also catered for. They are a family owned business who pride ourselves on delivering an incomparable experience to the fishing enthusiast. They operate fishing charters from 1 day to 11 day trips, tailor made for our clients expectations with an emphasis on total commitment to making their experience truly memorable.
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Yongala Dive
Yongala Dive is a PADI Dive Resort offering a full range of Dive Courses, Dive Accommodation and Day Trips to one of the world's top dive sites- the historic S.S. Yongala Wreck. In 1911 it sank without trace in a tragic cyclonic event. All 122 people on board died and a legend was born. It would be another 50 years before the coral encrusted structure was found and today it is one of the world's most renowned dive sites and an adventure from start to finish. Departing daily from the sleepy village of Alva Beach, only 16 kilometres from Ayr and 90 minutes drive south of Townsville, Yongala Dive will take you on an unique adventure - premier diving with a maximum of 12 people, experienced dive staff, a four wheel drive transfer to the beach and a boat launch by tractor - getting there is half the adventure! To extend your adventure, why not stay a little while longer in their on-site 'Dive Accommodation' just a stones throw from the beach, or join one of the many training courses to further enhance your dive qualifications.
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NQ Cycle Journeys
NQ Cycle Journeys provides bike hire and self-guided and guided tour options in the Townsville region of North Queensland. We have quality, comfortable e-bikes, multi-terrain bikes, mountain bikes, kids bikes and accessories to cater for all ages. Customised tours and group events can be organised, including bike treasure hunts/amazing race type activities or themed tours. All rentals include helmet, lock, pump, spare tube kit, map and water bottle holder. All bikes are professionally serviced after each ride and we will fit you to the bike that suits you.
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Magnetic Island Sea Kayaks
Magnetic Island Sea Kayaks is an eco-friendly way to explore Magnetic Island up close and enjoy our beautiful island paradise. Magnetic Island Sea Kayaks two hour sunset kayaking adventure is great for paddlers that want to beat the heat, spotting turtles around the coral beds in Whitelady bay. A popular tour for paddlers of all fitness levels and we explore many locations that are only accessible by water! Their half-day morning tour is for the more adventurous with the tour taking you around the northern tip of the island to discover the rugged beauty of the coastline in Magnetic Island’s World Heritage National and Marine Park. Free photography is also provided on the tour and is sent to all guests at the end of the paddle.
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North Queensland Tours - World Heritage Rainforest
Join Award-Winning Local Tour Guides on Townsville's Ultimate Rainforest Experience, providing small personalised day tours in a luxury seven-seater 4WD. Discover this beautiful World Heritage Rainforest region as family-owned North Queensland Tours take you on a journey to embrace the natural beauty and forget about the world around you. Learn about the World Heritage Wet Tropics Rainforest with Wet Tropics Ambassadors. Escape the city and relax in the cool mountain air, taking in the spectacular views.
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Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive
Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive is one of Townsville's longest established dive training and marine tourism operators. They specialise in providing snorkelling and diving trips as well as training of divers as part of a full dive service. Join them today and dive the spectacular SS Yongala Wreck, or snorkel and dive the Great Barrier Reef. The SS Yongala Wreck is one of Australia's best dive sites! The Yongala Wreck is a national historical wreck that lies within Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The wreck begins at 16 metres below the surface and sits on a sandy bottom at 30 metres. The artefacts, marine life and variety of corals that cover the wreck are spectacular. This is a must do dive for all certified divers! Or visit the pristine Lodestone Reef located on the Central Section of the Great Barrier Reef with their friendly and professional crew. Their day trip is a perfect way to enjoy unlimited snorkelling, introductory scuba dives or two certified dives. Both snorkelers and divers will be exhilarated witnessing the spectacular marine life that Lodestone has to offer whilst being immersed in tropical crystal clear water.
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14 Day Dinos, Crocs and Gold
Start your 14 day Dinos, Cros and Gold journey from Townsville. Highlights include fossicking for gold, digging for fossils on The Dinosaur Trail, heading underground at the Hard Times Mine Tour in Mount Isa, meeting the world’s largest ever captured crocodile, spotting freshwater crocodiles on a Cobbold Gorge cruise and walking the path of a volcano at Undara Experience.
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7 Day Dinosaur Trail
Leaving from Townsville, head west to Outback Queensland for a dinosaur adventure! Take a Ghost Walk Tour of Charters Towers, meet ‘Hughie’ the Muttaburrasaurus on The Dinosaur Trail, picnic at Porcupine Gorge National Park, see the marine fossil giants at Kronosaurus Korner, get up close to one of Australia’s vanishing species, visit the birthplace of Waltzing Matilda, tour the Australian Age of Dinosaurs. Try your luck at opal fossicking and climb aboard a Texas Longhorn Wagon Tour.
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Albatross Nq Golf Tours
Unique golf tours playing the best courses the Tropical North Queensland region has to offer. Magical tropical settings, the Great Barrier Reef on your doorstep. The challenging golf courses of Townsville, beautiful lush tropical golf courses of the Cairns region, including championship quality golf courses in Port Douglas. Whatever your budget, long or short stay, single, couple, or group. Albatross Nq Golf Tours are able to deliver the best possible combination of top quality golf courses for all standards of players. For the non-golfer travelling with you, there are plenty of activities available to explore. Check out the Things to do page for some suggestions. To make this golfing tour become a reality, check out the golf course information and packages. They can prepare a custom itinerary for you on confirmation of your golf package.
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Alligator Falls Track, Bowling Green Bay National Park
In the Mount Elliot section of Bowling Green Bay National Park, Alligator Creek flows through the landscape in a series of cascades, deep pools and waterfalls. The Alligator Falls track starts from the southern end of the Alligator Creek day-use area. Stroll the first 500 metres along the track to the Alligator Creek lookout, then continue for another two kilometres to Cockatoo Creek, an ideal place for a rest and a swim. From Cockatoo Creek the track meanders roughly parallel to the creek, following powerlines through open woodland forest to Hidden Valley. An open clearing features towering, old mango trees, one of the only reminders of the homestead that once stood there. After a further two kilometres, the track arrives at a series of steps ascending through a rocky vine-thicket where some boulder-scrambling is required. The track then suddenly emerges at the falls. Access to and above the falls is not provided. On this track visitors must cross the creek on four occasions. These crossings vary in depth from ankle-deep to approximately waist-deep depending on the conditions. Visitors are advised to start walking in the morning to ensure a safe return during daylight hours. Carry water and wear sturdy footwear.
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Australian Institute of Marine Science
The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) is Australia’s tropical marine research agency. AIMS plays a pivotal role in providing large-scale, long-term and world-class research that helps governments, industry and the wider community to make informed decisions about the management of Australia’s marine estate. The Australian Institute of Marine Science's National Sea Simulator (SeaSim) is a world-class marine research aquarium facility for tropical marine organisms in which scientists can conduct cutting-edge research not previously possible in Australia. Members of the public are invited to join a free tour of their Cape Ferguson facility every Friday between March and November. Tours begin at 9.30am and end at approximately 11.45am. They include presentations on AIMS’ current research and a guided walk around the facilities, including a tour of the ‘world’s smartest aquarium’, the National Sea Simulator. Numbers are limited. Bookings are essential and close at 4pm on the Wednesday before the tour. Sturdy, closed footwear and a hat to protect against the sun are required. They also advise you to bring drinking water. A lunch is available for guests to purchase at the cafe after the tour. Please inform reception if you intend on staying for lunch when booking.
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Broadwater, Abergowrie State Forest
In the scenic Herbert River Valley, Abergowrie State Forest features tropical rainforest, open eucalypt forest and exotic pine plantations adjacent to the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Broadwater is a large grassy clearing, shaded by tall eucalypts, beside a cool waters of Broadwater Creek. Set up camp beside the creek and relax in the peaceful surrounds. Book camping well in advance for holiday periods. Stroll along the 1.6 kilometre return Rainforest walk through endangered riparian rainforest and check out the huge old Broadwater fig. Try the longer three kilometre return Creek walk through eucalypt and riparian forest to the delightful pools along Broadwater Creek. Cool off with a swim in the pools in the creek. Birdwatch in the rainforest and look for wallabies in the open forest in the afternoons. Image credits: Qld Govt
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Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park
Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park was a quarantine station in the early 1900s and a strategic defence location in World War II. Nestled in a scenic coastal location amongst open woodland and vine thickets, the historic quarantine station, established in 1915, was initially used to quarantine passengers on incoming ships. During World War II the area became a strategic defence location. Concrete structures were built on the headland in 1943 to protect Townsville and the harbour from raiding enemy ships. American and Australian armies set up camps on nearby beaches and used the Quarantine Station as a hospital. Spend time in the station's historic display centre to find out more about the quarantine days. Then set off on foot or by mountain bike to explore the shared Cape Pallarenda Trails to enjoy scenic coastal views and discover the historic World War II structures on Cape Pallarenda headland. Choose from short strolls to longer hikes or rides around the slopes of Many Peak Range. Explore picturesque beaches and forested slopes of Many Peak Range. Enjoy a picnic on the foreshore. Look for wallabies, lizards and many kinds of birds in the woodland.
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Charters Towers Venus Gold Battery
For more than a century, the Venus Battery crushed gold bearing quartz from mines across North Queensland and is a remarkable survivor of those colonial goldrush days. Located in Charters Towers, Queensland, the Venus Gold Battery can be visited for guided tour experiences, private group tours, educational experiences and as a private venue hire.
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Cleveland Bay Aviation
Cleveland Bay Aviation is a small General Aviation organisation in North Queensland. Providing sightseeing journeys of Magnetic Island and the Townsville surrounds. With the ability to go further afield to some notable locations such has Hinchinbrook Island to the north and Hamilton Island to the south. Cleveland Bay Aviation can tailor adventures for small groups to where ever the heart desires. Based out of Townsville but if you would like to depart from elsewhere in the state they will be happy to accommodate.
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Forts walk, Magnetic Island National Park
One of the most popular tracks on Magnetic Island National Park, the Forts walk leads to fascinating historic WWII fortifications and infrastructure. Starting on Horseshoe Bay Road at the turn-off to Radical Bay, the track ascends, sometimes steeply, to follow a ridge behind the bays before arriving at the ruins of the Forts complex operated during World War II. Along the way, stop to take in breathtaking views to the Palm Island Group in the north and Bowling Green Bay National Park in the south. Remember to look upwards as well! Dozing koalas are often seen in the trees along the track. The 360 degree views from the top of the fortifications are more than worth the walk! The Australian Coast Artillery Units operated the Forts complex from 1943 until the end of the Pacific War in 1945.
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Geoffrey Bay Snorkel Trail
Recommended as one of the 10 best snorkelling spots in Queensland, Magnetic Island has developed two snorkel trails for visitors to enjoy, one from Nelly Bay and one from Geoffrey Bay. Before you head to the beach, pick up a swim card from one of the many retail outlets as they have useful information about the coral and fish you can see. When you get to Geoffrey Bay, wrap the swim card on your wrist, walk straight off the beach and follow the numbered white surface floats that outline the trail (and also offer a good spot to take a rest). On a calm day you will see an amazing array of fish species, especially around the Moltke wreck. For stronger swimmers, the WWII aeroplane propeller and engine block (from a CW-22B Curtiss Falcon) is another great place to explore. Do: wear stinger suits between November to April as stingers (marine jellyfish) are around. Do not: stand on coral or hold onto the sub-surface numbered floats. Water clarity is poorer during and after south-east winds and avoid very low or high tides during new or full moon phases.
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Get Around Island Boat Tours and Hire
Get Around Island Boat Tours and Hire offers customised boat tours around Magnetic Islands many beaches, snorkelling, sightseeing and fish feeding around reefs. They can accommodate up to eight people on the fully shaded boat, which is also wheelchair friendly. Whale watching in season is very exciting. Snorkelling and fishing gear is provided on all tours. Boat hire is another popular option for those who have a boat licence and experience.
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Hawkings Point Track
Starting at the eastern end of Picnic Street in Picnic Bay, follow a track that will lead you to the saddle between Rocky Bay and Picnic Bay. Here, you will have a decent view over Rocky Bay. From here, you can even scramble down to Rocky Bay. Otherwise, the track then winds to the top of a large boulder, offering views over toward Picnic, Nelly, and Geoffrey Bays and back toward Townsville. This is Hawkings Point Lookout. One of the best places to watch sunrise and sunset on Magnetic Island.
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Ian Moody Sportfishing Charters
Guided inshore and estuary fishing charters around the Hinchinbrook region. Specialising in large Barramundi, Threadfin salmon, Fingermark etc etc. Bookings for 2 minimum to 4 maximum anglers. All different styles of fishing catered for and all equipment supplied. Custom 5.7 metre Barra boat with the latest in electronics and very stable.
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Jetski Hire Magnetic Island
Magnetic Island Jetski Hire is located in picturesque Horseshoe Bay, a bay protected by the stunning granite boulder headlands. Facing North, Horseshoe Bay is a hub of activity and relaxation, this is where you will find an outstanding variety of cafes and restaurants, all the water sports action and several tours departing daily. All their hires start with a land briefing, this is where you fill out your details, sign their contract and learn all about their area and the commercial laws their skis are governed by. From there they're ready to head down to the water, they gear you up in life jackets and if you have hired a go pro they will walk you through their recommendations on how to best use it. Once in the water they touch on the basics of riding, they show you the gears and then you're climbing aboard. After a quick demo around their training bubble you're heading out into their two kilometre square hire area. Add to the excitement kilometres of sandy beach, a kids playground, and plenty of marine life including turtles, rays, dugongs, dolphins and whales and Horseshoe is a wonderful spot to spend some time.
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Jourama Falls track, Paluma Range National Park
In the Jourama Falls section of Paluma Range National Park, Waterview Creek tumbles down many picturesque cascades and rapids, offering beautiful spots to relax, camp, walk and enjoy watching birds, butterflies and other native wildlife. Rainforest grows on the higher slopes and fringes the creek. Poplar gum, bloodwood, Moreton Bay ash and cocky apple trees are common in the open woodland. Jourama Falls track starts at the end of the road, past the main camping area. This pleasant hike along the creek to the lookout is well worth the reward. At the signposted junction, just beyond the creek crossing, continue to the lookout or visit the creek further upstream. The 600m track to the lookout is all uphill but you will be rewarded with views out over the falls and the World Heritage-listed landscape. On the return leg, stop to explore the creek and its lush vegetation. You can even slip into the clear water to cool off.
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Jourama Falls, Paluma Range National Park
A picturesque waterfall on Waterview Creek, lush rainforest and fragrant woodlands are nestled in the foothills of the Seaview Range and protected as part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Set up camp beside Waterview Creek and head off along the Jourama Falls track to the lookout over the awe-inspiring falls. Explore the creek on the return leg and slip into the clear water to cool off before returning to camp. If just visiting for the day, set up in the shade in the picnic area and enjoy a barbecue lunch before heading off to explore the park.
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Magnetic Island National Park
Rocky granite headlands and towering hoop pines stand sentinel over tranquil sandy bays on this rugged, mountainous island covered with open eucalypt woodlands and surrounded by coral reefs. Most of the island is protected as national park and features a 36 kilometre network of walking tracks. The island is easily accessible from Townsville and is noted for its abundant wildlife and varied history. Explore Magnetic Island's most picturesque spots on some of the island's walking tracks. Look for koalas, rock-wallabies, possums and a variety of birds. Swim or snorkel in secluded sandy bays and explore diverse reef and fish life. Discover the island's rich cultural heritage. Learn about the Wulgurukaba Aboriginal people's strong island connections. Visit historic sites linked to World War II.
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Magnetic Island Night Vision Tours
Many of Australia's native wildlife comes to life during the twilight hours, imagine being able to see koalas, wallabies, reptiles and endangered species like the illusive bettong in their natural habitat. Magnetic Island Night Vision Tours will give you an ecological non-intrusive unique experience, guided tour with top of the range night vision goggles to make the most of your twilight journey. Some other species one can expect to encounter on the Magnetic Island Night Vision Tours are the Bent-wing Bat, Rock Wallabies, Brushtail Possums, tree snakes, Death Adder, the Curlew Bird and many other wonderful animals that call Magnetic Island home. Your tour will be conducted by an experienced guide who will share with you interesting information, facts and wonderful stories told by the locals in the area, giving you an atmosphere of history and character. He will be able to show you the habitats in which particular animals frequent and why they continue to do so, whilst also sharing ways in which you yourselves can contribute to the continual survival of these species and ways in which to protect yourself from certain ones that can be harmful.
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Magnetic Island Time Cruises
Island time cruises have been receiving the trip advisor certificate of excellence for several years, thanks to the lovely comments of all their customers, ranking it one of the best things to in the Townsville region. They provide high quality affordable guided boat tours around Magnetic island with snorkeling and fishing activities and whale watching when it is the season. All quality fishing and snorkelling equipment are supplied on board. They only take small groups for a better experience (up to 8 people). All their tours provide local knowledge about magnetic island landmarks and its aquatic fauna. The boat has a comfortable shaded deck and toilet/change room.
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Magnetic Jet Ski Tours
The original (three hours) circumnavigation of Magnetic Island. Established in 1996, Magnetic Jet is Australia's first self drive tour company. Tours are designed to showcase the incredible, rugged beauty "Maggie" has to offer. Cruise the entire island coastline, riding luxury personal watercraft, (maximum, two average size people per ski), comfort/safety is paramount, opportunity to swap as drivers, if sharing. The scenery, breathtaking; the rock formations will amaze; the experience, exhilarating. All equipment supplied, instruction/tuition by local tour guide with over 20 years’ experience, chance wildlife encounters (including whales July - September). Top End Tour (2 hours); view the North East and North West aspects of Magnetic Island, approximately one-third of coastline). Enjoy stunning scenery of Five Beach Bay, Balding and Radical Bays, Orchard Rocks, Turtle nesting grounds and the thrill of offshore action. Perfect for day trippers with limited time; couples with younger families or larger groups. Family owned and operated, taking pride in their commitment to quality, affordable tourism. A privilege to share this amazing experience with people from all over the world, for the past 22 years, preferring the personal touch, talking directly to customers. Tours daily, weather pending, Families welcome - minimum age 10. Advance phone bookings highly recommended.
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Mount Elliot, Bowling Green Bay National Park
Rugged mountains rise abruptly from the wetlands, saltpans and mangroves of the coastal plain, south of Townsville, in the Mount Eliot section of Bowling Green Bay National Park. Mount Elliot reaches a height of 1,210 metres, jutting out of the surrounding coastal plain and dominating the landscape, and Alligator Creek descends in a series of cascades, deep pools and waterfalls. The park's wetlands are an important habitat for migratory wading birds. Camp amongst the gum trees at Alligator Creek camping area. Go birdwatching near the wetlands. Look for wallabies in the later afternoon and spotlight for possums around the camping area at night. Enjoy a short stroll along the boardwalk through riparian vegetation to the creek or tackle the 17 kilometre return Alligator Falls track. Have a picnic by the picturesque Alligator Creek. Take care near the creek as water levels can rise rapidly.
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Mount Fox
Located south-west of Ingham, Mount Fox was created by a violent volcanic explosion about 100000 years ago. In the explosion, a lava flow 10 metres thick spewed from the southern end of the crater and chunks of molten magma were thrown out of the volcano's vent. Today, the well formed crater, about 10 metres deep, is covered with sparse grasses and stunted trees amongst the eucalypt woodland environment. The pink and long-fruited bloodwoods are common in this area and vine thicket is found in a steep gully on the southern slopes. Mount Fox's tussock grass slopes shelter a number of small animals. On a cool day in the winter months, skinks and other reptiles can be seen basking on the volcanic bombs. During the hot summer months, the grass provides protection from the sun and are ideal nesting places for ground-dwelling birds like the little button quail. After sunset, rufous bettongs (small wallaby-type mammals) emerge to feed on herbs and grasses. The large wing span of a wedge-tailed eagle can also be seen, as this bird of prey soars above the Mount Fox crater.
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Mount Spec, Paluma Range National Park
Paluma Range National Park, the southern gateway for the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Mount Spec straddles the summit and escarpment of the Paluma Range, rising 1000 metres above the Big Crystal Creek floodplain. The upland rainforests are crisscrossed by a maze of streams and cascades. Open eucalypt forests dominate the lower slopes and casuarinas fringe the clear creeks. Set up camp at Big Crystal Creek and explore the surrounding tracks and waterways. Take in the views from McClellands lookout, and admire the 1930s stone bridge over Little Crystal Creek. Escape the summer heat by picnicking near the creek before slipping into the one of the many cool waterholes.
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Nautilus Aviation - Townsville
For that once in a lifetime experience, every time, Nautilus Aviation offers one of the best ways to see the world’s natural wonders just outside their doorsteps. With over 25 years of commitment to exceptional service, Nautilus Aviation has over 25 state-of-the-art helicopters across its bases in Queensland (Cairns, Townsville and Horn Island), the Northern Territory and New South Wales. Now also proudly operating Sydney’s ‘Westpac Surf Life Saver Rescue Helicopters’, Nautilus Aviation is one of the largest General Aviation helicopter company in Australia. Departing daily, in Queensland guests can jump on board a scenic flight, enjoy a reef and rainforest day package, escape to a secluded sand cay, cast a line with HeliFish, design a tour of their own or, for the more adventurous, take the controls and fly themselves! The sky is no longer the limit, it’s your new playground! Fly with Nautilus Aviation and 'Experience the Difference'.
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Nelly Bay Snorkel Trail
Recommended as one of the 10 best snorkelling spots in Queensland, Magnetic Island has developed two snorkel trails for visitors to enjoy, one from Nelly Bay and one from Geoffrey Bay. Before you head to the beach, pick up a swim card from one of the many retail outlets as they have useful information about the coral and fish you can see. When you get to Nelly Bay, wrap the swim card on your wrist, walk straight off the beach and follow the numbered yellow surface floats that outline the trail (and also offer a good spot to take a rest). On a calm day you will see an amazing array of fish species, and the giant clams that can get up to a metre long planted by scientist Dr. Rick Braley who runs Aquasearch on Magnetic Island. Do: wear stinger suits between November to April as stingers (marine jellyfish) are around. Do not: stand on coral or hold onto the sub-surface numbered floats. Water clarity is poorer during and after south-east winds and avoid very low or high tides during new or full moon phases.
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Paluma and Crystal Creek Rainforest
Embrace the natural beauty of the Paluma Range National Park, the southern gateway to the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Here you can escape the coastal lowland heat and relax in the cool mountain air of the Paluma Range. Experience the thrill of spotting the rare golden bowerbird, and take a step back in history at Paluma village. Enjoy a rainforest walk and marvel at the breathtaking views from McClellands Lookout. Along the Paluma Range highway you'll come across Little Crystal Creek and Big Crystal Creek, both ideal locations to stop for a picnic lunch, swim, bushwalk, barbecue or pitch a tent and spend the night in the designated camping areas (permit required). Big Crystal Creek, features a large swimming hole and a large picnic area. Little Crystal Creek is well known for its historic stone arch bridge built in the 1930s and the cascading waterfalls which feed into one of the best freshwater swimming holes in the north. Past the Paluma village 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, an eco-retreat offering home cooked meals and daily platypus tours.
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Pro Dive Magnetic Island
Welcome to Pro Dive Magnetic Island, the only dive shop on Magnetic Island with a boat, offering the full dive experience. Dive and Snorkel Trips: Join them for a snorkel or dive trip to the spectacular Great Barrier Reef, dive the Number One Shipwreck in Australia the SS Yongala or experience the magic of the Museum of Underwater Art at John Brewer Reef. Dive Courses: Learn to dive, continue your education or go pro! They have both SSI and PADI instructors and are an official SSI Instructor Training Centre! Sea School International – Marine Training: As the North Queensland representative of Sea School International they also offer a range of recreational and commercial boat courses.
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Radical Bay Track
Radical Bay can also be accessed via Horseshoe Bay. From the eastern end of Horseshoe Bay Beach, access to the start of the trail may be through shallow water at high tide. There is another track from Henry Lawson Street that goes behind some houses at the end of Horseshoe Bay to a bridge over the mangroves. By taking this route, you can avoid traversing the shallow water. The track then climbs through a steep gully and forest to a ridge with open eucalyptus woodland. The left branch of the track leads down to the secluded Balding Bay. Continue from the turnoff to Balding Bay and over the ridge to Radical Bay. Radical Bay will greet you with its beautiful beach surrounded by hoop-pine and boulder-strewn headlands. There are no toilets or facilities here, and note that parts of the land behind the beach are privately owned. Please observe signs.
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Rollingstone Park
Pitch your tent and relax by the freshwater creek at Rollingstone Park. With a free designated tent and vehicle camping area, this is a great spot for a weekend getaway and cool down in the freshwater swimming area. Regular community markets are also held there, on the first Saturday of each month from April to September from 8am to noon. Rollingstone also boasts a Museum, the restored Rollingstone Railway Station filled with historical mementos of the area, as well as a network of interpretive historic signage. Contact the Rollingstone Historical Society for more information on the history of the area, and the markets. Other facilities include the local pub which is a community landmark and a popular stopover for day visitors to enjoy local bands and arts and crafts markets. Rollingstone also has a beach caravan resort a little further down the Highway.
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Searchlight Tower Track
Starting on Radical Bay Road between Arthur Bay and Florence Bay, this track follows the ridge to the historical Searchlight Tower where you can climb to the top and be rewarded with views out to the ocean. There is also a picnic table under a shade tree, and so consider bringing a lunch to enjoy.
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The Beach Club Magnetic Island
Fancy a day on one of the Magnetic Island hard to reach beaches, but don't want to have to walk or 4WD to access the best ones? The Beach Club Magnetic Island provides fast transfers to access THAT beach along with a gourmet picnic and all the accessories you need for a comfortable day on the beach.
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Thorsborne Trail, Hinchinbrook Island National Park
The Thorsborne Trail is a 32-kilometre walking trail along the eastern side of Hinchinbrook Island National Park, which takes four days to complete. Hinchinbrook Island is rugged and outstanding. Its high cloud-covered mountains support fragile heath vegetation. Lush rainforest and eucalypt forest descend to a mangrove-fringed channel in the west with sweeping bays and rocky headlands along the east coast. The island is within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. The Thorsborne Trail is not a graded or hardened walking track and, in some areas, is rough and difficult to traverse. It would help if you were fit, experienced, well-prepared and fully self-sufficient. The trail is managed under the minimal impact bushwalking and no-trace camping ethics. Camping areas are provided along the trail. You need permits to camp and walk the trail. The trail is often fully booked during peak periods and school holidays so purchase your permit well in advance to avoid disappointment. Permits are issued for a maximum of 40 people on the trail at any one time (largest group size is six). Obtain a copy of the Thorsborne Trail guide before you set off.
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Townsville and North Queensland Drive Itinerary
The Townsville and North Queensland Drive itinerary is the perfect relaxed touring option to experience the Tropical North - all within easy driving distances from the centre of Townsville. It combines the best the North has to offer. Your drive will take in everything from a tropical city experience and outback history to island and reef experiences.
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Townsville North Queensland Drive Itinerary
The Townsville North Queensland Drive itinerary is the perfect relaxed touring option to experience the tropical North - from the coastal town of Townsville travel 270 kilometres round trip to the historical outback gold-mining town of Charters Towers. Why not buy a kilo of fresh northern prawns and a breadstick in Townsville for a delicious lunchtime picnic in one of the pretty parks when you reach Charters Towers. Stay a few days and enjoy the history, the many quaint old miner's cottages and colonial architecture from the late 1800s. Side tour: Take the turn-off at Mingela and drive 40 kilometres to Ravenswood, a true ghost town, which had 48 hotels and 5,000 residents at its peak until it was deserted in 1912. It is now a heritage listed working mining town with old mullock heaps, tall chimneys and nineteenth century pubs and other buildings. View operations at the open cut mine from the lookout. Continue on from here to the Burdekin Falls Dam which holds four times as much water as Sydney Harbour. It's a gorgeous place for another picnic, fish or camp for a genuine outback Australian experience.
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Townsville Town Common Conservation Park
Known locally as the Town Common, the park is close to the bustling city centre of Townsville and is a great place to enjoy nature and fantastic coastal views. Explore secluded beaches framed by rocky headlands, coastal woodlands bordering seasonal wetlands, and deep-water lagoons. Summer rains transform the park into an immense wetland, attracting large flocks of waterbirds. The walking and mountain biking trails, ranging from short easy walks to cross-country mountain bike rides, are a popular nature escape—and lots of heart-pumping fun—close to the city. Hike across the Many Peaks Range, enjoy expansive island views while riding the Under the Radar or Smedley's trails or take the trail to the beautiful and secluded Shelly Beach. This park is a birdwatcher's paradise! From bird hides and observation points, spy comb-crested jacanas and plumed whistling ducks in the wetlands, and double-barred finches and red-backed fairy-wrens in the grasslands. Look for magpie geese, brolgas and many other species that gather here to feed and nest, particularly as the wetlands dry out and food sources become concentrated in the remaining lagoons. Keep you eye on the skies and you might see brahminy kites and white-bellied sea-eagles scanning for prey.
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Townsville Watersports
They offer a great range of eco guided jetski tours in and around Townsville. They also offer an Australian first Jetski Fishing in one of the most picturesque part of Queensland. You can also come down to the iconic strand and come and hire one of their skis straight off the beach.
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Townsville's Street Art Walking Trail
Townsville's city centre has been transformed into a Street Art haven! Explore streets, alleys and laneways to see vibrant displays at every turn, from pops of colour to mega murals. Visit the Townsville Visitor Information Centre along Flinders Street to collect a free copy of your Street Art Walking Trail map, and be sure to have your camera at the ready.
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Wallaman Falls, Girringun National Park
Discover Wallaman Falls, Australia's highest permanent single drop waterfall, in Girringun National Park, west of Ingham. Surrounded by World Heritage rainforest, Stony Creek plunges 268 metres in a clear single-drop, often through a rainbow-fringed cloud of mist. Gaze at Wallaman Falls from the main lookout then walk to the second lookout which provides stunning views of the gorge and the Herbert River Valley. Explore rainforest and enjoy spectacular gorge views on one of the short walking tracks near the falls. Wallaman Falls is within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. 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. Visit for a day to view the falls and relax over a picnic in the day use area near the falls lookout, or stay longer with an overnight camp beside Stony Creek.
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