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Arcadia Village Motel
Located on Magnetic Island, Arcadia Village Motel, is a 3 star property with free on-site parking. Each room has a refrigerator, tea/coffee making facilities, air-conditioning and an outside seating area overlooking Geoffrey Bay. All include an en suite bathroom with a shower. Guests can book boat tours and jet skiing adventures at the tour desk. Nearby attractions and facilities include: Alma Bay which is one of Queensland's top beaches and includes barbecue and playground facilities. Rock Wallabies, numerous walking trails, snorkel trail, a newsagency, bottle shop, bar, Pokies, Keno and TAB, Bistro and Cafe. There is also weekend entertainment at the pub next door and they are within walking distance to Stage Door Theatre Restaurant.
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Raven Tours
Join an award winning tour guide that provides excellent service and exceptional experiences for small personalised groups. Love food then a Taste of Hinchinbrook Food and Wine Tour is for you, take a step back in time and hear the stories of yesteryear and explore a live gold field on a historic Ravenswood tour, The Great Historic Hotel Tour offers the history of Townsville's old hotels, hear murder stories, explore old hotels and comes with complimentary drinks! or breathe in nature on a waterfall tour into one of the worlds most important wet tropics.
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CStay Holiday Accommodation
Welcome to affordable holiday accommodation on magnificent Magnetic Island, just eight kilometres offshore from the city of Townsville, Queensland, Australia. If you want to party hard, CStay is not what you're looking for. CStay is not your luxurious resort with all the trimmings. Nor is it your low budget, no frills back-packers accommodation. CStay sits very comfortably right in between. CStay offers 16 private rooms in a guest house style establishment with renovated shared facilities. Rooms are either double or twin with air-conditioning and bar fridge. Explore the island during the day and make new friends with like-minded people at night as you cook up a feast of local delicacies in the fully-appointed communal kitchen. Enjoy your creations next to the sparkling pool and barbecue area. However, if you're looking for peace, quiet, clean, affordable accommodation, and a base from where to explore the mysteries and treasures of Magnetic Island, you've just found your home away from home.
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Tropical Palms Resort and 4WD Hire
Tropical Palms Resort offers 12 self-contained rooms for family holidays. Sleeping up to two adults and two children. Located in beautiful Picnic Bay on Magnetic Island. Tropical Palms Resort is just a 100 metre walk to the Picnic Bay Jetty, safe swimming beach, Picnic Bay Hotel and other restaurants. It is also only a short walk to the famous Magnetic Island Golf Course. All rooms are self-contained with kitchenette, air-conditioning, television, DVD players and en suite bathrooms. There is a swimming pool, barbecue and Al fresco dining area. Tropical Palms Four Wheel Drive Hire offers modern, well maintained, air-conditioned four wheel drive cars to explore Magnetic Island, including the more secluded, beautiful bays. House guests receive a discount on car hire. All island tours and attractions are arranged from reception. Discounted package deals are available, including room, car hire and ferry transfers.
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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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Secura Lifestyle Magnetic Gateway Townsville
Welcome to Secura Lifestyle Magnetic Gateway Townsville, a tranquil holiday park only 10 minutes drive south of Townsville, Queensland and is ideally suited for all your holiday activities. Nestled amongst shady native trees and beautiful bird life, providing the perfect relaxing setting for you to unwind on your tropical holiday. Enjoy comfortable ensuite air-conditioned cabins which can accommodate up to four people. Shady caravan and tent sites are available, complemented by spotless and well-maintained amenities block and barbecue areas. Whether you are stopping for one night or just want a place to set up base while you explore all the attractions of Townsville, Secura Lifestyle Magnetic Gateway Townsville has everything you need. Guests also enjoy a variety of special offers with local businesses, including discounts at popular tourist attractions. Friendly staff can assist with recommendations on events and activities in and around Townsville. Winter nomad activities include an open-air cinema, camp-fire catch-ups and much more! A member of the G'day Parks network, guests receive discounts on accommodation and other benefits.
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Hinchinbrook Resorts Lucinda
Pristine water ways, stunning reefs and untouched islands provide the backdrop to this delightful resort. Located in Tropical North Queensland, Lucinda is the home of Hinchinbrook Resorts. Lucinda is 150 kilometres north of Townsville and 300 kilometres south of Cairns. The Hinchinbrook Region is renowned for containing some of the most outstanding and spectacular islands, reefs and waters of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. The area abounds with fish and coral as well as unforgettable scenery. Nature enthusiasts can stroll the resort grounds and nearby national parks where they can absorb themselves in bird watching or the sights of the many waterfalls. Anglers and boating enthusiasts can take advantage of the large boat ramp with ample trailer parking and for in-house guests boat mooring along the surrounding pontoons makes that big day out on the water a bit easier to come home to. You can truly enjoy the stunning natural beauty, rich history and fabulous attractions that await them. People of all ages will enjoy the many attractions of the Hinchinbrook area, whether here on business, seeking relaxation or something more adventurous.
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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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Bungalow Bay Wildlife Experience
Eco Accredited Bungalow Bay allows guests to learn and importantly get up close and personal with our unique wildlife, a key principle in teaching important conservation messages. Daily tours conducted with onsite rangers offering local stories and personal experiences with our native Australian Wildlife. Currently, they are running one tour departing daily at 10:30 am with a local ranger showcasing Magnetic Island best wildlife experience. You will get the chance to interact and learn about turtles, pythons, wombats, lizards, crocodiles and importantly Magnetic Islands Icon – Our Koala’s Pebbles, Thor and new rescue koala edition Amaroo who has just turned three. -Educational wildlife experience’s and meet the rangers -Suitable for all ages – please note children under the age of 16 years must be accompanied by a parent or guardian -Small personalised tours - Family owned and operated for over 17 years on Magnetic Island - Advanced Eco Tourism status and member of Australia’s Zoo and Aquarium Association who advises of up to date covid plans for parks. Bungalow Bay's commitment is to deliver an informative presentation with our Australian Wildlife. Please note koala interactions are through education and our rangers, photos are not available during this tour with the welfare of our animals a priority for our local team of rangers.
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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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The Ville Resort Casino
Discover a world class destination on the edge of paradise, and make it your own. A place to come together or a place to escape? A peaceful oasis, or a supercharged playground? A place to lose yourself, or to find your bliss? A fleeting drink with friends, or a week of memories to last a lifetime? You decide. Find your paradise at The Ville. The Ville Resort - Casino is superbly located on the breakwater boasting a variety of accommodation rooms overlooking either Magnetic Island and the Coral Sea or Marina and city. Enjoy some of the best dining options Townsville has to offer at The Ville's restaurants. The property features bars, 24 hour reception, room service, conferencing facilities and 300 car parks as well as concierge services. For the entertainment enthusiasts The Ville is the place to be with live entertainment and Townsville's only casino.
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Secura Lifestyle The Lakes Townsville
Surround yourself with tropical palm trees and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere in the heart of Townsville. Choose from a range of comfortable air-conditioned Unit, Villa, Cabin and Bungalow accommodation. Pet-friendly cabin accommodation and portable kennels are also now available for our four-legged guests. Their ensuited, pet-friendly, powered sites also provide guests with privacy and convenience. Park features include camp kitchen, swimming pool and laundry. Located on Currelea Lake, the Park is just a few minutes walking distance to a variety of retail and food outlets plus Castletown Shopping World. An ideal central base to discover all Townsville has to offer. Guests enjoy deals to popular local attractions including Reef HQ, Billabong Sanctuary, nearby food outlets and return travel to Magnetic Island. Check with their friendly staff on check-in.
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Rambutan Townsville
Rambutan is an award-winning hotel that features a stunning rooftop bar and restaurant. Part hotel, part luxury resort, Rambutan is Townsville and Magnetic Island’s most vibrant place to eat, stay or play! Rambutan is within walking distance of the Townsville CBD and just minutes from local attractions, cafes, bars and restaurants. There are accommodation options to suit every budget. Whether you are travelling with family, for business or touring the region's gorgeous coastline – Rambutan is an oasis of style, luxury, comfort and fun. You won’t find anywhere else like Rambutan! All accommodation includes its own private en-suite, air-conditioning, and access to all Resort facilities. Guests at Rambutan can enjoy every bit of luxury during their stay without the hefty price tag. On-site undercover parking is available. The resort features a centralised rooftop pool, an outdoor bar and restaurant. The rooftop bar and pool are the perfect place for locals and guests to socialise over a few drinks.
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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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Orpheus Island Lodge
Located amidst the magical waters of the Great Barrier Reef, Orpheus is a secluded island hideaway accommodating just 28 indulged guests. Access is either via a 30 minute helicopter journey from Townsville, or a 1.5 hour private helicopter charter from Cairns. Orpheus showcases a plethora of once in a lifetime experiences! Its principal dive sites boast 1,100 of the 1,500 species of fish on the reef; the local waters are a fisherman's playground and home to the most sought after reef fish species in the world; and guests can take the helm of a motorised dingy complete with gourmet picnic hamper and discover the many pristine coves and reefs that fringe Orpheus. Alternatively, Orpheus provides the perfect backdrop for a more private interlude if guests wish to simply relax and succumb to a unique indigenous-inspired treatment at the Gwandalan Day Spa. Accommodation rates include all gourmet meals, celebrating a bounty of locally-sourced and freshly grown and caught seasonal delights, a selection of Australian wines and beers, and a daily Orpheus experience (snorkelling, fishing, island cruises). Not to be missed is the signature Dining with the Tides experience, an intimate dinner for two under a starlit canopy on the island's jetty.
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Mercure Townsville
Mercure Townsville is set amidst 11 acres of tropical gardens on the shores of Lake Curralea. Ideally located, it is popular with guests from Australia and overseas. The 162 well appointed rooms offer free WiFi, views across the lake, swimming pool or lush tropical gardens, and provide all the amenities needed for a holiday or business trip. Relax in Townsville's largest free form swimming pool with spa, or for the more energetic, enjoy the two full size day and night tennis courts before taking a leisurely stroll around the lakeside environment. The Mercure's own restaurant, Celsius, offers a wide choice of cuisine, for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Enjoy room service breakfast and lunch or relax on the poolside deck for a la carte dinner, which is perfect leisurely during those warm, North Queensland nights. This resort style hotel also offers excellent facilities for weddings, meetings, conference groups and corporate travellers, with ample parking for guests, visitors and conference delegates.
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Mariners North Holiday Apartments
Welcome to Mariners North Holiday Apartments Townsville, where you enjoy guaranteed ocean views from every apartment. As the one and only 'absolute oceanfront accommodation' located anywhere in Townsville, Mariners North Holiday Apartments takes pride of place on The Strand on prestigious Mariners Peninsula - the most exclusive location in the city. Every apartment has the most amazing ocean views from The Strand and Cleveland Bay clear out to picturesque Magnetic Island and beyond. Situated on The Strand - Mariners North Holiday Apartments has everything within easy strolling distance including the Breakwater Ferry Terminal - main departure point for Magnetic Island, Breakwater Marina - base for all charter boats to the Great Barrier Reef, the Central Business District, Palmer Street Dining Precinct, Casino and Entertainment Centre. Every apartment is fully self-contained, with two full sized bathrooms, a spacious open plan living area and a generous private balcony with stunning ocean views. They come complete with air-conditioning, fans, large modern kitchen, fully equipped laundry, Foxtel television, DVD, security access and secure undercover parking. Venture outside your apartment and enjoy a range of resort style facilities including a saltwater pool, spa and full size tennis court.
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Magnetic Islands BEST Bus Tours
Magnetic Islands BEST Bus Tours provide a comprehensive, personal day tour of beautiful Magnetic Island. Commentary by a friendly, knowledgeable local tour guide covers, wildlife, flora, geology, folk lore, attractions and more. Many creatures are sighted and there is even interaction with some. They depart from right outside the Island ferry terminal six days a week. Two tours a day are offered July to September.
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Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville
Stay at the iconic Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville in the heart of the central business and entertainment district and enjoy all that Townsville has to offer. A short stroll from your accommodation you will find award winning restaurants, nightlife, entertainment and major tourist attractions such as the Strand, Castle Hill and Reef HQ Aquarium. Conveniently located across the street are local bus services that will take you to the Townsville Crocodiles basketball games and the North Queensland Cowboys Rugby League clashes. Relax in your spacious guest room and enjoy the picturesque views of Magnetic Island and Castle Hill. Wireless internet access is readily available in your room and you can admire sweeping views across the city from the rooftop before plunging into the sparkling rooftop pool for a relaxing swim. If you are looking for the perfect location to host your next event in Townsville, whether it be a conference, birthday party or a wedding, their versatile function rooms cater for up to 180 people. All meeting rooms feature natural light and wireless internet access, with catering also available. Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville offers food and beverage options that include The Sugar Shaker Restaurant and 24 hour room service.
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Grand Hotel and Apartments Townsville
The multi award winning Grand Hotel and Apartments Townsville is ideally located in the heart of Townsville's premier dining precinct and close to the Strand, Castle Hill, central Central Business District precinct, Casino and all of Townsville's attractions. To enjoy the best restaurants, service and north Queensland produce, Palmer Street is the place to be, even better, you can charge back to your hotel room. Well appointed Superior King rooms, One Bedroom Apartments and Two Bedroom Apartments all feature air-conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, high speed and wi-fi internet access and private balconies. Apartments are fully self-contained with kitchen and laundry facilities. Guests have access to the sundeck swimming pool and spa area and a full modern gymnasium. The hotel also offers room service, free off street parking in addition to secure undercover car parking (daily charges apply).
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Magnetic Island Ferries
Take in the stunning views while cruising on Magnetic Island's only passenger and car ferry service. With up to eight return trips daily, they welcome you aboard Magnetic Island Ferries as they make their way to Magnetic Island where you can enjoy magnificent weather, azure waters, brilliant beaches, fascinating flora and fauna, fine food and wines, and activities almost too numerous to mention. The friendly ferry crew look forward to welcoming you aboard.
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City Oasis Inn
Ideally situated in the centre of Townsville, they are a four star property only minutes from the vibrant Townsville Central Business District, The Strand and Castle Hill. They have a range of spacious room types to suit all guests, including motel style rooms, larger rooms with a kitchenette, pet friendly rooms and even a beautifully appointed miners cottage. Guests can also enjoy their award winning lagoon style pool, lush tropical gardens, free barbecue facilities and free wi-fi.
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Bush Oasis Caravan Park
Situated on the south side of Townsville within proximity to local shopping and attractions being only a short 10-15 minutes’ drive. The park is set on 14 acres of undulating grounds with numerous animal life accompanied by a vast array of local flora. Featuring Queensland' 1st adults-only pool, Bush Oasis offers numerous options for big rigs, caravans, campervans, tents, and from the 1st of April 2021 Bush Oasis Caravan Park will also offer luxurious glamping tents and a cafe and events centre overlooking the constructed wetland. Glamping tents are now bookable through our website. Perfectly positioned to make as your base as you explore the sights of Townsville and the region in a secured and gated park that you will feel safe and welcomed. Within proximity to Cape Bowling Green National Park where you may swim in the crystal-clear waters or hike the trails exploring and photographing the extraordinary scenery and wildlife. Bush Oasis is Advanced Eco Tourism Accredited and is not connected to town water or waste. Water is pumped via an onsite bore and processed by a reverse osmosis system for customer enjoyment of facilities and wastewater processed via the onsite sewage facility. Electricity is also offset via a large bank of solar PV and includes battery backup. The park has also received 3-star rating for energy, waste and water with CCIQ Ecobiz.
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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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Amaroo On Mandalay
Amaroo On Mandalay is located on beautiful Magnetic Island. Amaroo On Mandalay is the perfect place for a relaxing get away, located just eight kilometres off Townsville, on picturesque Magnetic Island. Amaroo On Mandalay strikes the perfect balance between the seclusion of an island paradise and modern comfort. Amaroo On Mandalay is set amongst 10 acres of lush tropical gardens and manicured lawns, backing on to a World Heritage National Park. Amaroo On Mandalay adds a touch of luxury to its idyllic setting.
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SeaLink Queensland
SeaLink Queensland is your one-stop-shop for your visit to North Queensland. From day tours, accommodation, transport and activities, specialising in Townsville and Magnetic Island, SeaLink Queensland can help you plan the ultimate holiday in this stunning region! Enjoy a half day snorkel tour around Magnetic Island, dine on a bush tucker breakfast with the koalas at the island's Koala Sanctuary or be entertained with a dinner and show at Magnetic Island's very own Theatre Restaurant. Find SeaLink Queensland in two locations - Breakwater Terminal, Townsville and Nelly Bay Terminal, Magnetic Island. SeaLink Queensland are award winning ferry service providing the quickest link to Magnetic Island (20 minutes) with 18 daily return services between Townsville and Magnetic Island. Cruise over in air-conditioned comfort and enjoy a relaxing drink at the bar. From May to October be sure to check out SeaLink's seasonal North Queensland Adventure series as they discover more of beautiful North Queensland. Visit the historic Cape Cleveland Lighthouse, explore what lies beneath the sea at gorgeous Yanks Jetty on Orpheus Island or spot Humpback Whales as these gentle giants pass Townsville and Magnetic Island on their annual migration. There really is something for everyone!
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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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Kernow Charters Towers
Kernow offers a high standard of one and two bedroom serviced apartments with a unique, homely, heritage feel and a bit of history thrown in. Set on 200 acres and only five minutes from the centre of town, the 15 refurbished apartments have King and Queen beds throughout, and all bedrooms have ensuites. There are spacious living areas with polished timber floors, flat-screen televisions, fully-furnished modern kitchens and laundry facilities in each. Free WiFi and Netflix are included, and each unit has either a private courtyard, deck area and/or garden, many with direct access to the resort-style pool. With each apartment being unique there is always a new experience to return to. Eight more hotel-style rooms and suites will be available shortly, attached to the new conference and meeting centre. The tennis court, golf-driving range and gym/games room are also now online, along with a 3.4km walking/running track around the property. Future development includes a clear lagoon, glamping and additional recreational activities. Go and relax with them and while there, embrace the outback town of Charters Towers with its historic buildings, history of gold mining and all a small town has to offer. Kernow Charters Towers is located a short drive 125 kilometres west of Townsville. Due to current health advice on social distancing, please contact the business for information regarding opening times and services.
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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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Museum Of Tropical Queensland
Part of the Queensland Museum Network, Museum of Tropical Queensland delivers a snapshot of North Queensland with galleries telling the stories of World Heritage-listed rainforests, reefs and the tragic tale of HMS Pandora, the ship sent to capture the Bounty mutineers. Located in the heart of Townsville, the museum also explores life in the tropics from prehistoric times to the modern-day. The diverse range of exhibitions and displays are designed to captivate audiences of all ages, focussing on natural and cultural history, biodiversity, human science and much more. Relax and refuel waterside by enjoying a coffee, snack or light lunch during your visit at The Galley Cafe. Open daily from 10 am to 2 pm. The Museum Shop showcases a unique range of merchandise, contemporary homewares, jewellery, educational games and toys plus a variety of souvenirs to make your visit a memorable one! Townsville and regional residents receive discounted museum admission. All exhibitions are included with admission. Become an Annual Pass holder and receive unlimited entry to the museum for 12 months. Paid street parking is available outside the museum, and free parking (time limits apply) is available on The Strand, about 200 metres from the museum.
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Billabong Sanctuary
Billabong Sanctuary offers Australia’s Best Interactive Wildlife Experience! Located just 20 minutes south of Townsville on Highway 1A , Queensland, it features native animals in natural habitats of eucalypt forest, rainforest and wetlands. As a small boutique park, it specialises in memorable personal experiences. Get up close to a koala, pat a wombat, pose with a parrot, pat a dingo, and feed the cassowaries. You could even hold a baby saltwater crocodile! There are three walk-through enclosures where kangaroos and pademelons will hop up for a pat. Most interactive experiences are free-of-charge and you can use your own camera to capture the moment. Throughout the day Rangers present dynamic and impassioned wildlife talks, which are both inspiring and entertaining. A new Roving Rangers feature brings animals up close to family groups for a friendly chat and photo opportunities. Daily croc-feeding shows are thrilling to watch, as these mighty reptiles power out of the water to snatch their food. The focus on conservation has earned Billabong Sanctuary Advanced Ecotourism Accreditation.
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Charters Towers Tourist Park (Top Park)(Discovery Park)
Charters Towers Tourist Park, owned by locals who love their town, is situated approximately two kilometres from the historic city centre. Set off the main highway they offer a relaxed quiet stay with peaceful setting. They accommodate for all your caravan needs, shady grass sites, concrete sites and ensuite sites. Relax on the patio of their lovely cabins and enjoy the bird life. All cabins are fully self contained and air conditioned. They offer six different style cabins to suit your individual needs. Swim in their lovely salt water pool and spa. 24 Hours Surveillance for that peace of mind. Come and enjoy the lovely old building and history that Charters Towers has to offer. Take advantage of their local knowledge, ideal fishing and gold prospecting area for the avid enthusiastic. A one and half hour drive from Townsville and a cross over before your enter the outback. Charters Towers also has lots of great events happening all years round. Their local information centre will ensure that your time in Charters Towers is action packed and enjoyable.
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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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Hidden Valley Cabins
Hidden Valley Cabins is an award winning eco resort. Located one and half hours north west of Townsville, on the western slope of the Paluma range in Queensland, Australia. Due to the resort's elevation the climate is cooler and less humid than areas close to the coast. It is the perfect temperature all year round. Hidden Valley Cabins is run on 100 per cent on Solar Power. They are in the perfect location, whether you wish to self-drive or hop on board one of their three-night / four-day personalised tours, leaving Townsville on Tuesdays, you will love the location and the Australian bush experience. Hidden Valley Cabins also runs daily tours for guests from the resort. For just a little extra you can choose from their Platypus Safari or Night Safari. The tours add to the Australian bush experience and cover the unique animals, ecosystems and landscape within the Hidden Valley area. Hidden Valley Cabins is a family run business. They pride themselves on personalised service, quality home cooked meals and unique tours. Ian and Bonnie McLennan have owned Hidden Valley Cabins since 1986, come and join the family, have dinner with the owners, hear their stories.
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Beach House Motel
Beach House Motel is a family owned and operated motel right in the heart of the Townsville Strand. It is surrounded by a wide variety of local attractions and activities and is only a short walk to the restaurant and cafe precinct. Beach House motel is a very clean, comfortable and relaxing motel that is perfect for all travellers. You'll find it impossible not to fall in love with views out over Magnetic Island and Cleveland Bay. Take a stroll along the Strand or just sit back and relax. With a choice of fully renovated self-contained rooms or traditional motel rooms you are sure to find something that fits your needs and budget. The convenient off street parking allows you easy access to your room. Rooms feature free Foxtel Sports, LCD or Smart television, air-conditioning, microwave, fridge, tea/coffee making facilities, toaster on request, renovated bathroom and free wi-fi.
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Park Regis Anchorage
Park Regis Anchorage is a welcoming oasis in the heart of Townsville, Australia's largest tropical city. Park Regis Anchorage's great location, in the cosmopolitan Palmer Street dining precinct, means guests are an easy stroll from restaurants, cafes, bars, city nightlife and The Ville Resort and Casino. The hotel is also on the doorstep to the world famous Great Barrier Reef and Magnetic Island, water sports and cruises, golf, fishing, rainforests, national parks and colourful outback. Return from a day of business meetings, laid-back activities or thrill-seeking adventure and kick back in the comfort of Park Regis Anchorage's spacious and modern Hotel Rooms, One and Two Bedroom air-conditioned apartments. All rooms have WiFi access, cable television. Most of the guest rooms have recently been refurbished incorporating stylish design elements whilst still retaining the hotel's signature relaxed, tropical Queensland surrounds. The rooms have been fitted with modern indoor and outdoor furniture, new beds and designer bedding and LCD televisions.
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Quest Townsville
Quest Townsville offers a competitive and spacious alternative to hotel style accommodation with a mix of studio, one bedroom and two bedroom serviced apartments, all with balconies overlooking the Marina, pool or harbour. A short stroll from the Central Business District, Strand and Beaches, making it an ideal accommodation option for both the business and leisure traveller. Studio apartments are open plan with kitchenette, dining, lounge area and include a private balcony. One bedroom apartments provide a fully equipped kitchen (microwave,oven and dishwasher), separate bedroom with a queen size bed with a private balcony. Two bedroom apartments are simply a combination of a studio apartment and a one bedroom apartment with an interconnecting door. Quest Townsville provides complimentary under-cover parking, Foxtel, recreational facilities including an in-ground pool with spa and barbecue. Complimentary use of Anytime Fitness Gym is provided, just a short, warm up stroll from the property. Complimentary wi-fi is also available for your convenience throughout the property .
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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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Black River Stadium Over 50s Tourist Park
Black River Stadium Tourist Park is an over 50s Tourist Park with peace and quiet, nice, clean facilities and 20 metre drive through sites. Located 20 kilometres north of Townsville and seven kilometres off the Bruce Highway. There are no child facilities, pools or jumping castles, just a very quiet park with very quiet, nice people staying in peaceful bush surrounds, located close to fishing, beaches, hospital and medical facilities, shopping and fast food outlets. Friendship and happy hours are their specialty from 4.30pm daily in tourist season. There is a fabulous camp kitchen set up for you to try out all your favourite recipes plus food night meals in season. A real Grey Nomad hibernation retreat.
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Pitstop Karting
Get on track at Pitstop Karting and experience the ultimate adrenalin rush at Townsville's only hire go karting facility. Pitstop Karting is a purpose-built outdoor kart track that offers the Ultimate fun and thrill in a Junior, Senior or Passenger Kart! What they have to offer at Pitstop karting is go-kart hire, gift vouchers, birthday party packages, corporate bookings, team building, school and special events, hens and bucks parties, Christmas break-up parties, sport break-up parties and much more. It is the Ultimate fun to be had in Townsville any time of the year. You'll want to experience the rush over and over again!
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Museum of Underwater Art - Coral Greenhouse
The John Brewer Reef ‘Coral Greenhouse’ is located in the heart of the Greater Barrier Reef Marine Park and is the largest MOUA installation thus far, sharing a message of reef conservation and restoration. It is the first-ever underwater building created by international underwater sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor, who hopes to advance education and offer opportunities for scientists, marine students and tourists to engage - either by snorkel or dive - in action-based learning and to conduct globally important research on coral reef restoration.
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M.I. Rentals -Jeeps on Maggie
Enjoy your experience on Magnetic Island with easy and affordable transport hire. M.I. Rentals is a one-stop hire centre for topless Jeeps, cars, bikes, electric bikes, plus snorkel and fishing gear. Get local advice and knowledge on animal encounters, snorkel locations and fishing spots. New from the United States of America, is the safe and fun reef boards, see fish in safety and comfort. The vehicle range includes our new range of topless Jeep Wranglers and family-sized all-wheel-drive SUV's, plus we offer plenty of optional extras like baby seats, maps and more. Let M.I Rentals tailor a package for your Magnetic Island experience. They can add fishing, snorkel or esky hire and more. Let them know what you would like included and they will have it ready to go with your car hire. M.I. Rentals offer discounts for extended hires plus bargain rates for quality vehicles and equipment. Located centrally in Nelly Bay at Magnetic Adventure and Hire, Magnetic Island's only fishing, tackle and water sports store with amazing service and pricing.
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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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Shoredrive Motel
The Motel is right on the beachfront on Townsville's scenic Strand, with easy access to the Airport and city centre and is the perfect choice for the business or leisure traveller. You can enjoy the best of Townsville, right at your hotel doorstep. The beach, the rockpool, restaurants, casino and nightlife all within a short distance. The Shore drive offers a range of accommodation styles to suit your needs and budget, with an array of Restaurants, Cafes Takeaways and Supermarket close by and within a walking distance along the Strand.
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Coconut Glen Van Park
They are a budget friendly caravan park offering level powered and unpowered sites for short or long term stays. Reversing into sites has never been easier with their wide roads. Laze by the swimming pool on one of their sun lounges. Gas refills or swap 'n' go are available at the office and their recycling bins are scattered throughout the park for any 10 cent return bottles and cans. Well behaved pets are welcome at any time.
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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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2021 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 Australia Grand Finals.
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2022 Townsville North Queensland Games
The NQ Games is the largest regularly run multi-sport event in regional Australia. The North Queensland Sports Foundation in partnership with NQLGA members have delivered this event biennially for the past 37years. Athletes, Officials and the sporting community across the region will converge on Townsville and surrounding regions to participate in the 2022 NQ Games. The Games brings social and economic benefits to the region as a result of visitation and community connection. There is no shortage of attractions in Townsville and surrounding regions for intrastate and interstate participants and spectators to stay and play.
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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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9th Biennial Queensland Heritage Rally
Step back in time and experience a weekend of vintage machinery in action, including for the first time on display the only functioning 1910 Marshall Tractor in the world. The rally is also aiming to bring together the largest collection of vintage motorcycles ever seen in Australia.
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A Touch of Salt
Zomato users recommend Wine at A Touch of Salt. Most of the visitors also appreciated the Attentive Service. A Touch of Salt is located at 86 Ogden Street. It is rated 3.4 by 59 Zomato users. Serves International. The average cost for 2 mains and 2 beverages here is A$30 approximately. Listing provided in partnership with Zomato
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Adventurers Backpackers Resort
Fun and friendly are some of the words that most people would use to illustrate Adventurers Backpackers. They endeavour to provide travellers with the best possible experience of Townsville and the region, as part of that they can rely on comfortable and inexpensive accommodation. With three levels and up to 100 rooms, they start with the share dorms, other rooms consist of twins, doubles, single private and family rooms. All rooms have fridges, lockers, ceiling fans, air-conditioners and crisp white sheets. Onsite facilities include a large stainless steel kitchen (plates and cutlery provided) with free tea and coffee, games room lounge room with television, two laundries, roof top pool, reception, internet café, convenience store, and on site undercover parking. Also new to Adventurers Resort is an Indian restaurant. Adventurers Resort is a short 10 to 15 minute stroll into the Central Business District along the trendy cafe and restaurant area of Townsville. So if you're searching for the most accommodating, friendly and relaxing time whilst visiting Townsville and surrounds you can find these things at your fingertips when staying at Adventurers Backpackers.
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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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Alva Beach
Alva is a relaxed Burdekin location, 15 minutes drive from Ayr. Holiday houses and permanent residences fill the township, with Alva Beach a short stroll over the sand dune. A lookout area is located to the right as you enter the township. At low tide Alva Beach makes for excellent exploring, with lots of small crabs, shells and birdlife. Outer sand bars create inshore lagoon areas popular with kite surfers on weekends. The beach is also popular for fishing, with many anglers bringing in decent catches to show off. On weekends during summer, the beach is patrolled by members of the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club. Located here since 1926, the club is one of North Queensland's oldest surf clubs. Care needs to be taken if swimming, due to changeable conditions and marine stingers. Alva's Yongala Dive operates a Dive Shop and accommodation, specialising in PADI dive courses, with day trips out to the SS Yongala wreck. This world renowned dive is one of the best on the Great Barrier Reef. Alva Beach Tourist Park has a kiosk. If you're spending the day at Alva, bring a picnic or barbecue lunch to enjoy in the park near the surf club.
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Ancient Rome: The Empire that Shaped the World
Journey back in time and discover the legacy of the mighty Roman Empire in the nationally touring exhibition Ancient Rome: The Empire that Shaped the World. The exhibition highlights one of the most powerful civilisations in the history of humankind by showcasing replica art, machines and technology from the famous era. Created by internationally acclaimed Artisans of Florence, Italy the exhibition is made up of over 50 displays including frescoes, catapults, armour, busts and weapons all reconstructed from ancient Roman records. Visit to discover the lasting influence that the Roman Empire has had on modern society and technology.
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Anderson Park Botanic Gardens
Anderson Gardens is the largest of Townsville's botanic gardens, offering 25 hectares of fauna and flora to explore. Wander through the collection of garden displays or find a shady spot to sit back and relax. Centrally located in Mundingburra, the Garden contains fine specimens of tropical trees, palms and Pandanus. The World Cycad Garden, Grand Avenues and Tropical Orchard are of particular note. A representative collection of Cape York Peninsula rainforest specimens is displayed along with native plants and flora of the dry tropical regions of the world. Anderson Gardens were named in appreciation of the work of William Anderson, City of Townsville's first Curator of Parks from 1878 to 1934. Anderson Gardens is a quiescent beauty amongst Townsville's abundant natural attractions. The Gardens are open to the public between sunrise and sunset. Gates will be closed at other times.
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Antiquities Revealed
From the vault of the museum’s collection, Antiquities Revealed showcases objects from ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian civilisations, connecting you with the past and providing insights into daily life, personal dress, technology, beliefs, art and more. Marvel at the tiny, the intricate and the well-loved items of everyday life from centuries ago. Move through the Mediterranean, absorbing intriguing stories across space and time with more than 150 iconic objects. From the pottery used in daily life to the exquisitely adorned bell kraters (large mixing vessels) to fragments of mosaic pavement from Pompeii, see the remnants of peoples’ lives, passions, creativity and innovation.
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Anzac Park, Ayr
At the top of Anzac Park, the Ayr War Memorial takes pride of place. It commemorates those who died in service in various theatres of war including the First and Second World Wars, and Korean and Vietnam Wars. A rotunda is situated nearby. The all-abilities playground in Anzac Park has a variety of playground equipment, and is fully fenced. This is a fantastic place to let the children shake off a car trip, use up some energy, and get some fresh air. Stretch out and watch the kids enjoy themselves. The Sway Fun Swing allows children in wheelchairs to join in the fun. Only one street back from Ayr's main street, there are plenty of nearby meal outlets and cafes. Bring a picnic for the family, or use the sheltered barbecues.
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Apex Camps Magnetic Island Group Accommodation, Activities and Events
Looking for an exciting birthday party idea, or an outdoor adventure or team building activity for your next corporate, sporting team or other group event? Apex Camps Magnetic Island provides challenging, memorable and fun outdoor adventure activities and team building experiences for all occasions! Located on the breathtaking Magnetic Island at the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, just a short ferry ride from Townsville, Apex Camps Magnetic Island is a destination to delight! Apex Camps purpose-built outdoor recreation centre offers something to suit every type of group, with everything from archery, slack lining and catapults, to raft building, kayaking, abseiling and more. Together with its fabulous activities, Apex Camps highly skilled activity instructors, full onsite catering and excellent facilities will guarantee your group a wonderful time on their beautiful, 10-acre site located in Picnic Bay and surrounded by national parkland. Looking for a longer stay? Apex Camps Magnetic Island also provides cabin accommodation. And, as a registered not-for-profit charity organization operating since 1983, you can feel good that your booking with Apex Camps goes towards supporting Apex Australia, helping improve the lives of young Australians. To request an event, complete the Contact Us form on the Apex Camps website.
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Arcadia at Magnetic Island
Arcadia is perfectly situated in the smallest of the four main bays on Magnetic Island, and is surrounded by the prominent Alma Bay and Geoffrey Bay. Geoffrey Bay is a Marine National Park Zone - which means no fishing or collecting - but is great for exploring during low tide. The old barge jetty is a great spot for feeding rock wallabies at dusk. Alma Bay is a very popular swimming spot for local and visitors alike. The Arcadian Life Saving Club patrols the beach on weekends and public holidays. Public amenities include a gas barbecue, picnic tables, shaded children's playground, changing areas and toilets. Alma Bay is famous for its ANZAC Day Commemorations. Real-life soldiers from the Thirty-Fifth Field Squadron (Reservist Engineers) annually re-enact the events that took place and make a dawn landing right on the beach.
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Arthur Bay
Arthur Bay is located on the north-east corner of Magnetic Island. With neighbouring bays Florence and just a short walk from the iconic Forts walk; Arthur Bay is the perfect location for lunch or a swim. With fringing reefs out-skirting Arthur Bay, don't forget to pack your snorkel gear. With less traffic than the main beaches, Arthur Bay is perfect for sun lovers to immerse and relax under the cover of the granite boulders and native hoops pines that surround the bay. Within a short walk, you can find one of the most iconic photo locations of Magnetic Island. Arthur Bay lookout is a 200 metre walk from the bay and showcases the island's natural untouched landscape. Koala's, rock wallabies, possums and more visit this bay and you can quite often see whales visiting these waters in the right season. The beach house at Arthur Bay is the only property in the whole of Arthur Bay and is located 20 metres from the home. The house is available to book as a holiday home.
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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.
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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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Australian Italian Festival
The Australian Italian Festival is one of Queensland’s leading cultural festivals. It is an exciting celebration of all things Italian – food, wine and world class entertainment on two large stages. There is loads of fun to be had with cooking demonstrations, market and craft stalls and an historical display showcasing the influence of Italian immigrants on the district. Take the challenge with spaghetti and pizza eating competitions, grape stomping or even attempt climbing the greasy pole. With free amusement rides and entertainment for the children and exciting games for the teenagers and young at heart. The festival is a great weekend out for young and old. The 2021 festival will be held in the first weekend of June. Come experience our amazing North Queensland winter weather and allow us to provide the entertainment. Tickets are available at the Townsville Tickets website and will also be sold at the gate. Tickets can be purchased online for a 20 per cent discount off the full price. Minors (under 18s) must be accompanied by an adult and will be admitted free of charge.
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Ayr
Situated 85 kilometres south of Townsville is the rural community of Ayr, in the prosperous Burdekin district. This is prime sugar country, with about 80,000 hectares of sugar cane, producing about 1.25 million tonnes of raw sugar annually. Being in one of the largest cane and mango farming areas in Australia, as well as melons and other fruit and vegetables, Ayr is a mecca for working backpackers. Iconic spots in town include: • The Silver Link - the spectacular Burdekin River Bridge connecting the towns of Ayr and Home Hill is the district's best-known landmark and longest crossing of its type in the country. • Plantation Park features the town’s famous Gubulla Munda – a sculpture of the giant Rainbow serpent; a memorial for the Birriguba Tribe who traditionally occupied the land. • The Ayr Nature Display exhibits an amazing array of insects, shells, crustaceans, reptiles, rocks, timber, aboriginal stone implements and fossils. • The Star Dust Drive-In offers a unique and nostalgic cinema experience, with an excellent café. • The Burdekin Theatre - a proscenium arch theatre offering arts and entertainment events year round. • In neighbouring Home Hill, the Ashworths Rock Shop, a gemstone, rock and fossil heaven. Ayr and Home Hill host a number of exciting annual events including the Burdekin Water Festival, Burdekin Races and Sweet Days, Hot Nights, which incorporates the First Fire of the crushing season, Burdekin Cultural Fair and the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships. A rich network of creeks and mangrove-lined estuaries make the area ideal for fishing and crabbing. The Burdekin is a known hotspot for fighting fish, barramundi, mangrove jack and trevally. The surrounding wetlands offer excellent birdwatching opportunities, with over 280 species recorded in the area, including the cotton pygmy-goose, which is listed as endangered in New South Wales. Alva Beach nearby offers miles of pristine sandy coastline, a popular spot for beach fishing, birdwatching and windsurfing. It's also a launching point for a dive tour to the world famous dive wreck on the Great Barrier Reef, the 'SS Yongala' - Australia’s largest and most intact historic shipwreck.
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Ayr Nature Display
The Ayr Nature Display is Australia's finest, preserved collection of butterflies, moths, beetles, crustaceans, seashells, reptiles, rocks, timber, aboriginal stone implements and fossils, especially ammonites, all under one roof. The Ayr Nature Display was conceived and arranged by Jess and Allan Ey. The display was opened to the public in 1966. The experience begins as you walk past feature walls decorated with North Queensland rocks at the front and the entrance of the display. 9,400 slabs cut with a lapidary saw were used. After traversing the entrance, you will walk into an exceptional display of thousands of specimens housed amazingly in a 4.9-metre by 28.4-metre room.
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Balabite
Balabite invites you to eat well with a mosaic of flavours. Balabite means to take a bite from Israeli street food to take a bite from authentic food. Food that conjures happiness, is comforting and doesn’t require any special formalities. At Balabite you can find cooked and grilled food, koftas, a variety of hummus, grilled falafel, homemade pita bread, special salads and dips and above all else, the mouthwatering smell of aromatics spices. Dine In and Takeaway, Enjoy!
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Balgal Beach
Balgal Beach forms part of the popular Northern Beaches district of Townsville North Queensland. Offering a superb sand beach and secure swimming in the stinger net from November to May, Balgal is ideal for a relaxing day by the ocean or a fun way to spend time with the whole family. The area is also a renowned river fishing location. For those wishing to explore deeper and head out to the Great Barrier Reef, Balgal Beach provides excellent boat ramp facilities and easy access to the spectacular Palm Island group. There are a number of licensed cafés and accommodation available in the area including holiday units and designated tent camping and vehicle camping areas.
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Balgal Beach Holiday Units
Balgal Beach Holiday Units are beachfront, self-contained and set in tropical gardens around the pool and barbecue area. Relax in paradise - strolling along the beach, in the pool, or playing golf at the local club. Nature lovers can observe up to 140 species of birds and 13 species of native frogs seasonally. Enjoy the free tour looking for nocturnal wildlife with torches. Terry and Roslyn have owned the property since 2003 and have created eco-friendly gardens which are a haven for wildlife. Initiatives such as removing cane toads assist in the everyday conservation of the natural environment. They are on-site to personally assist with enquiries and also enjoy just having a chat:) Balgal Beach - a Townsville northern beaches suburb - is located 50 kilometres north of Townsville Central Business District and is central for day trips to Ingham, Wallaman Falls, Paluma or numerous nearby islands. The combination of well-equipped units, peaceful location and family friendly atmosphere ensure a relaxed stay. Looking for a place to stay to relax and unwind? - Here's your getaway to 'relax in paradise'. Licensed eateries, shop and post office, fuel, boat ramp and stinger enclosure are all within a five minutes drive.
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Base Magnetic Island
Base Backpackers is located right on the beach and is the only place to Stay and Play on Magnetic Island There is a choice of dorm rooms at Base from mixed dorms to the female sanctuary dorms which includes a sanctuary pamper package on arrival. The campsite (no tent provided) also has sea views! Camping site rates are based per person, not per tent. You must bring your own tent! The double rooms at Base Magnetic Island are situated right on the rocks overlooking the ocean, you will not believe the view from your room! The Island bar has extensive decks overlooking the water, spend a lazy afternoon sipping on a drink and take in the magnificent views Base has to offer. By night the party scene comes alive with funky tunes and awesome bar games to keep the crowd entertained. The Island bar at Base is the best party bar on the island!
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Beachside Magnetic Harbour Apartments
Beachside Magnetic Harbour holiday apartments are located on the marina in Nelly Bay Magnetic Island. With ocean, harbour and parkland views from these near new luxury one, two or three bedroom apartments you will be sure to have a happy and memorable holiday on this island paradise. Close to shops, restaurants public transport and a short stroll from the ferry terminal.
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Bedarra
When you just want to retreat from the world, there is no better place to escape to than the all-inclusive haven of Bedarra. With just ten villas hidden amongst 45 hectares of tropical rainforest, Bedarra offers solitude, privacy and sublime views over the turquoise waters of the Great Barrier Reef, with a maximum of 20 guests. The open terrace restaurant, bar and lounge are the heart and soul of Bedarra, where guests indulge in the delicious and ever-changing menu, or legendary open bar. Enjoy a candlelit dinner on a private beach, pack a gourmet hamper in your own dinghy for a romantic picnic on one of the nearby deserted islands, or book the entire resort for a bespoke island experience. Sea kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, snorkelling, fishing, tennis and self-guided interactive walks are all on offer, should you wish to leave your sundeck. Outer Great Barrier Reef snorkelling or scuba trips, or deep sea fishing charters can also be arranged. Bedarra lies 10 kilometres off the coast from Mission Beach in Tropical North Queensland. Road transfers from Cairns take approximately two hours, with daily launch transfers from Mission Beach. Alternatively, 45 minute heli-transfers are available from Cairns airport.
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Best of Magnetic
Welcome to Best of Magnetic, Magnetic Island's No.1 accommodation provider. On their site, you can browse and book 160 of the best holiday properties on Magnetic Island, all exclusively managed by Best of Magnetic. Enjoy accurate real-time availability, fast booking and instant confirmations. The Best of Magnetic team can provide you with the perfect holiday in wonderful homes, apartments and villas - many with beautiful water views and only steps to the beach. Best of all, Best of Magnetic guarantees the lowest tariff on every one of its beautiful holiday properties. Their holiday team of dedicated island locals lead by Renae Hay are Magnetic Island experts. They are more than happy to chat with you to find the perfect place for you to enjoy your time on Magnetic Island. By sharing some information about your holiday plans they will be more than happy to go through options to consider to ensure a memorable experience that you will want to repeat time and time again. You'll also find on the website is full of information on over 100 activities, restaurants, cafes, car hire and service providers. When you stay with Best of Magnetic, you’ll enjoy complete customer service. In addition to special accommodation, they offer extra services for your Magnetic Island Holiday. The team is here to create exceptional holidays for you and your group.
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Betty Blue and The Lemon Tart
Zomato users recommend Coffee and Eggs Benny at Betty Blue and The Lemon Tart. Most of the visitors also appreciated the Friendly Staff. Betty Blue and The Lemon Tart is located at 8/95 Denham Street. It is rated 3.5 by 113 Zomato users. Serves Breakfast, Coffee and Tea. The average cost for 2 mains and 2 beverages here is A$20 approximately. Listing provided in partnership with Zomato
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Big4 Aussie Outback Oasis Holiday Park
Big4 Aussie Outback Oasis is a popular accommodation choice for visitors or workers to the Charters Towers region. The property is set on 10 acres of parkland and is a birdwatchers paradise. Opened in early 2000, the park has been immaculately maintained over the past 15 years. They have 20 Cabins with five styles to choose from. From their Family Chalets or Studio Villas to their Workers Cabins, they provide the very best in quality and cleanliness for their guests. The Villas are self-contained and well equipped for longer stays with modern furnishings. Free wi-fi is available to all guests. Foxtel is connected to all rooms. Guests can also take advantage of the 21 metre resort style pool and saltwater rock pool or just relax on their deck overlooking the beautiful gardens. Caravan sites are a combination of large slab or grass sites with many being drive-through. They cater for all types of rigs - small, big and enormous. You'll love using their spotlessly clean amenities and laundry. In the winter months, the Park plays host to guest entertainers, Meet and Greet afternoons by the camp fire and themed Meal Nights.
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BIG4 Rowes Bay Beachfront Holiday Park
BIG4 Rowes Bay Beachfront Holiday Park truly has the premier location in Townsville, offering a spectacular beachfront outlook with stunning views of Magnetic Island. Only a short distance from the popular Strand or the city centre, they offer all your caravan, camping and accommodation needs in beautiful Tropical North Queensland. They are Townsville's top tourist park, a family park with all the mod cons and are really big on customer service. Their accommodation features modern Two Bedroom Deluxe Villas and Motel Style Studio Rooms, as well as open plan Villas with ensuites, and Cabins, with or without ensuites. Many are well positioned to take advantage of the beautiful sea views and breeze the location provides. For recreational vehicles such as caravans, motorhomes, campervans, camper trailers as well as tents, they have fully serviced, powered sites and large multi use unpowered grassy sites. All the sites are set in cool tropical surrounds and are conveniently located to one of three amenities blocks, swimming pool, playground and camp kitchen. They can even help you with tickets for local tours and attractions!
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Brandon Heritage Precinct
If your interests include machinery or history, make sure you visit the Brandon Heritage Precinct. With plenty on display, the complex is the base of the Burdekin Machine Preservationists. This group of machinery enthusiasts are happy to welcome visitors to view their collection of machinery, tractors and other relevant items of interest. The Brandon Heritage Precinct contains a Workshop area, Steam Shed and Blacksmith Shop and displays a collection of machinery that was used in the Burdekin District. The Burdekin Machine Preservationists have completed their restoration project of a 1910 Marshall C Class Tractor. This tractor, which is on display at the complex, is the only one of its class left in the world. Tours can be taken through the complex on Mondays between 9am and 4pm when the Burdekin Machine Preservationists are in attendance. Suggested entry is gold coin donation. They have a wealth of mechanical knowledge, so feel free to ask lots of questions.
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Breakwater Marina
Conveniently located close to the CBD, adjacent to lush parklands and dining precincts, Breakwater Marina is open seven days a week with a self serve 24-Hour Fuel Wharf. With 325 berths, they cater for Long Term and Short Term agreements for boats up to 45 metres. The all-tide easy access Fuel Wharf dispenses Unleaded, Low, Mid or High-Flow Diesel, with five kilogram, ten kilogram and block Ice also available. They can even fill/top up your Gas bottles and drop them back down to your berth on request. A Courtesy Car is also available for two hour bookings for their Marina guests. 24 Hour Fuel – Cyclone Rated – Tropical Destination – Adjacent to Parklands and Precincts – Liveaboards Welcome – Year-round Calendar of Events (post COVID19) – Vibrant, Social Community
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Bridgewater Q
Discover Townsville's newest restaurant and bar perched on the edge of the Ross offering panoramic water and city views over to Melton Hill. The restaurant welcomes you with a mix of sleek modern interiors and cool coastal Australian design. This stylish yet relaxed atmosphere strikes the perfect tone. The Bridge Bar offers a more casual experience with the best seat in the city to take in the views and the incredible sunsets. Locally owned by chef/restaurateurs, Matt Merrin and Ty Samuel enjoy working together to create beautiful seasonal menus for their guests to enjoy.
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Broadwater camping area, Abergowrie State Forest
Broadwater camping area, in Abergowrie State Forest, provides a large, open, grassy setting surrounded by tall, open eucalypt forests. Broadwater has covered picnic areas with gas barbecues, picnic tables, toilets and cold showers. Choose from short walks, swimming, birdwatching, or just relax and enjoy the peace and tranquillity that the forest has to offer. Large open areas cater for large groups, making it a popular destination for school groups during the week. Camping permits are required, and fees apply. A tag with your booking number must be displayed at your campsite. Book your campsite and purchase your camping permit in advance. Bookings can be made on-line, over the counter or by phone. Note that self-registration is no longer available. Fires are permitted in the fire rings provided. Campers need to bring firewood as it is no longer supplied and must not be collected from Abergowrie State forest. Image credits: Qld Govt
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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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Bungalow Bay Koala Village
Bungalow Bay Koala Village is a large, friendly and stylish YHA backpacker hostel, set in the heart of Magnetic Islands National Park. The advanced eco accredited village offers guests an insight to their community based island on the Great Barrier Reef, easily accessible from Townsville with 17 ferry services daily. Bungalow Bay offers guests the following experiences. A frame bungalow accommodation for up to 150 guests, Powered Camp Sites, Deck bar and tour desk. Boutique Koala Park within the village - offering three daily educational wildlife tours with rangers and Breakfast with the koalas held three mornings per week. Hold a Koala, cuddle a wombat and wrap a python around you with their experienced rangers. Magnetic Island is all about the wildlife - come and explore with them! Walking trails through National Parks. 23 secluded bays and beaches. Spot Koalas in the wild in their population of 800. Hire a four wheel drive to explore the island. Snorkel the fringing reef. Visit the outer barrier reef departing from Magnetic Island.
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Burdekin
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 Burdekin region is one of the only districts in Australia which still employs the traditional practice of burning cane prior to harvesting. During crushing season, the Burdekin horizon is often lit up by the spectacular sight of these cane fire burns. The widely-renowned Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships are held within the region, giving spectators the opportunity to walk through a paddock of burnt sugarcane, enjoy the food, drinks and activities on offer for the whole family and witness the pure grit and determination as competitors cut through tonnes of burnt sugarcane. 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 boutique shopping and a laid-back lifestyle. The Burdekin River Bridge, which links Ayr and Home Hill, is the districts best known landmark. Known as the Silver Link, the 1,103 metre crossing is the only bridge in Australia without a solid footing and is longer than the Sydney Harbour Bridge. An Engineering Heritage National Landmark award was unveiled of the southern side of the bridge in 2010. The district is a well known fishing mecca, with access to barramundi, mud crabs, other estuary species and off-coast reef fishing. The Burdekin is also the closest point to the world famous SS Yongala wreck. Ranked as one of the top 10 dive sites in the world, the SS Yongala gives divers first hand encounters with manta rays, bull sharks, turtles and barracudas. If you are seeking a more relaxed experience while in the Burdekin take a swim or relax at Alva Beach.
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Burdekin Auto Festival
A three day event with up to 200 classic cars, hot rods and motorcycles on display including three on site driving events, dancing, live entertaintment and competitions. To keep up-to-date with the event details, please like the Burdekin Cruisers Car Club Inc on Facebook.
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Burdekin Cascades Caravan Park
Burdekin Cascades Caravan Park is centrally located within a couple of blocks from the Ayr Central Business District, near the theatre and library and next to the public pool. It offers a range of accommodation options including ensuite cabins, budget cabins, caravan and tent sites as well as drive thru sites. The shady park has a camp kitchen as well as barbecue facilities. Burdekin Cascades Caravan park is perfect for a relaxing stay.
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Burdekin Diorama
The Burdekin Diorama is a shady location to stretch your legs and discover the Burdekin's rich heritage. Easy to find, it's an interesting stop with pleasant surrounds. The Burdekin delta sits atop an amazing resource - the aquifer, a ground source of fresh water replenished by the Burdekin River. The Burdekin Diorama explains this managed system through maps, photos, diagrams and charts. Excellent resources and hard working people are what it takes to make a region prosper and the Burdekin district knows the good fortune of both. The local sugar cane industry, with its original hand cane cutters, plays a major role in the area's history and prosperity. The Burdekin Diorama provides a glimpse into the journey of the Burdekin's sugar cane industry. Five stainless steel informational panels shine a further light on the people, events and work that impacted the region's history. The Burdekin Diorama is located near Home Hill's Inkerman Sugar Mill, on the southern side of the Burdekin River Bridge and is just over an hour’s drive south of Townsville.
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Burdekin Gateway Visitor Information Centre
The Burdekin Gateway Visitor Information Centre is located on Railway Avenue in Home Hill. Situated behind the Home Hill Comfort Stop, it's the ideal place to call in when first arriving in town. The friendly and knowledgeable local staff can provide advice on what to see and do, and where to eat in the Burdekin. As an accredited Visitor Information Centre they are able to provide travel information including brochures, itineraries and maps. Free wi-fi is also available. The Centre is air-conditioned, and houses part of a photographic collection from the Lower Burdekin Historical Society. See incredible photos and information from the construction of the Burdekin Bridge.
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Burdekin Growers Race Day
Burdekin Growers Race Day has cemented its place in the 2020 North Queensland Events Calendar, celebrating their nineteenth year for the event this year. The day has been hailed as 'the best tropical race day in North Queensland' and boasts one of the states richest fashions on the field prize packages. Their local produce growers display their fruit and vegetables and at the end of the day patrons are invited to take a box of produce home with them. They anticipate another excellent crowd of in excess of 3000 patrons to be in attendance at the track once again this year. Please note that this event is for people aged 18 years and older only.
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Burdekin Junior Netball Carnival
The Burdekin Netball Association will this year be holding its annual junior carnival at their Association courts at 56 Twelfth Avenue, Home Hill. Teams from all over the North Queensland region will diverge on the Burdekin with an expected 400 competitors preparing to take to the courts.
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Burdekin Readers and Writers Festival
The focus of the “Ignite Your Mind” Burdekin Readers’ and Writers’ Festival has always been to bring together Australia’s best authors so residents and visitors could enjoy an intimate weekend of words, while also enjoying the delights of this beautiful region.
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Burdekin River Bridge
The Burdekin River Bridge is the district's best known landmark. Locally known as the Silver Link, it is a road and rail bridge which also has a pedestrian walkway. The bridge makes an excellent subject for architectural photos or a great location for holiday snaps. Taking 10 years to complete, the bridge was opened in 1957. It replaced a low level traffic bridge and a rail bridge. Remnants of the old rail bridge can be seen just downstream from the Burdekin River Bridge. Visitors wanting to experience walking across the Burdekin River Bridge are asked to park near the Burdekin Diorama. This is on the southern side of the bridge. You can then walk along the pedestrian walkway onto the bridge. During the crushing (sugar cane harvesting season) this gives you a good view over the sugar cane bins in the holding yard of the Inkerman Sugar Mill. For more detailed information on the Burdekin River Bridge, see the Burdekin Diorama, or call into the Gateway Visitor Information Centre in Home Hill.
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Burdekin Sugar Rush
The Burdekin Sugar Rush is the signature running event for the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club. The event not only showcases the spectacular features of the Burdekin Shire, but also celebrates the role that fun and fitness has in the community.. The event attracts running enthusiasts from around the region (including Townsville, Cairns, Charters Towers, Whitsundays and Mackay) and also has a key focus of attracting first time competitors through the provision of a half marathon (21 kilometres), five and ten kilometre fun run, team challenge and kids fun run. Most participants take part for the personal challenge, the experience of a vibrant community event and embracing an active and healthy lifestyle. The Rush Aims to: Create a signature running event for the district. Profile the Burdekin’s quality health and fitness facilities which enhance the visitor experience, which will in turn increase economic activity for the district. Promote to visitors that participating is an excellent way to experience the district’s wonderful lifestyle. Sugar Rush Start Times: 6.30am 21 kilometres. 7.15am 10 kilometres. 7.30am 5 kilometres, Seniors, Juniors Under16 and Pram Push.
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Burdekin Theatre
Located in the main street of Ayr - only one hour's drive south of Townsville - sits one of Australia's finest little proscenium arch Theatres. Every year, the Burdekin Theatre plays host to hundreds to live performances, conferences, meetings, festivals, exhibitions and local events. The Burdekin Theatre is undeniably the home of arts and entertainment in the Burdekin. Ensure you leave enough time before or after attending the live performance, conference or meeting as there is a number of art pieces to discover within the Theatre grounds.
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Burdekin Visitor Information Centre
The recently redeveloped Burdekin Visitor Information Centre is located in Plantation Park on the Bruce Highway in Ayr. It is about an hour's drive south from Townsville, and an hour and fifteen minutes north of Bowen. With lots of parking space for caravans and motor homes, Plantation Park makes an excellent spot to break your trip and consider your options. Staffed by skilled and knowledgeable locals, this accredited Visitor Information Centre can provide advice on things to see, things to do and where to eat. The centre offers up-to-date travel information including maps, brochures and itineraries. Free WIFI internet access is provided, and now operating as a Driver Reviver site, free tea and coffee is available. The friendly volunteers are ready to welcome visitors to the district.
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Burdekin Water Festival
Celebrating the abundance of water in the district. The Burdekin Water Festival is one of the longest running festivals in Queensland. The celebrations include a wide variety of exciting events that encompass the whole community. This includes an art exhibition that features an extensive display of artworks various mediums created by local artists.
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Bush 2 Beach Camper Trailer Hire
They are a Townsville based family business specialising in hiring quality off road camper trailers that withstand the harshest conditions. They have a large range of Kimberley Kampers to choose from which are iconic to Australian Off Road adventuring! They also offer a locally made All Terrain Bartel Camper trailer which can be towed by most family cars, also perfect for off roading. Bush 2 Beach Camper Trailer hire are here to provide your home away from home so you can escape to the great outdoors, get back to nature, enjoy some quality family time or take an adventure of a lifetime!
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Bushland Beach
Bushland Beach is a beautiful stretch of beach in a suburban area, with visitor accommodation and facilities available. Ideal for fishing, swimming, walking and water activities. Low tide uncovers an old wooden shipwreck. The beach is well serviced with a resort, barbecue facilities, playgrounds and a boat ramp. Bushland Beach is part of the Northern Beaches area of Townsville, located 25 minutes drive from Townsville's central business district. Access to Bushland Beach is via a turnoff along the Bruce Highway.
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Canefield Ashes Carnival
The Canefield Ashes brings the excitement of 20/20 cricket to the sugar capital of Australia. The competition has quickly developed into a great weekend of cricket, mateship and socialising. The two-day contest is held over a weekend and attracts teams from the Burdekin as well as Bowen, Proserpine and Charters Towers.
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Cannon Park
Cannon Park is a lifestyle centre including a six screen cinema complex and a fantastic selection of cafes and restaurants. Located diagonally across from Willows Shopping Centre on Hervey Range Road and Riverway, it also houses Townsville's only Kingpin Bowling Lounge and laser skirmish and is nearby to a roller skate rink and indoor sports complex.
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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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Castle Hill
Just metres short of a mountain, Castle Hill is the giant pink granite monolith that stands proud in the centre of Townsville - a perfect place for visitors to orientate themselves. Castle Hill offers vehicle access as well as a number of popular walking tracks, which are frequented by more than 2,500 locals a day! The 360-degree views of Townsville at the top are well worth the journey. Be sure to have a camera on hand, particularly for sunrise or sunset as these are photo opportunities that shouldn't be missed. Apart from being an iconic centrepiece for the city and a lookout for spectacular scenic views, Castle Hill has a significant history. The Hill's vantage was used by visiting American soldiers during World War II. According to local legend, the visitors famously offered to demolish the hill and use the rock to build a bridge to Magnetic Island. A World War II observation bunker sits on one corner of the Hill reminding visitors of Castle Hill's military history. Castle Hill facilities include car parking, public amenities, drink fountains and shaded seating to enjoy while taking in some of the best views of the city and across to Magnetic Island.
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Centenary Park
Step back in time to the days of the gold rush when you visit Centenary Park in Charters Towers. This popular park space features a gold discovery monument and a collection of sculptures created by Queensland Artist, Hugh Anderson. Make sure you take a picture of the Bat Statue created and designed as part of the 2013 LATTE Exhibition. Centenary Park features an interesting history, with the area first announced for public purposes in 1888. In 1941 the last Gazette Order in Council set aside the area as a reserve for park purposes and named it "Sayers Park" after Robert John Sayers. From the city's very early days, Centenary Park was called "Harvey's Reserve", no doubt because Joseph Harvey, a local butcher, built and lived in "Tower Villa", an old Queenslander style home that still faces out over the north east corner of the Reserve. During 1972 the Park was re-named "Centenary Oval" as part of the city's centenary celebrations. Centenary Park features picnic tables, toilets, gas barbecues, a children's playground, liberty swing, lit walking tracks and is always cool and shady.
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Centenary Park Charity Markets
On the fourth Sunday of each month, local producers gather at Centenary Park to sell fresh produce, home made crafts, jewellery, clothing and just about anything else you can think of. Stroll through the beautiful surrounds of Centenary Park and chat to a local, with over 50 stalls each month and the local Country Music Club providing live music. Each month the markets raise funds for a nominated charity.
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Central Village
Central Village showcases sidewalk cafes, open air dining, a pedestrian plaza, as well as abundant patron car parking. It's an ideal location to start your night out or take the family for dinner and a movie. Central Village includes: Birch Carroll and Coyle Cinemas, Flamin Good Pizza, Grand Central Cafe, Guzman Y Gomez, Hog's Breath Cafe, Sushi Kiyo, Snap Fitness and Touch of Utopia.
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Charlie's Hill
Constructed by the RAAF in 1943, the No 211 Radar Station on Charlie’s Hill was one of twenty radar installations along the North Queensland coastline. These operated to give an early warning of approaching enemy aircraft during World War II. When visiting this historic site, igloos of reinforced concrete which provided bomb-proof protection for the radar equipment can still be seen. The wooden towers which supported the transmitting and receiving aerials have been removed. However, foundations from various structures near the igloos may still be found. The buildings are listed in the Queensland Heritage Register because of the site’s historical and military significance. Charlie’s Hill is a six minute drive south of Home Hill. Travelling along the Bruce Highway, look for the signs on the left, just after Iyah Creek. Turn onto Charlie’s Hill Road and travel about 1.5 kilometres, until the hill is visible on the right. The access to the hill from the road is an unsealed track. The site is maintained by the Burdekin Shire Council.
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Charters Towers
Take a step back in time and discover the enchanting town of Charters Towers, just an hour and half west of Townsville. Driving through the streets of Charters Towers is like viewing a living montage of Australian history and heritage. Gold was first discovered in the outback town of Charters Towers in 1871 by Aboriginal horse boy, Jupiter Mosman. It quickly became a booming gold rush town, with over 65 hotels and more than 25,000 people moving to the region. Charters Towers become the second largest town in Queensland and was renowned for having everything a civilised person could want and as a result nicknamed "The World." Today you can still see evidence of those early days with many museums, tours and colonial architecture depicting the past. Charters Towers offers a number of magnificent heritage buildings which are testament to the prosperity of the early 1980s. The heritage listed Stock Exchange Arcade, The World Theatre, City Hall and the Post Office Tower will have you reaching for your camera. The cemetery, which was established in 1895, is the resting place of Jupiter Mosman. Don't forget to visit the iconic drive-in cinema for flicks under the stars, the Towers Hill lookout for vast outback landscapes, the Venus Gold Battery to discover the largest surviving Battery relic in Australia and pan for gold at the Miners Cottage. For something a little different and a truly outback encounter head to Texas Longhorn Wagon Tours and Safaris to sample damper and billy tea and meet 'JR,' the 2013 Guinness World Record holder for the bull with the longest horns.
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Charters Towers Cemetery
Charters Towers Cemetery was established in 1895. It is the resting place for a number of interesting local characters including Jupiter Mosman who, as local lore has it, was part of the party that discovered gold at Charters Towers; Doctor Leonard Redmond who discovered Australian dengue fever; Fredrick Pfeiffer owner of the rich Day Dawn PC Mine and James Knenniff who was the last bushranger in Queensland. The Charters Towers Visitor Information Centre has the cemetery records for both the Pioneer and Charters Towers cemeteries. If it is family history you are seeking, why not contact the Charters Towers and Dalrymple Archives Group or the Charters Towers Family History Association Incorporated? These groups aim to promote and preserve research into local and family history for the benefit of the community.
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Charters Towers Memorial Cenotaph
Queenslander's loved their soldier statue, known as the 'Digger', symbolising innocence, youth, heroism, courage and mateship. When Charters Towers' war memorial was refurbished and rededicated on 11 November 2005, the cenotaph included a solemn soldier, head bowed and rifle pointing downwards. It was originally unveiled to honour those who fought in WWI and WWII, in November 1955. At that time it included an electric light in the shape of a flame, burning continually atop the nine metre tall stone pillar. Memorials were rare in Australia before WWI. The outpouring of grief at the loss of 60,000 young Australian men, buried where they fell in Europe, the Middle East and northern Africa, created a wave of monuments, from soldier statues to memorial parks, rolls of honour to empty tomb-like pavilions. The roll of honour provides an insight into local patriotism of the day, all who enlisted were volunteers willing to fight for the British Empire.
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Charters Towers Miner's Cottage
The Miner's Cottage is located in the historic precinct of old Charters Towers. Established in 1992 by the current owner, this quaint little cottage has become a "must see" attraction when visiting the city. Every year, over a thousand school children participate in the popular "gold panning" activity. for REAL alluvial gold. The cottage houses a private collection of unique curios from the district. Recently, a fully functioning blacksmith shop has been added to the range of things to experience. Handmade items are available for sale to help fund the enterprise. Bus groups are treated to a fascinating insight into the collection by the owner. Highly regarded on TripAdvisor due to the personal nature of the tours. The cottage is available for group bookings all year round. Opening hours vary depending on the time of year. The building itself is of historical significance, being a workers cottage with connections to early pioneering families. The tour guide is an experienced gold prospector with extensive knowledge in where to find gold. Gold Detectors are available for hire - on request, and training is part of the hire. This year, the blacksmith's shop has been commissioned to create a replica steam train/tram.
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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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Charters Towers Visitor Information Centre
The Charters Towers Visitor Information Centre is located at the intersection of Gill and Mosman Streets right next to City Hall. The Visitor Information Centre is currently open Monday - Friday. Built-in 1880 at a cost of 2350 Pounds, the information centre started its life as the Union Bank and is just one example of the many stunning heritage buildings which line the streets of Charters Towers. Ask for a heritage walking map so that you can see first-hand the expert handiwork of the stonemasons and builders of the 19th century. Or, hire a CD or USB which will take you on a self-drive tour around the city while providing you with excellent commentary and information. This accredited visitor information centre offers a one-stop-shop for travel information including maps, brochures and tour bookings. Staffed by skilled and knowledgeable locals, the Charters Towers Visitor Information Centre can provide advice on things to see, do, where to sleep and where to eat.
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City Lane Townsville
The dining scene in Townsville North Queensland has come alive with Townsville's first creative laneway precinct, City Lane, offering a bevy of dining options to tempt everyone's taste buds. City Lane is a sophisticated, New York inspired precinct complete with street art, funky décor and an atmosphere to match! The City Lane precinct truly is the day to night dining solution. The seamless combination of a somewhat contrasting collection of bars and eateries just works! City Lane has brought sophistication, vibrancy and style into the heart of Townsville City and is a 'must visit' while in Townsville North Queensland. Dining options within City Lane include: Born Wild, Donna Bionda, Sakana, Shaw and Co, The Courtyard, TheTaphouse and Zizigo Korean Cuisine.
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Civic Guest House
The Civic Guest House is a friendly charming hostel conveniently located in a quiet street of the Townsville's Central Business District. They offer clean, quiet, safe and cosy accommodation for the traveller looking for quality cheap accomodation. Free Wi-Fi, free transport to/from the Ferry and Greyhound bus terminal. The Civic Guest House Backpackers Hostel gives you a broad choice of room options ranging from shared dorms to private double rooms with ensuite, all with free linen. Family Rooms and Group Bookings Welcome. They consider a friendly service a must.
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Claredale Pastures
Claredale Pastures is proud to boast a real Paddock to Plate Café, which offers all patrons a genuine, as their owner likes to say, farm to fork experience. Their focus is on home-style cooking done well. They also have accommodation and venue hire available, as well as the ability to provide off site catering options.
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Classique Bed and Breakfast
Classique Bed and Breakfast is a historic Queenslander style accommodation, different from a motel or hotel. Enjoy old fashioned hospitality with a complimentary tropical breakfast in a tranquil setting on the deck. You are welcome to play pool, snooker or darts in the games room or relax in the outdoor spa. This magnificent old Queenslander has hoop pine timber floors, high pressed metal ceilings and French doors set into bay windows on the enclosed veranda. All the bedrooms have queen size beds and all are en suite. Castle Hill is on their doorstep and the property is located only minutes away from the city and beaches. Day trips to the rainforest, gold fields and Great Barrier Reef are available. Local attractions include golf, museums, environmental parks and casino. A visit to the Billabong Sanctuary, Reef HQ Aquarium or a trip to Magnetic Island is recommended. Townsville is the host of many events and festivals, such as Townsville V8 Supercars, Australian Festival of Chamber Music, Magnetic Island Race Week, Townsville Fashion Festival, WNBL Townsville Fire, and North Queensland Cowboys.
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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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Cleveland Bay Aviation Charter
Cleveland Bay Aviation has several General Aviation aeroplanes that can be used to transport as little as one person or up to seven people to any where in the country. Day, Night, Rain, or Sunshine. Cleveland Bay Aviation Charter can operate from before dawn to after dark. Getting to and from outback camp sites, to the peninsula. The pilots that onboard have had experience out in regional and Western Queensland, even as far wide New Zealand and Africa.
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Coral Coast Tourist Park Townsville
A tropical, friendly, relaxed atmosphere awaits you! With a variety of air conditioned cabin styles on offer, from budget units to self-contained cabins and villas (including Pet Friendly options) there is sure to be something to suit all tastes and budgets. With a selection of shady powered sites to accommodate most caravans, motorhomes and camper trailers, the choice is made easy. Enjoy a swim in the sparkling salt water swimming pool, create culinary masterpieces in the spacious and well appointed camp kitchen, or just relax with a cool drink enjoying the last rays of the afternoon sun as the gentle evening tropical breezes waft past. Watch your favourite sporting event on Foxtel in the Television Room or travel to another time and place as your immerse yourself in a book from the lending library. Guest favourite ‘Meet and Greet Campfire’ held each Wednesday night during the winter season. Located only 12 minutes to the Strand Beachfront and boasting easy access to local tourist attractions, Coral Coast caters to all. Choose The Coral Coast Tourist Park in Townsville as your base in the sun while you explore this vibrant and eclectic city!
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Cotters Market Townsville
Townsville's most iconic farmers market for over 35 years! From fresh herbs to hand made goods, Cotters Market is your one-stop to taste and experience the real Townsville! Every Sunday morning, in the heart of Townsville's Central Business District, enjoy live music, fresh foods and exotic goods.
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Cotters Markets
Discover North Queensland's freshest produce, award winning arts and crafts and a collection of local stalls, entertainment and gift ideas at Cotters Markets. Held every Sunday from 8.30am until 1pm. The markets offer ultra-fresh fruit and vegetables, stunning jewellery, original art works, massages, woodwork, stuffed toads, home-baked cakes, gifts for all occasions and entertainment. Come along and check it out!
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Crystal Creek Caravan Park
Their quiet seven hectare family owned park is situated along beautiful Crystal Creek in Mutarnee, Queensland, on the Bruce Highway. Relax by the pool, go for a walk on the property or go to the boat ramp in Crystal Creek for some fishing, it’s just a few minutes drive! They are the only caravan park close to Paluma National Park. Only a few minutes drive and you’ll find yourself at beautiful Big Crystal Creek en Paradise Waterhole. A wonderful area for birdwatching, hiking and swimming. The park also offers a shop and service station (with 24 hour fuel available) for your convenience. There is also more then enough space for large groups.
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Daggoombah Holiday House
Daggoombah is one of the only typical " Queenslanders" left in Arcadia. This quaint holiday House has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen, living and dining rooms, laundry facilities, barbecue plus a large balcony to relax and enjoy alfresco dining. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens with visits from the wildlife including kookaburra's, parrots and sometimes kangaroos. Only a 10 minute walk to beautiful Alma Bay and minutes away from shops and restaurants. Great location and character, this holiday house is the perfect Magnetic Island getaway.
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Dalrymple Sales Yards - Cattle Sales
Experience the thrill of a live cattle auction, held every Wednesday at the Dalrymple Sales Yards. The Charters Towers region is the largest cattle producing Local Government area in Australia with beef produced on 250 commercial properties running around 600,000 head of cattle collectively. Dalrymple Sales Yards sell over 100,000 head of store and prime cattle per annum and host North Queensland's premier bull and horse sales. The quality of the animals sold through the Dalrymple Sales Yards is evidenced by the recent sale of a bull which fetched a record price of AUD145000.
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Dan Gleeson Memorial Gardens
Throw down a picnic rug and relax by one of the many water features Dan Gleeson Memorial Gardens offers while spotting the array of wildlife nearby. These lush gardens are home to a diverse range of wildlife, from long neck turtles, mangrove jack, barramundi, eels, redclaw and prawns to bowerbirds, barking owls, fig birds, ducks, cormorants, egrets, butterflies and a range of beetles and lizards. Whether you are walking the dog or taking the kids out for a ride on their bikes or scooters, Dan Gleeson Memorial Gardens has a number of well maintained walking paths set amongst gorgeous scenery that is perfect for an afternoon stroll. Dan Gleeson Memorial Gardens offers ample parking, wheelchair access and barbecue facilities.
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Dinner under the Stars
Join us for a dinner under the stars at their Adventure Centre in Paluma. They are getting together for a social night before their last trail run event (Paluma Trail Run) in 2021 the next morning. The Feel Good Foodie will be catering for the night and offering their delicious meals (from AUD15). The event is BYO drinks and please RSVP before Thursday, 28 October.
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Discovery Parks - Townsville
Placed in the dry tropics and a sailing trip away from the koalas of Magnetic Island, Discovery Parks – Townsville (formerly BIG4 Walkabout Palms) is a magnificent resort among the palms. The town is your oyster (and the one on your plate is, too!) with a holiday itinerary that will leave a sparkle in your eye. Try wreck diving at SS Yongala, follow the city’s street art trail, and go on a bush to beach bareback riding tour around Horseshoe Bay. Tailor your getaway and choose from one of our spacious two-bedroom cabins and caravan sites. With attractions abound and facilities for the kids to play on, your stay at Discovery Parks – Townsville will keep each member of the family busy and fully content.
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Driftwood
"Driftwood" is a home with views across the Coral Sea to the horizon so you can savour a wonderful sunset moment. You can also take in the view of Townsville in the distance and the city lights in the evening and yet still feel a complete world away from everyone and everywhere else! This well appointed home can comfortably accommodate 6 adults and 4 children within 4 bedrooms, each ensuited and well appointed with not only air-conditioning but great cross ventilation to take advantage of the natural air-flow. Driftwood is part of the Magnetic Group's luxury property collection. This luxury, family holiday home has captured the true essence of feeling like the only place on a tropical island. Perfectly positioned on the sunset side of the Headland to capture a commanding view across the water. "Driftwood" is set on the most secluded and peaceful area of beautiful Nobby Headland amongst Magnetic lsland's granite boulders and natural bush. If offers you unparalleled quiet and privacy. There is also access to a small, secluded sandy bay below. Take the time to relax in the solar heated infinity pool, enjoy a chilled sundowner and let yourself "drift". This home is fully air-conditioned but has been built to capture the breeze, offering great cross ventilation.
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Enterprise Rent-A-Car - Townsville Airport
While Enterprise is new to Australia, they have been growing across the globe since 1957. Today, Enterprise is part of the largest car rental company in the world, with more than 1.5 million cars in service. Despite their size, they remain family-owned with one goal – to exceed your expectations for service and overall value. Give them a try and experience the Enterprise way of putting the customer first, at all times.
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eToro Rugby Championship | Wallabies v Argentina and New Zealand v South Africa
Watch worlds collide when Rugby giants clash in Australia. The Wallabies take on reigning world champions the Springboks, as well as international juggernauts the All Blacks and rising superpower Los Pumas this Spring, as the four teams go head to head for the eToro Rugby Championship trophy. Be there as the Wallabies kick-off against South Africa at 17:05 AEST. Following this, Argentina kicks off against New Zealand at 20:05 AEST for another blockbuster.
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Fish Inn At Rockpool
Fish Inn At Rockpool is located at 54 Howitt Street, North Ward. It is rated 3.2 by 21 Zomato users. Serves Coffee and Tea, Seafood, Modern Australian. The average cost for 2 mains and 2 beverages here is A$100 approximately. Listing provided in partnership with Zomato
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Fishing at Magnetic Island
Magnetic Island is an angler's dream with a catch virtually guaranteed! Sit back, throw in a line and enjoy the rush of reeling in your latest bite. What a catch it can be; 22-pound Coral Trout and 44-pound Spanish Mackerel are among the trophies happy fishermen have taken home. If you want to gain some local insight, take a fishing tour. This is also a great option to explore areas only accessible by boat. Alternatively, head to one of the local stores and grab some fresh bait to try your luck at one of the beaches, rocky points and inshore waters. In these spots you are likely to discover bream, flathead, whiting, queen fish and trevally; not to mention the incredible beach views and rocky settings the environment offers. Head to Nobby Head, the rocks of Bright Point or the Picnic Bay Jetty for some of the best fishing locations. If you have a boat some of the best fishing spots around Magnetic Island include Middle Reef, West Point, Orchard Rocks and Palmosa and Argonant wrecks near Horseshoe Bay. Boats are available for hire if required and boat ramps are located in Picnic, Nelly and Horseshoe Bays.
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Fishing on Hinchinbrook Island
Discover an island with a Jurassic outlook which abounds in flora, fauna, palm fringed beaches and extensive mangrove lined waterways. Hinchinbrook Island offers extensive flats and channel systems which are home to many prime tropical sportfish. This region boasts one of the few places in Australia where that much prized fly fishing adversary, the Permit (Snub Nosed Dart), can be targeted with some level of anticipation. Fishing with the majestic backdrop of Hinchinbrook Island is spectacular enough, but to be able to target good quality sportfish including barramundi, mangrove jacks, trevally, queenfish, salmon, fingermark, grunter and cod, makes this a fishing experience you'll never forget. Due to the magnificent mangrove environment, relative isolation in comparison to waters closer to Cairns and the lack of fishing pressure, this region is renowned for producing quality sportfish that are of a better average size than more heavily fished locations. The surrounding areas of Lucinda and Cardwell also offer great land based fishing with Duncan Wharf, Lucinda Wharf, Taylor's and Forrest Beaches being popular hot spots.
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Flinders Street East
Known as the restaurant and nightlife precinct of Townsville, you will find an excellent choice of international cuisine and fun bars and pubs to visit on Flinders Street East. The choices of restaurants range from Chinese, Japanese, Mexican and Italian as well as an Irish pub. Come along with family and friends for a great day out!
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Flinders Street Shopping
Make your way down Townsville's Flinders Street and discover local clothing designers, eclectic souvenirs and gifts, beauty options and a wide array of café and dining options. City Arcade is a new edition to the Flinders Street shopping collection, offering a selection of creative, alternative boutiques alongside sophisticated convenience service offerings.
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Forrest Beach
Escape life's hustle and bustle and spend some time relaxing on Forrest Beach. Enjoy the long sandy beach front which overlooks Orpheus Island and the Palm Island group, or take a swim in the patrolled beach which also features stinger net protection during the summer months. Forrest Beach has a hotel/motel, caravan park and self-contained units. There are a small number of shops where essential items can be purchased.
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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
This bay is a must do on Magnetic Island. Located in Arcadia, Geoffrey Bay has a number of activities suited to all age groups. The resident allied rock wallabies frequent Geoffrey Bay and can be often seen around sunrise and sunset jumping from rock to rock and greeting tourists. Recommended as one of the best 10 snorkelling spots in Queensland. Magnetic Island has developed two snorkel trails for visitors to enjoy. Before you head to the beach, pick up a self-guided snorkel trail card from one the surrounding retail outlets. The Geoffrey Bay Snorkel trail takes you to the Moltke wreck, and further passed a propeller off a WWII bomber jet. A variety of fish and coral life can be seen on the trail. Geoffrey Bay is a historic staple to Magnetic Island with the original car ferry ramp which is still used to this day. Follow underneath the teetering rock and make your way to the ruins of the old Arcadia Jetty. Don't forget to look over the edge and see if you can spot some of the tropical fish that frequent Geoffrey Bay.
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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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Grandma's
Grandma's is a home-style cooking and baking concept. They are bringing together flavours and loved recipes that have been passed down to them from real Grandma's and Grandpa's from all over the world. Their philosophy is Simple, real, fresh and healthy food. Food that makes you feel good and you can eat it every day. Always original loved recipes.
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Gregory Street
If you like shopping in independent boutiques and looking for the latest style in homewares you are going to love Gregory Street in Townsville. Running off The Strand, this street has an eclectic mix of boutiques, homewares, cafes and restaurants and you can spend an enjoyable few hours browsing through the stores. Revive with coffee and cake or a long lunch in one of the many cafes along the strip.
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Groper Creek
Groper Creek is a laidback location, where you can sit back, relax and unwind. You can launch your tinnie from the boat ramp, or fish from the jetty. The area is well known for its fantastic fishing and crabbing. Groper Creek is located towards the mouth of the Burdekin River about 15 kilometres from Home Hill. Head out along Groper Creek Road and you'll travel past sugar cane farms, and through a wetland area full of birds and wildlife. Have a look around the Groper Creek settlement, at the huts built high on stumps. The kiosk and the public phone box are also up high. Bring your camera, as these buildings have their own personality! With the caravan park on the banks of the creek, if you decide to stay longer, check in, set yourself up and enjoy the surroundings.
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Gubulla Munda
A popular place in the Burdekin for visitors to take photos is located in Plantation Park, Ayr. The giant carpet snake is an impressive feature, and makes a fantastic backdrop. This 60 metre artwork depicts Gubulla Munda, the Aboriginal totem and the protective spirit for the Birri Gubba people. Gubulla Munda holds sacred cultural and spiritual significance to the Traditional Owners. Also, there are several plaques and a memorial stone. These mark the remains of Birri Gubba ancestors re-interred at this sacred site. The Gudjuda Reference Group commissioned the large sculpture Gubulla Munda Dreaming, which was constructed in 2004. It was painted by aboriginal artists. The monument was created to celebrate and promote indigenous culture.
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Guy Sebastian’s T.R.U.T.H. Tour
Superstar and multi ARIA award-winning singer-songwriter Guy Sebastian is set to take his national T.R.U.T.H. Tour all across Australian capital cities and regional areas in April and May 2022! On the 2022 tour, fans will see for themselves how Guy Sebastian shines. They will be treated to a collection of Guy’s biggest smash hits including Bloodstone and global hit Battle Scars, as well as brand new music from the T.R.U.T.H. album including ARIA Song Of The Year and four time platinum mega smash Choir, the defiant Before I Go, new single Love on Display and the mesmerising power ballad Standing With You. With big songs, big ballads, amazing musicianship, heartfelt stories and of course, lots of dancing, joy and charismatic charm that is Guy Sebastian - this will be his greatest tour yet! $1 (plus GST) per ticket sold will be donated to The Sebastian Foundation who are doing a lot of work in the space of adolescent mental health which is so critical at the moment so you can feel doubly good about nabbing a ticket. You can check out the work they do at https://thesebastianfoundation.org
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Hand Cane Cutters
You are welcome to stop in at the Home Hill Showgrounds to see these larger than life statues for yourself. Completed in May 2016, the two Hand Cane Cutter sculptures represent the multicultural history of the Australian sugarcane industry. Indigenous, South Sea Islander and European Australians made an invaluable contribution to the prosperity of our sugar cane growing regions, including the Burdekin, which today produces the most sugar of any region in Australia. With funding for the project obtained through the Federal Government’s Indigenous Language and Arts Program, the local Gudjuda Reference Group Aboriginal Corporation’s indigenous artists were mentored by Dr Farvardin Daliri OAM in designing, constructing and painting the sculptures. The sculptures are 3.5 metres high and 20 tonnes heavy, and are made from steel and cement. Today, apart from small quantities of treated cane cut by hand for planting, sugarcane is harvested by machine. At the Home Hill Showgrounds, the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships is now held each year, where this skill of a bygone era is brought back to life. These beautifully crafted statues face the paddock where the Championships take place.
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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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Headland House
"Headland House" is a stunning family home and commands amazing views from Nobby Headland over Picnic Bay across the blue waters of the Coral Sea to Cape Cleveland and Townsville on the horizon. Surrounded by majestic hoop pines and granite boulders you will feel like you are the only family on Magnetic Island. This home is spectacular - you will appreciate every moment you are there and wonder how you will ever leave. Headland House is a landmark property on one of Magnetic Island's majestic granite headlands. You will feel a world away from everywhere else and believe you are the only people enjoying this piece of paradise. The timber decks offer wonderful space to embrace this location but every window holds a view that will enhance your Magnetic Island experience and holiday memory. This architecturally designed home has been planned to allow versatility for those who would like to stay. This amazing location is available for a couple seeking a luxurious home without the need to book the additional pavilions during their stay. The stunning pool is set surrounded by the unique Island features of hoop pines and granite boulders. You will feel suspended over Picnic Bay and yet with your own private track to the beachfront below it is only a two minute amble to the protected Picnic Bay beach and iconic jetty.
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Herbert River Museum
Learn about the history of the Hinchinbrook region and discover a treasure chest of historical artefacts at the Herbert River Museum. Located on Macrossan Street in Halifax, the Museum offers an interesting step back in time and is co-located with the local gallery. For those wanting to view more of their Local History, the Herbert River Museum and Gallery can be found in the old Shaw's Building, Macrossan Street, Halifax.
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Herveys Range Heritage Tea Rooms
Limited Opening hours during COVID-19 restrictions - refer to their social media or website for current opening hours. Located at the top of Hervey Range, the former Eureka Hotel built in 1865, has been restored and re-opened as the Herveys Range Heritage Tea Rooms. The scenic 25 minute drive from the edge of Townsville, leads visitors to one of only a few slab sided inns left standing in Australia. The tea rooms offers delicious food (breakfast, lunch and sweets) and great tea and coffee (including the infamous Kopi Luwak) within the heritage listed building or in the peaceful garden surrounds. A walking track takes visitors through native bush land to the top of the dis-used Greenvale railway line tunnel entrance. Their gift shop is stocked with local craft and produce. Bookings are highly recommended on weekends. Popular wedding venue, with intimate bush ceremony sites and rustic reception area.
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Hinchinbrook Island
Which Jurassic Island can only 40 people explore at any one time? Although the biggest island on the Great Barrier Reef, Hinchinbrook Island is completely uninhabited. To protect the Island's biodiversity and prevent damage to the environment just 40 people are permitted to stay at any one time. If you have a desire for adventure, Hinchinbrook Island is your ultimate playground. It offers spectacular hiking and camping along the famous 32 kilometre Thorsborne Trail, internationally rated one of the top 10 walks on the planet. You will discover rainforests of Milky Pine, Palm Figs, and vines, with more than 66 species of birds, 22 species of butterflies, 29 different mangroves and many varieties of fish and crustaceans. To start your hiking expeditions on Hinchinbrook Island take a short ferry ride or private charter from Lucinda or Cardwell. Another way to explore Hinchinbrook Island is by paddling along the outside coast in a kayak. Voted as one of the top 10 places to see by Kayak in Australia, the views are nothing short of spectacular and the long sandy beaches and extensive mangrove areas make Hinchinbrook Island an environmental haven for turtles, dugongs and many other marine creatures. Hinchinbrook Island is the perfect place to restore body, mind and spirit. This is the Island to choose if you want peace, beauty, tranquillity and a hint of adventure.
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Hinchinbrook Marine Cove Resort
Hinchinbrook Marine Cove Resort is the gateway to the Hinchinbrook Channel, Hinchinbrook Island National Park and the Great Barrier Reef itself. The Resort is the ultimate launching pad for fishing, boating, sailing activities in the region, and the perfect place to relax, unwind and enjoy the spectacular scenery. The perfect place to stay when walking the Thorsborne Trail, located right at the departure point, with the option of car storage while walking the trek. Bait,Tackle, Snacks and Gifts are available at the on site Shop.
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Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre
Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre is located on the Bruce Highway, south of Ingham. This accredited Visitor Information Centre offers a one-stop-shop for travel information, including maps, brochures, and itineraries. Staffed by skilled and knowledgeable locals, the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre can provide advice on the things to see, things to do and where to eat and can also book your Queensland National Park camping permits. The Centre is full of fun, interpretive and interactive displays as a prelude to exploring. It is your gateway to Hinchinbrook.
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Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Lounge
Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Lounge staff and volunteers conduct free and commercial Tours of TYTO Wetlands. The Commercial Tours have a minimum requirement of 4 Patrons and no maximum number. Free tours are available for local and regional school groups and are available at negotiated times. Contact Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Lounge for details.
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Home Hill
Situated on the southern side of the Burdekin Bridge (known as the Silver Link) with an economy driven by sugar and agriculture, Home Hill offers landscapes dominated by lush green cane fields as well as access to some of North Queensland's finest produce. Start your experience in Home Hill with panoramic views of the regions towns, farmlands, wetlands, waterways and coastline from Inkerman Hill. Take in the pristine beauty provided by nature's greens and blues and enjoy a skyline that seems to go on forever. Other attractions include the historic World War Two radar stations which can be found on Charlies Hill and for a step back in time take a stop at Tom's Toybox to view a private collection of working farm machinery from yesteryear. The township of Home Hill was established in 1913 from land carved out of the Inkerman Downs Station and is located just 12 kilometres south of Ayr. The two towns are linked via the Burdekin Bridge, the districts best known landmark standing at an impressive 1,103m long and larger than the Sydney Harbour Bridge. To walk across the famous landmark, park near the Lion's Diorama at the southern approach to the bridge and head to the pedestrian walkway. While in Home Hill, visit the Ashworth's Tourist Centre to discover murals that depict the district's rural life and view original Islander artworks at Zaro's Cultural Gallery. Visit the Silver Link Interpretive Centre, which opened in 2007 to mark the fiftieth anniversary of the Burdekin River Bridge. Located in the main street of Home Hill, the centre tells the history of the bridge through more than 120 photographs. The Comfort Stop in the centre of town is a clean, modern facility with free restroom, shower and barbecue. There is ample parking for caravans and motor homes.
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Home Hill Caravan Park
Home Hill Caravan Park is a small park with 25 sites located next to the Home Hill Swimming Pool and a few blocks from the library and shops. It offers a range of accommodation options including ensuite cabins, caravan and tent sites as well as drive thru sites. Barbecue facility is also available. In the last few years this park has had a number of upgrades including new amenities. Come for a visit including a free swim in the pool next door.
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Home Hill Comfort Stop
The Home Hill Comfort Stop includes all the facilities you need to enjoy a short break on your travels. Toilets, hot showers, barbecues, meal preparation benches and sinks, picnic tables, parents room and disabled bathroom. During the winter months from April through to September, the Comfort Stop is very popular, and it is best to arrive by lunchtime to secure your spot for the night. Parking for self-contained caravans, motor homes and campervans is available in Railway Avenue, the street behind the Comfort Stop. Visitors are allowed 48 hours free stop-over. Plenty of parking is available in Eighth Avenue at the front of the Comfort Stop if you are planning a brief stop to use the facilities. Look for the signs as you enter Home Hill. Whilst you are at the Comfort Stop, take your photo using the Shareable Moments Wall. Tag and upload them to your Facebook and Instagram accounts. Your friends will have a laugh to see you diving the Yongala Wreck or driving a tractor!
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Horseshoe Bay
Horseshoe Bay is the premier location for watersports on Magnetic Island offering activities to excite the whole family. Along the shores of Horseshoe Bay is an array of equipment hire options including jet skis, kayaks, stand up paddle boards and more! The Bay also provides a great swimming enclosure as well as fantastic fishing and sailing opportunities, along with a shady foreshore with magnificent views across the rocky outcrops and blue ocean waters. If you are looking for a new way to explore the Island, why not consider a horseback ride from the bush to the beach. Swim with your horse in the cool clear waters of the Coral Sea and create a memory that will last a lifetime. After getting out on the water, sit back and relax at one of Horseshoe Bay's restaurants, cafes or bars. The selection of shops and eateries along the Horseshoe Bay beachfront is an ideal location for a meal with an ocean view. Alternatively pack a picnic and make use of the sheltered picnic tables while the kids enjoy the nearby playground facilities.
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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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Independent Meat Company Steak House
Independent Meat Company Steak House is located at 17 Palmer Street, South Townsville. It is rated 3.2 by 4 Zomato users. Serves Steak. The average cost for 2 mains and 2 beverages here is A$120 approximately. Listing provided in partnership with Zomato
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Ingham
Where can you discover a taste of Italian life in Townsville North Queensland? With more than half Ingham's population being of Italian descent it isn't surprising that the township is often referred to as "Little Italy". Settled in 1864, Ingham is the heart of the local sugar cane industry, where many Italian migrants came to work, and has one of the largest sugar mills in Australia. The annual Australian-Italian Festival in August brings thousands of visitors to the town to enjoy Italian wine, cuisine, music and culture. Today, the town is just over an hour's drive from Townsville and offers a unique collection of culture, fresh produce and vast green landscapes. Upon arrival in Ingham be sure to visit the TYTO Wetlands and Information Centre. This location is a bird lover's paradise with the wetlands walk providing easy viewing of more than 230 different bird species including the Eastern Grass Owl. Enjoy an early morning or late afternoon walk when hundreds of agile wallabies come out to graze. Just a short drive southwest of Ingham provides an opportunity to discover the awe-inspiring Wallaman Falls, Australia's highest permanent single drop waterfall. Forming part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage area, Wallaman Falls sits amongst the beauty of the lush green rainforest. Take in the views from above at the look out, or venture a little closer by taking the walking track to the base. Either way, Wallaman Falls is a great location to enjoy a picnic lunch and to discover the local wildlife. A little further north of the town is the pristine Hinchinbrook Island, a nature lover's paradise. The region includes many recreational National Parks and State Forests with some of the oldest rainforests on earth and many endangered plants and animals. Keep an eye out for the brilliant blue Ulysses butterfly and the rare and ancient cassowary bird. Enjoy exploring in the cooler months from April to September.
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Ingham Cemetery
Located on Sir Arthur Fadden Drive, the Ingham Cemetery depicts the area's strong Mediterranean influences with a magnificent display of tile mausoleums. Undoubtedly, the southern European mausoleums in the Catholic section of the cemetery are quite noticeable. The older style mausoleums are constructed from white stucco and marble, the traditional materials, and contain gothic style windows and doors. The more recent ones are more commonly flat-roofed with parapet surrounds and finished with terrazzo and tiles.
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Ingham Memorial Gardens
At Ingham Memorial Gardens, find yourself relaxing amongst a collection of North Queensland landscapes. Enjoy a picnic lunch as you spy turtles and small fish swimming amongst the water lilies in the Garden's ponds. Wander through the numerous memorials featured in the Gardens and learn their fascinating stories. One such memorial is dedicated to Keith Payne, an Ingham local who was awarded the Victoria Cross in April 1970 by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, for his repeated acts of exceptional personal bravery and unselfish conduct during the Vietnam War. Another memorial is devoted to the 12 people who died when a United States Air Force Liberator B-42 Bomber, the "Texas Terror", crashed on Mount Straloch, Hinchinbrook Island.
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Inkerman Hill
Inkerman Hill, a 10 minute drive south of the township of Home Hill, has recently been upgraded! With funding received through the Queensland Government's Scenic Lookout Upgrade Program, the Burdekin Shire Council is now able to provide their valued visitors a more enjoyable experience. The road up to the lookout has widened and the carpark improved. With a new lookout platform, shelters, toilets, interpretive and directional signage, you must check it out! This has to be put at the top of the to-do list when visiting the region with a walking track for those who wish to stretch their legs and a breathtaking view once you reach the top.
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Intheloop
In The Loop is an adventure sport & retail store located at Flinders Mall, Townsville Central Business District. Intheloop offers Stand Up Paddle Board and Kiteboarding lessons, sales, classes and hires. Stand Up Paddle is for everybody. It's fun, relaxing, easy to learn and good work out. So forget about the boring gym. Get stoked on the water, enjoy nature and get super fit with Stand Up Paddle!
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Island Leisure Resort
Island Leisure Resort is a small boutique resort. Their self-contained Polynesian bure-style units have a kitchen, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, television and outdoor dining patio. The resort is immersed in one acre of beautifully landscaped tropical gardens with a huge lagoon pool and spa. Other facilities include a full size tennis court, games room, licensed snack bar, poolside barbecue area, guest laundry and library. Free wireless internet is available to resort guests. You can choose from Queen or Superior Queen Bures accommodating a maximum of two adults and Family Bures accommodating a maximum of two adults and two children (up to 15 years). Only 50 metres to the beach and five minutes walk to restaurants and shops, a full tour desk and management are on site. Ideally located in Nelly Bay, a 15 minute walk from the ferry terminal or jump on the island buses at the front of the ferry terminal (a small charge applies). Limited taxis are available.
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Island View Motel
Is this the Best View in Townsville? That's what our guests say! Nestled at the foot of Castle Hill, located in a quiet, safe residential area. An awesome view of the famous Strand Beach without the noise, and yet only a 10-minute walk away. Equally as close to the Central Business District or the Flinders Street Farmers Markets. This suits Government Employees, Business Travelers or having a Holiday Literally only one kilometre from the Stadium to either drive or walk. Almost anywhere in Townsville is at hand. Plus, there is plenty to see and do whilst in Townsville.
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Island View Restaurant
Island View Restaurant is located at Ridgemont Executive Motel, 15-19, Victoria Street, Townsville. This restaurant is yet to be rated by Zomato users. Serves Australian, Italian. The average cost for 2 mains and 2 beverages here is A$25 approximately. Listing provided in partnership with Zomato
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JAM Corner
Zomato users recommend Coffee, Salad, Wine and Salmon at JAM Corner. Most of the visitors also appreciated the Decor. JAM Corner is located at 1 Palmer St, South Townsville, Townsville. It is rated 3.3 by 104 Zomato users. Serves Modern Australian. The average cost for 2 mains and 2 beverages here is A$30 approximately. Listing provided in partnership with Zomato
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JAM Corner
JAM Corner Townsville, a popular and well known restaurant and function venue locally owned by chef/restaurateur Matt Merrin . Their aim is to provide you with a taste of North Queensland while offering a warm and welcoming experience. Your Chef likes to explore regional produce and create contemporary cuisine without compromising the purity of flavour. The JAM day begins with a creative breakfast menu and great coffee, followed by lunch – in addition to the a la carte menu they also have a special luncheon menu, and as the sun sets over the city and Castle Hill guests sit back and relax over dinner. For romantic dinners, a private booth is recommended, the window tables are a perfect way to enjoy the views of the river and city lights, or relax outside on the terrace. Their Gourmet Traveller awarded wine list offers over an extensive list ranging from small Australian producers through to stunning international champagne and wines.
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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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Jezzine Barracks
A significant site for both the Australian military and local Aboriginal People, the Jezzine Barracks are now open to the public and include coastal boardwalks, artwork, traditional plantings and parklands. The 15-hectare heritage precinct commemorates the military and Aboriginal heritage of the Kissing Point headland through 32 specially commissioned public artworks, extensive interpretive signage and the restoration of significant elements of the Kissing Point Fort complex. The space includes a coastal walkway connecting Rowes Bay and The Strand, observation decks up at Kissing Point Fort, traditional plantings along the ethno-botanical walk, the Crossed Boomerang Amphitheatre, Norman and Brigadier North parklands and the Kennedy Regiment Plaza. The Traditional Owners of Garabarra are the Wulgurukaba people and the Bindal people, who retain an enduring 'connection to country' despite the impact of non-Aboriginal settlement in the area. For thousands of years Garabarra was the centre of a common food foraging area for local Aboriginal people - an area with immeasurable cultural and spiritual values. The Fort was established in 1870 after the British withdrew from the colonies and it was in continuous military use from 1885 to 2006. In 2007 a community trust was established to keep this land in public hands.
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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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Junior State Cup North
The Junior State Cup North (JSCN) is a regional touch football initiative held at the Queen's Park touch fields and Sports Reserve, Townsville. The inaugural three-day tournament provides the opportunity for junior touch football players from across Queensland to participate and compete against teams from around the state in an inclusive, fun and safe environment. The key focus of the event is to connect players, coaches, and referees and promote participation within the sport of touch, which can be enjoyed with family and friends.
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Keeper Reef Dive Site
Located off Townsville, Keeper Reef offers a wonderful dive for those that love to explore healthy coral gardens. It is easy to get lost at this dive site as the coral gardens are divided by ridges and bommies, creating a coral maze. Some of the best corals at Keeper Reef are the beautiful gorgonians and spikey soft corals. Going no deeper than 16 metres divers will see schools of fusiliers, coral trout, rabbitfish, batfish, turtles, whitetip reef sharks, sweetlips and barramundi cod. There are also plenty of ledges to investigate, which are home to crayfish, rock cods, squirrelfish and shrimps.
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KISS - End of the Road World Tour
Townsville is set to Rock and Roll all Nite this December, as KISS takes over Queensland Country Bank Stadium for one night only. The rock n roll legends will finish their spectacular ‘End Of The Road’ tour with a huge outdoor concert at the stadium on Saturday 4 December 2021!
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Kooyong Apartments
Magnetic Island's iconic Kooyong Units have been transformed and renovated! One and two bedroom apartment are fully self contained, air-conditioned and have free wifi. The pool and bbq area has also been upgraded, providing a fantastic area for families and friends to enjoy. Kooyong Holiday Units are nestled amidst a tropical garden setting in Arcadia. There are 8 units located only 100 metres from Alma Bay Beach in Arcadia, Magnetic Island.
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Lake Paluma
Lake Paluma is an attractive lake surrounded by World Heritage Rainforest. It provides a water supply for approximately one third of the year. Weather proof shelters for day use with barbecues are available and camping sites for longer stays. Swimming and non-motorised vessels are allowed. If you are lucky you may see a platypus, peregrine falcon or eastern water dragon. Due to the popularity of Lake Paluma as a camping destination, there are a limited number of camp sites available and you must pre-book a permit. Access is via a 12 kilometres gravel road just past the Paluma township. All rubbish taken in must be removed, and no domestic animals are allowed.
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Lake Ross
Lake Ross stores over 200,000 million litres of water and supplies up to 80 per cent of the region's potable water supply. The dam wall stretches 8.3 kilometres across the Ross River flood-plain (longest in the Southern Hemisphere) providing an additional flood mitigation benefit to the downstream community. In recognition of its habitat values, Lake Ross is listed as a Wetland of National Significance. The extensive shallow margins of the lake provide habitat for a diversity of water birds. The lake is also surrounded by thousands of hectares of unspoiled open Savannah teeming with wildlife. Over 220 species of bird have been recorded on or around the lake to date.
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Lissner Park
While exploring Charters Towers be sure to take the time to discover Lissner Park. Lined with figs, jacarandas, eucalypts, tamarinds, burdekin plum, milky pines, palms and silky oaks, Lissner Park offers an ideal location to enjoy a shady picnic. Facilities and attractions include picnic tables, gas barbecues, Boer War kiosk, band rotunda, children's playground, WWI guns, Gudgal People Yarning Circle, duck pond and memorials to grazier William Hann and pioneer Jupiter Mossman. The Park was named after Isidor Siegfried Lissner who arrived in Charters Towers in 1873. During his time in Charters Towers Lissner developed a financial empire based on mining and commercial interests. He took a keen interest in community affairs and pushed for the establishment of sporting facilities and public amenities including Lissner Park.
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Little Crystal Creek
The crystal clear waters and pristine waterfalls of this freshwater creek are ideal for a refreshing swim. The mountain water cascades under a picturesque heritage-listed stone arch bridge built in the 1930s depression. It's bridge is a popular place amongst the Townsville locals on the weekend. Just above the bridge as some very spectacular waterfalls. It's also the most popular place in Little Crystal Creek and for good reasons. A perfect place to escape the summer heat by having a quick dip in refreshingly cool water. The rain forest has a good canopy so the vegetation isn't too dense.
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Little Lifesavers: Townsville
Surf Life Saving Queensland have the school holidays covered! Their Little Lifesavers program, supported by Kumon, is a fun way for kids to learn about water safety, all while keeping them entertained this school holidays. Children will have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of water activities, beach games and rescue techniques in flat water, giving them the confidence to take their skills to the beach. The program is designed to be fun and engaging and help increase your child's skills and confidence in the water! For children 5 to 11 years old.
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Live Entertainment at Magnetic Island
Live music and evening entertainment is plentiful on Magnetic Island with terrific local talent ranging from rock to reggae. Base Magnetic Island hosts the IslandLife Party which has grown to become Australia's first Island based weekend festival! Headlined by Australian and international acts, the party brings a mix of locals and visitors to dance the night away. Magnetic Island also hosts the inaugural '40 hour Jammin' which consists of 40 hours of non-stop music where musicians are invited from around Australia are invited to attend and bring their instruments. For a night of family fun and a good laugh head to the Arcadia Island Tavern at 8 pm on a Wednesday night to witness the world famous Bufonidaes (cane toads) races. The concept of the race is simple. All the toads are placed in a plastic container in the centre of a circle, then the container is removed: the first toad to go outside the circle is the winner. If you love a good comedy cabaret show, enjoy a hilarious evening and delicious meal with the professional entertainers from Stage Door Theatre Restaurant.
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Lodestone Reef
Lodestone Reef is a popular dive site off Townsville visited by day boats that both snorkelers and divers will enjoy. This lovely reef has pretty hard coral gardens in the shallows that are overflowing with reef fish. This is a good location to see anemonefish, butterflyfish, angelfish and blue tangs. If you can look pass all the colourful fish you will also see octopus, nudibranchs, sea stars and many other invertebrate species. In deeper water at Lodestone Reef are coral canyons and bommies to explore in depths to 25 metres. In this area are wonderful soft corals, gorgonians and sea whips, plus larger reef residents like reef sharks, stingrays, sweetlips, gropers, trevally, barracuda and the occasional turtle.
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Longboard Bar and Grill
Zomato users recommend Burgers, Buffalo Chicken Wings and Beer at Longboard Bar and Grill. Most of the visitors also appreciated the Live Music. Longboard Bar and Grill is located at 80 Gregory St The Strand. It is rated 3.2 by 50 Zomato users. Serves Modern Australian. The average cost for 2 mains and 2 beverages here is A$20 approximately. Listing provided in partnership with Zomato
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Lotus House
The decadently luxurious Lotus House is set on an amazing absolute beachfront position. Literally, walk off your deck onto the sand and down to the ocean's edge. This unique position allows you to gaze across the sparkling Coral Sea and islands to the north from many points in and around Lotus House. All uninterrupted by roads, car parks, grassed reserves and crowds of tourists that front so many other beachfront holiday homes. Lotus House is simply the ultimate in luxury holiday homes. Lush tropical gardens surround the home creating a wonderful tropical escape and assuring your privacy. Lotus House features three ensuited bedrooms each with king or queen size beds, making it suitable for up to 6 guests. A fantastic property to share with your family, friends or as a special private retreat for you and your partner. The abundance of living spaces both indoors and out, on multiple levels, mean all guests will find plenty of personal space to enjoy this spectacular holiday destination. Lotus House is the perfect retreat for a very special holiday.
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Lucinda
Directly opposite the southern tip of World Heritage listed Hinchinbrook Island is the sleepy seaside hamlet of Lucinda. The eye-popping pride of Lucinda is a six kilometre jetty stretching far out into the Coral Sea. The jetty is the world's largest bulk sugar loading facility and is so long it actually curves with the earth. When conditions are right, you can sometimes see the dugongs and sea turtles at play. With the fertile Hinchinbrook Channel to the north and Coral Sea to the east, Lucinda is Shangri-La for keen anglers. Mangrove jack, coral trout, big juicy mud crabs and the fighting barramundi are all in plentiful supply. Hire a boat and head out to sea or try your luck in the estuary, mangroves, off the beach, or over the side of the jetty. Looming large off the coast, breath-taking Hinchinbrook Island is a pristine natural wilderness, home to the famous Thorsborne Trail, internationally rated one of the top 10 walks on the planet. From Lucinda you can embark on a Hinchinbrook safari and explore the Island's mist-shrouded mountains, waterfalls and freshwater pools. Lucinda is a two hour drive north of Townsville, and a three hour drive south of Cairns. Accommodation in the area includes motels, hotels, caravans and self-contained cabins.
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Lucinda
Directly opposite the southern tip of World Heritage listed Hinchinbrook Island is the sleepy seaside hamlet of Lucinda. The eye-popping pride of Lucinda is a six kilometre jetty stretching far out into the Coral Sea. The jetty is the world's largest bulk sugar loading facility and is so long it actually curves with the earth. When conditions are right, you can sometimes see the dugongs and sea turtles at play. With the fertile Hinchinbrook Channel to the north and Coral Sea to the east, Lucinda is Shangri-La for keen anglers. Mangrove jack, coral trout, big juicy mud crabs and the fighting barramundi are all in plentiful supply. Hire a boat and head out to sea or try your luck in the estuary, mangroves, off the beach, or over the side of the jetty. Looming large off the coast, breathtaking Hinchinbrook Island is a pristine natural wilderness, home to the famous Thorsborne Trail, internationally rated one of the top 10 walks on the planet. From Lucinda you can embark on a Hinchinbrook safari and explore the Island's mist-shrouded mountains, waterfalls and freshwater pools. Accommodation in the area includes motels, hotels, caravans and self-contained cabins.
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Lucinda Jetty
Situated near the southern end of World Heritage listed Hinchinbrook Island, the Lucinda bulk sugar terminal boasts the longest service jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. At 5.76 kilometres long, supported by more than 660 concrete and steel pylons, the jetty is nothing short of an engineering masterpiece with its length actually following the curved contour of the earth. Sugar takes 22 minutes to travel along the conveyor from the on-shore storage to the shiploader. The single berth can accommodate fully loaded Panamax class vessels and the major cargo destinations are Canada and Malaysia. The jetty enables Lucinda to receive the largest ships used in the raw sugar trade. Adjacent to this amazing structure is a small service jetty which is popular with anglers who don't have their own boat. Pelagic species such as Spanish mackerel, giant trevally, queenfish, northern bluefin tuna are there for the taking and some anglers have even been lucky enough to land small black marlin.
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Maggies Beachfront Apartments
Maggies Beachfront Apartments set the standard for luxury and space in Magnetic Island accommodation. All apartments include three bedrooms, large living areas, outdoor decks or courtyards, ducted a/c and ceiling fans, entertainment systems with DVD and large flat-screen television, outdoor dining and personal barbecues, gourmet kitchen and comfortable modern furnishings and decor. Maggies Beachfront Apartments are situated on the beautiful and sheltered Horseshoe Bay beach with cafes, restaurant, tavern, convenience stores and transport at your doorstep. This is the ultimate holiday spot to enjoy doing nothing or everything. Horseshoe Bay is a three kilometre long north facing beach renowned for its protected sparkling blue water, stunning winter sunsets, long beach walks, water sport activities and its cosmopolitan feel. Maggies Apartment Types: Premium Beachfront Units 3, 5, 10 & 12 - Huge glass edged balconies and beach views from the lounge, dining both inside and out. Beachview Balcony Units 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, 11 & 13 - Large units with views of the beach from their generous balconies with 6 seater tables and private BBQ's (Unit 1 is ground floor). Garden Apartments Units 2 & 9 - Fully self contained apartments will make your holiday on Magnetic Island truly memorable
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Magnetic Island
Escape to a tropical island paradise surrounded by secluded bays, golden beaches and activities to excite everyone. With 23 beaches and bays and just a 20 minute ferry ride from Townsville, Magnetic Island has the natural beauty and serenity of an untouched paradise within a thriving community. The rocky granite headlands fuse with sheltered bays and beaches, studded with majestic hoop pines, which create a dramatic and spectacular coastline. Over two-thirds of the Island is classified as National Park, providing a haven for native wildlife including rock wallabies, koalas, possums and more than 100 different bird species. The Island has a range of accommodation including hotels and resorts, self-contained apartments, bed and breakfasts, holiday house rentals and backpacker hostels. Getting to Magnetic Island is easy with a passenger ferry and car barge available. Once you have docked, it is straight into island life. Explore at your own pace, take the bus, hire a scooter, jet ski or topless car. For those who love outdoor adventures explore the wilderness by riding or walking along the networks of tracks available. There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy including boat trips, parasailing, snorkelling tours, walks, bus tours, water sports, golf, diving expeditions, jet skiing, great fishing and horse riding. There are numerous walking tracks on the island, the most popular being the Forts Walk, where you can usually spot koalas in the wild. Walking tracks range from easy, short walks to longer tracks with a moderate level of difficulty. Magnetic Island is a food lovers dream, with a range of restaurants to choose from you surely won't leave the Island hungry.
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Magnetic Island Dive Site
Magnetic Island is a popular destination off Townsville for day trips or an extended stay. The island has many sheltered bays that are great to snorkel or dive, as they have a surprising amount of coral and some great marine life. Florence Bay, Arthur Bay, Alma Bay, Nelly Bay and Geoffrey Bay are all popular dive sites with a good variety of hard and soft corals in depths to 10 metres. The coral gardens in these bays are home to a wide range of reef fish and also a good place to see stingrays, crayfish, moray eels, nudibranchs, wobbegong sharks and the occasional epaulette shark. In Geoffrey Bay divers can also explore the wreck of the Moltke, a 50 metre long three-mast barque scuttled in 1911. The wreck rests in 8 metres, 100 metres off the beach, and is covered in corals and fish.
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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 Jeep Tours
Stretch Jeep Tours: Magnetic Island. Make the most of your holiday time. Experience tropical Magnetic Island at its best in their unique, iconic and fun 4×4 stretched Jeep. At Magnetic Jeep Tours they have the perfect vehicle to showcase the beauty and diversity of Magnetic Island. Relax in comfort with tropical breezes cooling your skin through the open air windows, as they visit all the most popular and picturesque bays and locations. Their team are skilled in bringing the island delights and highlights to you in every tour. Experience animal interactions, history, amazing landscapes, pristine beaches and stunning sunsets. With a range of exciting tour options available, amazing adventures await you. Guided tours for ages 5 and over, morning tea or sunset snacks included. Ask about their prices for children, students, seniors and families.
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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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Maritime Museum of Townsville
Established in 1986 and located in Palmer Street, South Townsville, near the scenic mouth of Ross Creek, the Maritime Museum of Townsville collects and conserves objects and information about Townsville’s and North Queensland’s maritime heritage and presents and interprets its collections for the benefit of the local community, education and tourism.
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McDonalds Townsville Running Festival 2022
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. The annual McDonald's Running Festival incorporates the Townsville Marathon, Half Marathon, 10-kilometre Fun Run, 5-kilometre Fun Run and Walk, 5-kilometre Junior Fun Run and Walk, 2.5-kilometre Hero Run and 5-kilometre Corporate Challenge. 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.
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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 Elliot, Bowling Green Bay National Park camping
***NOTE: as a response to COVID-19, all camping areas in Queensland's national parks are closed to the public until further notice. Check park alerts for updates. Bowling Green Bay National Park offers a range of camping experiences. Alligator Creek camping area, in Mount Elliot section, is an established camping area with a range of facilities. Camp sites here are suitable for tents and small campervans. There are no sites available for caravans or camper trailers (all sizes) or motorhomes. Camping areas are also provided at Cocoa and Salmon creeks in the Cape Cleveland section, and at Baratta Creek in the Bowling Green Bay section. These camping areas are near the coast and are set in coastal woodland and mangrove environments beside intertidal creeks. Facilities are not provided at these camping areas so you need to be completely self-sufficient, carrying food, water and a fuel stove. Camping permits are required and fees apply. A tag with your booking number must be displayed at your camp site. Book your camp site and purchase your camping permit in advance. Bookings can be made on-line, over the counter or by phone.
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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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Museum of Underwater Art - Ocean Siren
The inaugural sculpture in the Southern Hemisphere’s first Museum of Underwater Art, the 'Ocean Siren' is installed alongside North Queensland’s iconic Strand Jetty in Townsville. 'Ocean Siren' is modelled on local Wulgurukaba Traditional Owner Takoda Johnson, with a vision to inspire reef and ocean conservation action and achieve positive environmental outcomes. The ‘Ocean Siren’ reacts to live water temperature data from the Davies Reef weather station on the Great Barrier Reef and changes colour in response to live variations in water temperature.
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Mutarnee
Located approximately 45 minutes north of Townsville on the Bruce Highway, Mutarnee is a small peaceful hamlet nestled on the banks of beautiful Crystal Creek. At the local caravan park there's a small shop and service station and just a minute down the road you'll find the Crystal Creek boat ramp. From this easy access point, boaties can safely navigate their way along Crystal Creek to the Coral Sea. It takes no more than a few minutes and the scenery makes it well worth the effort. Conditions are great for serious sea fishing so remember to pack your rod, bait and tackle. On the other side of Mutarnee you'll find the dramatic Paluma Range National Park which is overflowing with beautiful natural attractions and things to see and do. The road up the mountain takes you through rich, lush rainforest and past cascading waterfalls, rockslides and clear water rock pools. At the top of the mountain you can swim at the old stone bridge and admire this quaint hand-made structure up close. At plenty of spots throughout the park you'll find picnic areas and barbecues to make your visit even more enjoyable. Accommodation at Mutarnee is limited to camping, caravanning and self-contained cabins, however motels, hotels and backpacker hostels can be found at Ingham just 15 minutes further north.
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National Trust Heritage Centre
Journey back to the late 1880s and discover a quaint collection of heritage houses and their stories at the National Trust Heritage Centre. The three heritage houses featured at the centre have been furnished and restored to their original period glory and include a Worker's Dwelling (1878), a grand villa residence known as The Currajong (1889) and an early North Queensland farm residence known as The Farmhouse (1921). Guided tours are available.
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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
A holiday on Magnetic Island is likely to start on Nelly Bay, Magnetic Island's main residential bay. Nelly Bay is the first point of access for the passenger and car ferries and is an easy location to access bus transfers, taxis, hire vehicles or jump on board a guided tour. Most of the Magnetic Island's shopping and amenities are located in Nelly Bay, and it's also a great place to go for that early morning run or a leisurely walk. It is a fantastic spot to go swimming or snorkelling on the fringing coral reef. Towards the northern end of the beach, you will find a children's playground and a coin-operated barbecue area and, further along, sheltered picnic tables and toilets.
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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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North Queensland Elite Rodeo
North Queensland Elite Rodeo has changed to two nights of action packed Rodeo. The 2019 Prize money was over AUD70,000. It is no longer invitational only. The aim of the event is to put the very best Rodeo athletes against the best Rodeo stock in the country. Their goal is to not only put on one of the greatest competitions for spectators but to also show junior and emerging rodeo stars that there is a pathway for this great sport.
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North Ward
North Ward is one of the oldest and most popular suburbs of Townsville. Wedged between towering Castle Hill and the deep blue Coral Sea, North Ward overlooks the tourist drawcard of Magnetic Island and the Port of Townsville. North Ward is home to The Strand, a bustling seaside foreshore brimming with chic restaurants and cafes, legendary Queensland watering holes and glorious ocean views. The Strand offers a safe swimming beach, rock pool, palm fringed landscaping, children's free fun water park, barbecues and picnic areas and a network of bike paths and walkways. The beaches have stinger enclosures (November to April) and there is good fishing to be had from the pier. The suburb of North Ward also contains fine examples of early Queensland architecture including pre-war hotels and church buildings dating back to the late 1800s. Jezzine Barracks, located at the end of The Strand, is a perfect outing for history buffs with access to the Military Museum and a collection of outdoor sculptures and walkways that provide historical insight into the days of the war and Townsville's development. Head up to Kissing Point Jezzine Barracks for some of Townsville best ocean views. Not far from The Strand and Jezzine Barracks is Queens Gardens, one of three fine botanical gardens in the city. Established in 1870, Queens Gardens includes a formal rose garden, two small hedge mazes, a rainforest walk and a small aviary featuring peacocks, lorikeets and sulfur-crested cockatoos. North Ward is just minutes from the Townsville City Centre and offers a range of accommodation options including backpacker hostels, units and motels.
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Northern Australian Beach 5s Rugby Championships
Beach Fives Rugby is spectacular - fast-paced - exciting, based on modified rules of Rugby Union and Rugby League - no scrums no line outs - supporting both codes. HSM Group has successfully delivered Beach Rugby Australia’s identity with its signature Beach Fives Rugby program since 2018. Beach Fives Rugby -presents an ongoing experience like no other - central beach playing inflatable arena 30-metres by 25-metres - Fan Zone Lounge, fully licensed Beach Bar food and beverage live entertainment, grandstand viewing platforms overlooking playing action with a picturesque ocean backdrop. On beach marquee décor, deck chairs, outside patio umbrellas, Beach Barbecue area - Free to the public - Invitations - VIP’s / Sponsors / Celebrities / Media.
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Oaks Townsville Gateway Suites
Oaks Townsville Gateway Suites is Townsville's next generation in resort-style accommodation. Located on the waterfront and conveniently close to the Central Business District fringe, Gateway caters to all travellers, both leisure and business. Oaks Townsville Gateway Suites boasts a fully equipped gym along with sauna and spa, swimming pool on podium level with views over the river and city. Offering the very best in luxury and location, Oaks Gateway's spacious, modern and luxurious apartments with spectacular river and ocean views are sure to impress.
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Oaks Townsville Metropole Hotel
Townsville hotels come no more spacious, affordable and comfortable than Oaks Townsville Metropole Hotel, making it the perfect Townsville hotel choice for those wanting to make the most of this exciting coastal city with prime access to local attractions, and the comfort of fully serviced and spacious apartment living. The property is ideally located on the cosmopolitan Palmer Street dining precinct, an easy stroll from restaurants, cafes, city night life and Jupiters Casino.
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Odyssey on the Strand
Most of the visitors appreciated the Friendly Staff at Odyssey on the Strand. Odyssey on the Strand is located at 120 The Strand. It is rated 3.3 by 45 Zomato users. Serves Breakfast, Greek, Seafood. The average cost for 2 mains and 2 beverages here is A$30 approximately. Listing provided in partnership with Zomato
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Oktoberfest 2021 at The Brewery
Don your Dirndl or Lederhosen and get ready for North Queensland’s biggest Oktoberfest 2021. Once again they are closing Flinders Street for Oktoberfest and bringing back Bavarian-style street foods, hand-crafted beers, grand final live coverage and Entertainment including eating competitions and DJs. They are opening even earlier this year to help celebrate the biggest party of the year from 12:00 pm until 10:00 pm on 3 October 2021.
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Old Brandon Church
The Old Brandon Church is the place to go if you love historic buildings. Formerly Saint Patrick's Catholic Church, the building is listed on the Registers of both the National Estate and the National Trust of Queensland. This excellent example of a 'carpenter Gothic' church has stood on two sites in Brandon. After severe damage from cyclone Aivu in 1989, it was purchased by the Burdekin Shire Council, and in 1991 moved to its present site. It has been loving restored and is an excellent subject for structural photography. On Mondays, combine your visit to see this beautiful building with a visit to the Burdekin Machinery Preservationist's shed right next door. The Old Brandon Church is an hour's drive south of Townsville, and five minutes north of Ayr.
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Orpheus Island
Uncover a secluded Great Barrier Reef Island that offers immaculate coastlines and a tranquil tropical escape at Orpheus Island. Located just off the coast of Ingham in North Queensland, Orpheus Island is renowned for its exclusivity, beauty and spectacular fringing reefs. The majority of the Island is comprised of pristine National Park set amongst the turquoise waters of the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef. With limited accommodation options and access via helicopter or private charter, Orpheus Island provides a true escapism for visitors. Stay at Orpheus Island Resort for pure luxury. Arrive by helicopter and be transported to a tropical indulgence complete with gourmet dining in some of the most spectacular settings imaginable. Relax in comfort or let the staff arrange a full day of activities for you to explore the Island further. For a more low-key accommodation option, the National Park has three camping spots. Ideally located on the Great Barrier Reef, Orpheus Island is a magical location for fishing, snorkelling and diving with the dive sites showcasing 1100 of the 1500 species of fish on the reef.
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Palm Island Motel
Located on the picturesque Great Palm Island, 65 kilometres northwest of Townsville on the east coast of Queensland, the Palm Island Motel offers a range of double, twin and family rooms. All rooms are serviced daily and have amenities like free cable television, coffee making facilities, refrigerators, microwaves and irons/ironing boards. A large kitchen and dining room are available for self-catering. Accessible by regular ferry services and scheduled flights, Palm Island is a tropical island with a resident community of about 5,000 people of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent. It is the main island of the Greater Palm Group and consists of small bays, sandy beaches and steep forested mountains rising to a peak of 548 metres.
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Palmer Street
Located on the city's south bank, Palmer Street captures the essence of international cuisine and is a prime location to start your night, or day, boasting award winning restaurants for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Whether you desire Indian, Asian, Italian, Mexican, modern Australian or locally caught seafood, this is Townsville's premium eating strip. Palmer Street is also home to a number of accommodation options ranging from hotels to serviced apartments and backpacker accommodation. The central location and wide range of dining options makes it an ideal spot to stay, eat and shop! Stroll along Palmer Street to admire the historical buildings and boutique shops and visit the Maritime Museum.
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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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Paluma Village Trail Run
Join them for the last trail run of the year in the village of the clouds, Paluma. The event offers a 6 kilometre, 10 kilometres and 20 kilometre course, taking you through the stunning rainforest scenery of Paluma, up and down hills and across creeks. The cooler temperatures make it perfect for running at this time of the year. Join us for Dinner Under the Stars the night before, RSVP essential. This is the final event in the Mike Carney Toyota Trail Run Series 2021
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Parkside Motel Ayr
Boasting an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant and free WiFi, Parkside Motel and Licensed Restaurant is just one kilometre from Ayr Golf Course. It offers air-conditioned rooms with a flat-screen television. Free onsite parking is provided. All rooms have a microwave, a refrigerator, a toaster and an electric kettle. Each room has a private en suite bathroom with a hairdryer. Parkside Motel and Licensed Restaurant is located in the heart of Ayr, only three minutes’ drive from Ayr Hospital. Townsville is a one-hour drive away. The Q-Bar and Grill Restaurant offers a varied menu that includes steak, pasta, chicken and fresh seafood dishes. The bar is the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing. Room service and packed lunches are available upon request.
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Pelorus and Orpheus Islands
Pelorus and Orpheus Islands are a popular location for day trips off Townsville. Part of the Palm Island Group, 80 kilometres north of Townsville, access to these continental island is from Lucinda. All around Pelorus and Orpheus Islands are rocky reefs covered in hard coral, soft coral, gorgonians and sea whips in depths from 12 metres to 25 metres. The coral coverage on these sites is surprisingly good, considering how close these islands are to the mainland. Popular dive sites around the islands include Bat Caves, The Maze, Moon Pools, Trenches and Black Coral Wall. At these sites divers can explore ledges, gutters, bommies and walls. Typical marine life in the area includes turtles, reef sharks, gropers, barramundi cod, batfish, stingrays and a good range of reef fish and invertebrates.
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Pelorus Island
Pelorus Island, located 800 metres north of Orpheus Island in the Palms Island group, is an untouched, pristine environment accessible by private boat or on a dive tour. Pelorus Island offers spectacular fringing reefs accessible straight off the beach, which make for a remarkable snorkel or dive experience on the Great Barrier Reef. For outdoor explorers camping is permitted on Pelorus Island, however all equipment must be carried with you as there is no access to fresh water and camping facilities are not available. No permit is required.
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Peppers Blue on Blue Resort
Experience the unique allure of one of Australia’s most relaxed escape destinations, Peppers Blue on Blue Resort on Magnetic Island. Just 20 minutes by ferry from Townsville, Magnetic Island is a blend of native Australian bushland, breathtaking beaches and sandy bays. Your suite at Peppers Blue on Blue Resort will be your private sanctuary. With the choice of Hotel Rooms, Studios, One, Two and Three Bedroom Apartments and Penthouses, you will be perfectly accommodated throughout your stay on Magnetic Island. Take full advantage of the contemporary design and stunning seascapes, boasting uninterrupted marina views. Studios and One Bedroom Apartments feature kitchenettes, balconies and complimentary WiFi. Two and Three Bedroom Apartments and Penthouses also have the added benefit of full gourmet kitchens. Peppers Blue on Blue Resort is the perfect place to experience the great outdoors – whether you’re fishing or diving, exploring reefs or rainforests, biking or boating. For those desiring more leisurely pursuits, laze around the magnificent saltwater lagoon, stroll along the marina or dine at Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar.
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Peppers Cafe and Catering
Peppers Cafe and Catering is located on Gill Street, the main street of Charters Towers. Charters Towers is a country town west of Townsville which has a rich and diverse history which was founded on Gold! With council approved centre parking for long vehicles as well as a car park directly behind the cafe on Hodgkinson street, access to their fully air conditioned cafe which boasts clean amenities, free high speed WIFI (with on site support), great local knowledge, resident artist gallery with works for purchase as well as amazing chunky steak pies, cakes, slices and sweets all made on site*. They also have great coffee and a full menu. *Well almost everything, they source the highest quality gluten free products and are continually working on new experiences for other dietary requirements. If you have any special requests please let us know. The best thing about being in the middle of the main street is that from out front door no matter which way you look you will be immersed in "The World".
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Perc Tucker Regional Gallery
Housed in one of Townsville’s finest heritage buildings, Perc Tucker Regional Gallery is a dynamic visual arts centre and has a significant collection of North Queensland art. It is Townsville’s foremost gallery with an exciting and diverse program of local, national and international exhibitions, with a special focus on exhibitions featuring North Queensland artists. Floor talks, lectures, education programs and performances of music, theatre and dance supplement exhibitions. The Perc Tucker Regional Gallery is located in the heart of the city centre on the corner of Flinders Mall and Denham Street.
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Picnic Bay
With a sweeping beach, tranquil setting and the iconic jetty, Picnic Bay on Magnetic Island is a spectacular location to enjoy a relaxing swim, beachside dining or a spot of fishing on the jetty. Snorkel and explore the abundant marine life of Picnic Bay or see what you can spot from above while taking a stroll along the jetty. If you are lucky, you might spot a turtle or a shy dugong. With a number of shopping, dining and accommodation options, Picnic Bay is well suited to meet everyone's holiday desires and budgets. Enjoy a meal along the beachfront at one of the dining outlets or pack a picnic and find a shady spot to take in the picturesque views! Picnic Bay is also home to Magnetic Island's only golf course. With breathtaking views and curious wildlife including koalas, wallabies and birdlife, a game of golf on Magnetic Island will be one you never forget. The two bays either side of Picnic Bay are well worth visiting. Cockle Bay is where you will find the wrecked City Of Adelaide, and Rocky Bay is a local hot spot for sun-lovers and one of the Island's top beaches for swimming and snorkelling.
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Pinnacles Gallery
Pinnacles Gallery is a dynamic art space committed to offering a diverse exhibition program with a strong community focus. Pinnacles Gallery is located in Townsville's premier Riverway precinct in Thuringowa, providing a perfect backdrop for you to enjoy local and touring exhibitions of visual arts, craft, social history and more. Once you have browsed the latest exhibition, take a swim in Riverway lagoon, stroll along the riverfront under the shade of the large rain trees or catch a performance at the Riverway Arts Centre.
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Pioneer Cemetery
Entrenched in a deep history from the days of the gold rush, Pioneer Cemetery located in Charters Towers, gives an interesting insight in the hardships faced by the pioneers of the time. Containing graves from those who were buried between 1872 and 1895, mining accidents, fires, murders, child birth and general hardship are some of the reasons that there are more than 5000 people buried in the early cemetery. Cemetery records are available for viewing at the Charters Towers Visitor Information Centre.
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Pioneer Park and Ross River
Pioneer Park is located in Townsville on the banks of the Ross River and Ross River Dam. The park provides recreational facilities and is a popular fishing location. Facilities include sporting fields, picnic and barbecue areas. This park is also home to the Riverway Precinct, a major community facility with integrated facilities and attractions including retail, community, environmental and entertainment precincts.
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Pipers Lookout
Embrace magnificent views of vast blue skies and boundless green scenery from Pipers Lookout. Travel up Hervey Range Road from Thuringowa Central, past the suburbs of Rangewood and Rupertswood to find Piper's Lookout near the top of the Range. You will be rewarded with stunning views over the bushland below Hervey Range and out to the ocean.
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Poppet Head Gift Shop
Poppet Head is The Best Gift Shop in the World. Their shop is located in the CBD in Gill Street and a visit to their Aladdin's Cave of treasures is not to be missed. They sell an amazing range of local pottery, candles, postcards, souvenirs, local teas and jams and chutneys. They have local gold nuggets, estate jewellery and other gem stones and rocks for sale. They stock incense, essential oils and gifts for all occasions. Poppet Head can take bookings for the Venus Battery, Ghost and Charters Towers Walking Tours. Their staff are involved in tourism in their region and they can direct you to the many quirky features of their town you may not normally find. Poppet Head is a must do shop when you visit Charters Towers. Pop in for a visit and you will always get a chat.
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Port of Lucinda
Located 100 kilometres north of Townsville, the Port of Lucinda exports raw sugar grown in the Ingham district. It is equipped with on-shore sugar handling and storage facilities, as well as a single trestle jetty and conveyor running out to an off-shore berth and shiploader. The jetty is one of the longest of its type in the world, extending 5.6 kilometres out to sea and dipping 1.2 metres over its length as it follows the curvature of the earth. Sugar takes 22 minutes to travel along the conveyor from the on-shore storage sheds to the shiploader.
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Port of Townsville
Townsville is a unique, exciting and thoroughly welcoming destination for cruise ships, their passengers and crew. Townsville Port's Quayside Terminal is a near-new cruise ship facility, and guarantees a friendly and professional welcome and departure experience for all cruise ships and their guests. The terminal provides free wi-fi internet access and a wi-fi lounge. Townsville is the number one port in Australia for copper, zinc, lead and sugar exports and services 70 per cent of the Northern Australia population. More than 20 shipping lines operate out of the Townsville Port, offering more 40 services and covering 136 ports around the world. The Port of Townsville was crowned the Australian Port or Terminal of the Year in both 2015 and 2016.
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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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Pure Magnetic Villas
Pure Magnetic is all about real island style accommodation without sacrificing any luxury. No multi-storey concrete boxes here! Situated on the beautiful Nelly Bay beach with a picturesque outlook across a palm tree-lined foreshore and the coral sea, Pure Magnetic will take you far away from your everyday life. The property consists of 10 luxuriously appointed two-bedroom villas, nestled amid beautiful tropical landscaped gardens. The beach is only 20 metres from the front of the property. Every villa has two bedrooms, an ensuite and second bathroom, full kitchen with dishwasher, euro laundry, spa bath, three widescreen televisions with pay-TV channels, air conditioning and ceiling fans throughout, private balcony, a personal barbecue and outdoor setting.
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Queens Gardens
Established in 1870, Queens Gardens are the oldest botanic gardens in Townsville. Covering four hectares, the gardens are a lush green oasis set against the dramatic pink granite monolith of Castle Hill, offering a quiet, cool retreat from the nearby city centre. The garden is divided into quadrants, each with a central fountain. Special areas include a formal rose garden, the Herb Society's garden, the annuals garden beds, the two small hedge mazes, a rainforest walk and the black bean (also known as Moreton Bay chestnuts) avenue. There is also a small aviary featuring peacocks, lorikeets and sulfur-crested cockatoos.
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Quest Townsville on Eyre
Quest Townsville on Eyre serviced apartment style hotel rooms offer guests a relaxed and comfortable Townsville on Eyre accommodation experience perfect for short or long stays. Quest Townsville on Eyre is located in Townsville, within walking distance to the CBD and only a five-minute drive from Townsville airport. Attractions that are located close to the hotel include the iconic Castle Hill, Townsville Civic Centre, James Cook University, The Base Hospital, the SeaLink Ferry Terminal to Magnetic Island, and The Strand (Townsville’s dining, shopping, and entertainment precinct) and the new Queensland Country Bank Stadium. Quest Townsville on Eyre has 65 serviced apartments including Studio, One, Two, and Three Bedroom Apartments. Studios are the perfect alternative to a hotel room and have kitchenettes. The One, Two, and Three Bedroom Apartments are ideal for families, colleagues or larger groups looking for a home away from home experience with full kitchens and laundry facilities.
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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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Raintree Markets
Under the shade of Ingham's iconic raintrees of Rotary Park, right in the heart of Ingham. This market offers a diversity of offerings from local craft, bric-a-brac, fresh produce, real coffee, tropical plants and tasty treats. Hosted on the 1st and 3rd Sunday from February to December with the 3rd Sunday in December. All monies raised proudly supports Ingham Palliative Care.
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Ravenswood
Discover Ravenswood, an old gold mining settlement, set amongst the rolling hills of the outback. Ravenswood is a small township approximately 130km south-west of Townsville and 90km north-east of Charters Towers and is a living tribute to the history and heritage of western Queensland. Mullock heaps, tall chimneys, poppet heads and discarded mine machinery pepper the countryside, reminiscent of the town's century-old glory. Beautifully restored hotels and public buildings will give you a glimpse of what the town was once like. Take the time to stop and explore because there's more to this historic town than you would expect and the locals are only too happy to tell you all about it.
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Recovery of the Great Barrier Reef
Travellers from around the world come to the Great Barrier Reef, an Australian World Heritage Area, to explore its extraordinary diversity of animal and plant life. Coral reefs face a growing number of threats, from climate change and storm damage, to sediment and nutrient run-off. Join them on an Earthwatch expedition in the water around Magnetic Island to help scientists develop best-practice methods for coral recovery. On this expedition, participants can get involved through scuba or snorkel activities. You will assist researchers in making baseline measurements of environmental conditions, actively removing algae, deploying coral recruitment (settlement) tiles and assessing fish and invertebrate diversity and abundance. By joining this expedition, you’ll be at the forefront of active reef restoration science. You will assist researchers in experiments that aim to develop best practice methods for removing this macroalgae and allowing coral to regrow. You will be directly involved in filling in the gaps that will enable reef managers to make evidence-based decisions about active interventions that support the recovery of the Great Barrier Reef, and reefs all over the world. All accommodation, meals, transfers and research activities included.
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Recovery of the Great Barrier Reef expedition
Travellers from around the world come to the Great Barrier Reef, an Australian World Heritage Area, to explore its extraordinary diversity of animal and plant life. Coral reefs face a growing number of threats, from climate change and storm damage, to sediment and nutrient run-off. Join them on an Earthwatch expedition in the water around Magnetic Island to help scientists develop best-practice methods for coral recovery. On this expedition, participants can get involved through scuba or snorkel activities. You will assist researchers in making baseline measurements of environmental conditions, actively removing algae, deploying coral recruitment (settlement) tiles and assessing fish and invertebrate diversity and abundance. By joining this expedition, you’ll be at the forefront of active reef restoration science. You will assist researchers in experiments that aim to develop best practice methods for removing this macroalgae and allowing coral to regrow. You will be directly involved in filling in the gaps that will enable reef managers to make evidence-based decisions about active interventions that support the recovery of the Great Barrier Reef, and reefs all over the world. All accommodation, meals, transfers and research activities included.
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Reflections Villas
"Reflections" has been designed exclusively for couples to enjoy. This boutique group of four private villas with views across Picnic Bay and the blue waters of the Coral Sea to the hills of Cape Cleveland hugging the horizon. Each villa features a private courtyard with a large temperature controlled plunge pool, king size bedroom suite, separate living pavilion, BBQ and views across Picnic Bay. Picnic Bay is an ideal village like destination for you to enjoy peace, tranquillity and appreciate what Magnetic Island has to offer. Guests enjoy private courtyards with large temperature controlled plunge pools, king size bedroom suites, separate living pavilions, BBQs and views across the bay. You will only be a short stroll from all that Picnic Bay has to offer. Safe year round swimming, great local restaurants, good coffee, the Picnic Bay pub, fishing from the island's iconic jetty and you will be close to a challenging golf course. It's a perfect place to enjoy some of the well-maintained walking trails to wonderful vantage points. If you are travelling without a vehicle complimentary transfers to "Reflections" will help you to relax and reflect as soon as you step inside. Stay at Reflections Emerald, Topaz, Amber, or Turquoise Villas.
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Riverway
Located in Townsville on the magnificent Ross River frontage, Riverway offers a dynamic combination of residential, commercial, cultural, sports and leisure activities. The precinct provides an exciting environment to enjoy a variety of water-based and waterfront activities. With two huge swimming lagoons, the Riverway Arts Centre, Pinnacles Gallery, the Riverwalk, public art, village spine, restaurant, and parklands, there truly is so much to explore. Other quality restaurants, cafes and shops are part of the commercial precinct planned for construction in addition to a national-standard cricket and AFL sports facility. The area is a year round visitor destination with an annual calendar of events including festivals, Christmas festivities, New Year's Eve, Australia Day Celebrations, as well as food, wine, art and sporting events. The picturesque promenades, glorious Ross River, spacious parklands and state of the art Arts Centre, Gallery and Sports Centre are all venues used to host a range of public events.
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Rocky Bay Retreat
Relax and revitalise in the peaceful surrounds at Rocky Bay Retreat. This modern two-storey home accommodates six people including generous living spaces. Each of the three bedrooms offer louvred windows and views onto the garden. Top of the line bedding provides the best possible sleeping comfort. The backyard of meandering steps through boulders provides a spectacular backdrop to the main deck. A smart television, soundbar, air conditioning, gas barbecue and wireless internet are some of the conveniences offered in the home. Abundant bird life and walking tracks are nature's treat just outside the door. This property is quiet, yet only a short stroll from Picnic Bay Esplanade, its cafe, hotel, beautiful beach and iconic jetty. Rocky Bay Retreat is located on Magnetic Island. Explore the island on foot, bike, bus, car or boat. Diving, reef tours, bush walking, golf, jet ski tours and horse riding are a just a few activities available. Rocky Bay Retreat is just a 20 minute ferry ride from Townsville.
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Rollingstone Beach Front Resort
Just 55 kilometres north of Townsville is their beautiful caravan resort which boasts absolute beach frontage overlooking Palm and Havana Islands. The large pool allows you to swim year round. They have three large lakes stocked with barramundi for you to feed. Rollingstone Beach Front Resort offers uninterrupted ocean views on their beachfront powered sites, grassy powered sites just back from the beach or shady unpowered sites. For accommodation you can choose from one of their beachfront villas, which can sleep from two to eight people, or an ocean view cabin which sleeps up to five people. All are self contained and have air-conditioning. The modern amenities and camp kitchen are second to none.
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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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Ross River
The Ross River hosts a wide range of sporting and leisure activities. Riverwalk, a three metre wide pathway which overlooks the beautiful Ross River, runs along the river and provides numerous opportunities to enjoy its natural beauty. The Riverway, Loam Island and Pioneer Park developments offer a dynamic combination of residential, commercial, cultural, sports and leisure activities. With two huge swimming lagoons, Riverway Arts Centre, Pinnacles Gallery, the Riverwalk, public art, village spine, restaurant and parklands there are plenty of activities here for everyone. The area is a year round visitor destination with an annual calendar of events including festivals, Christmas festivities, New Year's Eve, Australia Day Celebrations, as well as food, wine, art and sporting events. The precinct provides an excellent environment to enjoy a variety of water-based and waterfront activities. Skiing, wakeboarding and fishing are all popular activities on the water. Ross River also offers some excellent bird watching opportunities, particularly from Pioneer Park, Loam Island, Apex Park and Dam Park.
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Rydges Townsville
Rydges Townsville is centrally located on Palmer Street in the heart of Far North Queensland's capital. The beautiful accommodation rooms offer views of Townsville City, Castle Hill and Ross River Marina. The hotel provides a full range of facilities including the iconic Southbank Grill and Bar and the Southbank Convention Centre. Comfortable accommodation with our luxurious Rydges Dream Beds along with a resort-style pool and spa, free wifi and on-site car parking are enhanced by friendly staff, exceptional service and keen attention to detail. In-room facilities include 24-hour reception, minibars, tea and coffee making facilities, iron and ironing board and room service. This hotel is the perfect gateway to Magnetic Island and the Great Barrier Reef and only a short stroll to all the key attractions of Townsville.
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S.S City of Adelaide
See the Instagram-Famous SS Adelaide, Australia.com’s most liked post of 2018. 186,502 (and counting) likes can’t be wrong, this shipwreck in the waters of Magnetic Island is a sight to behold. The city of Adelaide ran aground at Cockle Bay in 1916 while being transported. It is located 300 metres offshore and can be accessible during low tide. Hidden behind a sea of mangroves, the City of Adelaide is a off the beaten track experience but it sure does excite the senses! The City of Adelaide is a great wreck for viewing if you don't feel like getting in the water and the beautiful mangroves nestled in the middle of the exposed hull pose an amazing photo opportunity.
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Sails on Horseshoe
From the door of your apartment, it is a short across the road to the golden sands of beautiful Horseshoe Bay. Sails has one-bedroom and two-bedroom fully self-catering units all of which have a separate lounge/dining area and a balcony or garden with table and chairs for alfresco dining. They have a pool with spa, barbecues with a dining area, free use of beach towels, beach chairs and eskies, free internet and free undercover parking. It is a two minute walk to restaurants, coffee shop, pub and convenience store and a large range of water sports.
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Sandi’s on Magnetic Island
Established in 2013 by a group of friends and adopted island locals, what began as a middle-of-the-night conversation amongst dreamers, quickly became the reality that is Sandi’s. As a young and dynamic team stemming from all corners of the globe, they have always had one common goal – to provide a relaxed, friendly venue where you can unwind and enjoy the beauty that is Horseshoe Bay, Magnetic Island. With a focus on providing exceptional food – prepared using high quality, local seafood, meat and produce – at affordable prices, there is something to appeal to everybody; from families, tourists and locals alike. They specialise in premium Cape Grim Black Angus Steaks, fresh local seafood, authentic German specialities and so much more, all created by their native Bavarian chef and co-owner Andreas Thiele. Their goal is to not only offer exceptional food and drinks but to provide a venue catering to all the wants and needs of their valued patrons, friends and visitors. With this in mind, they offer free wi-fi. So no matter where you’re from, you can keep up to date with what’s going on in your part of the world. They look forward to welcoming you.
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Saunders Beach
Saunders Beach is part of the Northern Beaches precinct of Townsville. Saunders Beach has a residential community and some commercial accommodation. The beach is largely untouched and visitors frequently have the beach to themselves. With over six kilometres of beach to discover, take a long refreshing walk, drop a line in to fish, and claim a piece of paradise to yourself. Have lunch at the Cafe or Take-Away and store under a magnificent fig tree, then relax at the beautiful Saunders Beach Park. Stay on the beach at the Retreat House or Ocean View Units. A boat ramp is also available for the keen fisher. Saunders Beach Park is also a designated limited free vehicle camping area.
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Scallywags Cafe
A fun pirate themed and family friendly cafe with a focus on fresh healthy food, remarkable organic coffee and fabulous service with a smile. This pop-up cafe operates seasonally between Easter and Christmas and has become an iconic eatery of Magnetic Island. Unique and eclectic, Scallywags is accessible to all - don't miss out on treating yourself to something different!
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Sciencentre
Unleash your inner scientist at the Sciencentre at the Museum of Tropical Queensland. A discovery-zone with plenty of fun where you can get hands on with a range of interactive exhibits and discover how science challenges the human body, exercises the brain and stimulates the senses. Explore the world of science through play. Follow your curiosity, ask questions, test your ideas and use your imagination in this exciting, interactive and experience-rich environment. Challenge your friends, solve puzzles and learn about how science is a part of the things we do every day. Be curious. Be a scientist at Sciencentre.
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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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South Townsville
When the sun goes down, South Townsville's Palmer Street comes alive! Following the river, this after-hours hot spot is brimming with groovy cafes, lively pubs, fine dining restaurants, sophisticated cocktail bars and hip hotels. The atmosphere buzzes in this precinct located just across the river from Townsville City Centre. There is plenty to see and do during the day too! South Townsville is home to the city's Maritime Museum. The pride of the Museum is a display of the SS Yongala, which sunk in 1911 drowning all 122 people on board. The wreck, off the coast of Townsville, is now one of the world's premier wreck dive sites. Visitors to the Museum can take a guided tour of a real naval patrol boat, the HMAS Townsville, anchored near the mouth of Ross River. The kids will also love the extensive display of hand-made model boats that the Museum has on offer. Accommodation at South Townsville includes backpacker hostels, motels, self-contained units and a number of well-known hotel chains.
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SS Yongala Dive Site
Situated near Cape Bowling Green off the coast between Townsville and Ayr, the SS Yongala is possibly the best wreck dive in the world. The ship, at 110 metres long, is one of the largest, most intact historic shipwrecks, as well as one of the most intriguing maritime mysteries - after sinking in 1911, the SS Yongala lay undiscovered for more than half a century. Due to being the only reef formation in the region, the ship attracts a much higher amount of sea life than other dive sites. Everything about the SS Yongala is massive: huge fish, enormous structures of coral and with so much of the ship still intact, it makes for a stunning sight and one that won’t compare to anything else. You will find eagle rays, turtles, giant Queensland gropers, schooling barracuda, sea snakes and much more living on board the SS Yongala.
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Stock Exchange Arcade
Imagine back to the days of the 1800s, when the gold rush was at its prime and the township of Charters Towers was the second largest city in Queensland. An arcade was designed by Sydney architect Mark Day and built by Sandbrook Brothers of Sydney in 1888 for local civic leader and businessman Alexander Malcolm. Known then as the Royal Arcade, it housed one of Australia's first regional stock exchanges, the Charters Towers Stock Exchange from 1890. At one time the price of gold was set in that very Arcade, an indication of the importance of the Charters Towers' economy at the time. Today, the stockbroker's offices have been converted into shops and make for an interesting insight into the buildings history. Wander through the Don Roderick Gallery, enjoy the building's magnificent architecture and don't miss the "Calling of the Card," a ghostly reminder of Charters Towers' golden days.
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Street Art Trail - Augmented Reality
Discover the Street Art movement in Townsville’s CBD! The Street Art Walking Trail: Augmented Reality edition takes you on a virtual journey of street art. As you walk through the city’s streets and alleyways, watch out for stickers on the ground or wall nearby. Follow the instructions on the sticker to see the artworks transform! All artworks on the trail have been commissioned through a range of local, national and world-renowned artists by Townsville City Council. A must-see experience. Download your FREE map via the website. The Street Art scene is ever-evolving - for the specially dedicated urban explorer, keep your eyes peeled for new works.
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Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival
Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival is now a three day festival that incorporates the First Fire of the crushing season, Burdekin Cultural Fair and the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships. The Burdekin region is one of the last regions in Australia to still burn sugar cane before it is harvested. The First Fire celebrates that fact and involves burning the purpose grown cane to be cut in the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships. The Burdekin Cultural Fair celebrates the many cultures that make the Burdekin the friendly, multicultural town it is and the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships is a test of skill and endurance, with thousands of dollars in prize money up for grabs for competitors. Bring the family to experience history coming back to life, in the sugar capital of Australia. The First Fire and Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships are held at the Home Hill Showgrounds, about one and a quarter hour's drive south of Townsville, and 15 minutes from Ayr. The Burdekin Cultural Fair is held next to the PCYC on Macmillan Street in Ayr.
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Taylors Beach
Taylors Beach is a quiet beachside community centrally located between Forrest Beach and Lucinda and known by locals as an angler's paradise. With Orpheus Island and fringing reefs only a short distance away, Taylors Beach offers a wide variety of fish. Grab a fishing rod and prepare for some serious relaxation when you head to Taylors Beach.
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Texas Longhorn Tours
Australia's "Texas in the Outback" experience. To view the magnificent herd of Texas Longhorns, Texas Longhorn Tours features one of the last horse-drawn wagon ride experiences in Australia as well as the original Texas Longhorn Safari. These cattle are, without doubt, the most famous and iconic breed of cattle in history. See some of the longest horned cattle in the world that are direct descendants of the millions of Texas Longhorns that walked in the great trail herds from Texas in the late 1800s! Texas Longhorns are the old west cattle that were the salvation of Texas back in the late 1800's and as a result, the legend of the cowboy was born. Everyone has seen a cowboy or western movie and now you can see how the legend started…. Many steers have horns spanning more than 100 inches tip-to-tip and JR, who was a former Guinness World Record Holder, is on display in the JR Gallery of Horns with a horn span exceeding 10 feet 4 inches or 3.15 metres! You have heard that "Everything is bigger in Texas" so get yourself to Texas Longhorn Tours and you will see that sometimes "Things are bigger in Queensland" Located 10 kilometres from Charters Towers in North Queensland and offering two different experiences, Texas Longhorn Tours is a 'must do' when visiting the area.
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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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The Painting of Life by Mirka Mora
The Painting of Life, by renowned artist Mirka Mora, is a must-see. It is the largest of Mirka Mora's works on permanent public display in Queensland. It measures 5.7 metres across, and 6.1 metres in height. Brightly coloured, her unique style is seen in the animals, birds, patterns and designs. Take a close look at all the sections of the mural to see some of the history and stories of the Burdekin area. You may even find a mythical creature or two. The painting was created on scaffolding in the foyer of the Burdekin Theatre in 1983. The progress was viewed by many people who came to watch. Upon completion of the Burdekin Library the following year, it was installed in its current location. On show in the Burdekin Library Ayr, you are invited to view the artwork during opening hours, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, and Saturday 9am to 1pm.
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The Robert Towns
In the heart of Townsville’s Central Business District, The Robert Towns is ideally located for the corporate or leisure traveller and is only a short stroll to cinemas, shopping and the Townsville government offices. A five minute walk will take you to The Strand, a seaside foreshore with parks, playgrounds, restaurants and magnificent views of the Port of Townsville and Magnetic Island.
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The Strand
Immerse yourself in the Townsville way of life and discover The Strand, Townsville's thriving beach foreshore! With a relaxed, yet energetic vibe, The Strand is bursting with activities to excite the whole family. The two and a half kilometre walkway offers spectacular views across to Magnetic Island and is popular for runners, walkers and kids with bikes and scooters. Enjoy the ocean breezes with a meal at one of the restaurants or cafes there. Alternatively treat the whole family to a barbecue or beach picnic. With a number of fantastic playgrounds and the popular Strand Water Park, The Strand will keep the kids entertained for hours. Take a swim in the ocean or the rock pool, test your balance on a Stand-Up Paddle Board or land on the beach after the adrenalin rush of skydiving! Enjoy the shade of the palm trees with a good book or grab a gelato and just enjoy the stunning views. For fishing enthusiasts, the jetty is a great spot to cast a line. At the end of The Strand, discover Jezzine Barracks and uncover the stories of Townsville's settlement. Learn of the regions significant military and indigenous history and enjoy the outdoor art.
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The Strand Park Townsville War Memorial
Don't use Townsville war memorial's clock tower to check the time: its clock faces have long been replaced by four plaques depicting an eagle, crossed swords, anchor and the seal of the City of Townsville. As early as 1925, the clocks were unreliable as a time-piece and were later removed. The column of rough cut grey granite, supported on a red-white marble plinth and bracketed by 3 white marble fins, was dedicated by Governor Sir Matthew Nathan on ANZAC Day 1924 in what was then known as The Strand Park. Wrought-iron entrance gates and fencing and several war trophy cannons were installed nearby. Public subscription financed the memorial, designed and constructed by monumental masons, Melrose and Fenwick of Townsville. The Strand Park was renamed ANZAC Park in 1934: a metal arch bearing the new name was erected above the entrance gates, in time for the April 25 ANZAC commemorations. The Strand foreshore fronting the Breakwater Marina contains many other memorials including 27 small plinths holding bronze plaques forming an outer perimeter to the WWI memorial. The focus on ANZAC Day activities since the 1920s has become a natural home for formal and civic commemorations in the north Queensland military city.
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The World Theatre
Explore the World Theatre, a cultural complex where the unique blend of heritage architecture and state of the art technology meet. Browse at your own leisure and check with the friendly staff for details of the live shows, movie times, morning melodies and the free local and touring exhibitions of art, sculpture, photography and more. For an interesting insight into the past ask the staff to tell you the story of the 'Murder on Mosman'.
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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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Thuringowa
Thuringowa extends over an area of 4000 square kilometres and today is a thriving area offering art exhibitions, theatres and performance, swimming lagoons, sporting venues, dining and shopping and plenty of options for family entertainment and fun! The Riverway precinct located in Thuringowa offers a dynamic combination of residential, commercial, cultural, sports and leisure activities. The precinct provides an exciting environment to enjoy a variety of water based and waterfront activities. With two huge swimming lagoons, the Riverway Arts Centre, Pinnacles Gallery, the Riverwalk, public art, village spine, restaurant, and parklands, there truly is so much to explore. Thuringowa's main dining precinct is known as Cannon Park. Cannon Park is a lifestyle centre including a six screen cinema complex and a fantastic selection of cafes and restaurants. Located diagonally across from Willows Shopping Centre on Hervey Range Road and Riverway, it also houses Townsville's only Kingpin Bowling Lounge and laser skirmish and is nearby to a roller skate rink and indoor sports complex.
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Toomulla Beach
This secluded beach is a great spot for birdwaters and family outings. With a designated free tent and vehicle camping area and views across the ocean, Toomulla Beach is a perfect beachside retreat. Launch for a day of fishing from the boat ramp. Toomulla Beach is an ideal location enjoy the unwind and escape everyday hustle and bustle.
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Towers Hill Lookout and Amphitheatre
Local legend has it that an Aboriginal boy named Jupiter first discovered gold at the foot of Towers Hill in December 1871. Today you can find a monument which depicts the location of the first gold sighting at the base of the hill. From there follow the road and uncover the stories of the Hill from the interesting and informative storyboards along the way which feature "Jupiter's Luck," "The Seismograph Station," and "Clark's Gold Mine." Discover 30 different World War II bunkers, one of which is a restored bunker located approximately half way up the Hill. Another track at the summit leads off to the ruins of the Pyrites Works. Early morning is the best time to discover the wildlife living on and around Towers Hill. You will see several species of macropods such as the Eastern Grey Kangaroo, the Whiptail and the Allied Rock Wallabies. Watch as the Wedge-tailed Eagles hunt their prey. Towers Hill comes to life in the evening with the Ghosts after Dark film screened in the Amphitheatre. Admission fees apply. Tickets can be purchased at the Visitor Information Centre.
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Towers Rush
Participate in an Amazing Race style treasure hunt in Charters Towers where you will race to checkpoints and complete challenges to gain points. Be the team with the most points at the end of the race to take out the title at Towers Rush. Be part of the event which has captivated the community and led competitors to abseil heritage buildings, construct food masterpieces, paddle the river, completing puzzles and challenges and much more!
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Townsville
Discover a holiday destination that leaves you feeling energised and alive! Townsville, in North Queensland offers a collection of attractions and events to spark everyone's curiosity! Beneath the protective presence of Castle Hill, Townsville City combines federation architecture with modern fine dining like no other Queensland city. Stroll down The Strand and look over the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef, discover rich WWII history as you reach Jezzine Barracks and take the kids to explore an impressive water-park. Townsville's many attractions include the world's largest living coral reef aquarium, an Australian native wildlife sanctuary, art galleries, museums, parks, restaurants and the spectacular Strand beachfront promenade. If you are seeking an active adventure jump on board a diving trip to the Great Barrier Reef, spot a koala in the wild on Magnetic Island's walking trails, test your balance on a Stand Up Paddle Board on The Strand or admire ocean views along mountain bike trails at Pallarenda. With a diverse range of dining and culinary precincts in Townsville there is something to suit everyone's tastebuds. From fine dining through to iconic Aussie pub meals and funky cocktail bars, Townsville comes alive with an infectious atmosphere! Many of the local restaurants and cafes feature fresh produce grown and sourced directly from within the region, adding a fresh, local flavour to your dining. Need some retail therapy and craving a shopping break? Explore Townsville's range of specialty and boutique shopping opportunities within the City Centre or head to one of the major shopping precincts to discover local produce and the latest fashions. Nature lovers are right at home in Townsville! Dip your toes in the ocean or relax on the shores of one of Townsville's golden beaches, spot a magnificent array of birdlife from the Townsville Town Common, explore lush botanical gardens, stroll along the river walkways or embrace an inspiring sunset on Castle Hill to end your day of exploring. Using Townsville as a holiday base, visitors can experience the natural wonders of the diverse North Queensland region through day tours, cruises or adventure excursions - all operating out of the city.
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Townsville Airport
Townsville Airport is a key regional airport in Queensland, servicing the City of Townsville and the Thuringowa region which represent the centre for business and government activity in North Queensland. As a result there is a significant level of business travel between Townsville, Brisbane and Sydney. Townsville is also a hub for other activity centres in North West Queensland. At Townsville Airport they’re big on welcomes. Max, Alec and John, their Customer Service Officers, do it everyday. Whether you need a taxi, a baggage trolley or just a smile, the boys in the bright shirts are there to help. It’s another way that they strive to make your trip more enjoyable.
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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 Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum of Townsville is best known for its display about the doomed ship SS Yongala, sunk south of Townsville in 1911 with the loss of all 122 on board. The display includes a video recording showing the discovery and archaeology of the wreck, one of the world’s premier wreck dive sites. Other fascinating exhibits include The Women’s War Two display, which provides an insight into the lives of women living and working in Townsville during the Second World War; information about the Royal Australian Navy, the history of Townsville and its port, and the hard hat diving industry of Townsville. A model boat building room, boat shed, small research library and barbecue area can also be found here. The Museum is located on the southern bank of Ross Creek, and is just a short walk to city restaurants and other attractions.
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Townsville Museum and Historical Society
The Townsville Museum and Historical Society has two large exhibition halls displaying artefacts relating to Townsville's medical, artistic, technological and social history. It is located in the suburb of Currajong, in the former Traffic Training Centre building. As well as its extensive artefact collections, the Museum also owns a large number of photographs and plans of Townsville and a more limited collection of documents and books relating to North Queensland. A recent new acquisition is a journal written by Elizabeth O'Brien, widow of Clifford O'Brien, who was drowned in the sinking of the Yongala off the north Queensland coast in 1911. This journal and Elizabeth's story is on permanent display in Hall 2.
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Townsville North Queensland
The best holidays are the ones that leave you feeling energised and alive. Townsville North Queensland gives you that feeling with a collection of destinations and attractions to spark everyone's curiosity. The best place to begin your exploration is Townsville city. Beneath the protective presence of Castle Hill, Townsville City combines federation architecture with modern fine dining like no other Queensland city. Stroll down The Strand and look over the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef, or better understand its beauty with a visit to Reef HQ Aquarium. If it's nature you like, don't miss a walk through Northern Australia's largest colony of wild koalas on Magnetic Island. The remarkable Forts Walk is the best vantage point for wildlife, spectacular rocky coves and historic military sites. Your history lesson continues with a short drive to iconic Charters Towers. Feel the fervour of the gold rush with a trip to The Miner's Cottage where you might just strike it lucky when panning for gold. Or just wander the streets of this celebrated Australian town and sample billy tea and damper straight from the camp oven. A little further south is the Burdekin, the sugar capital of Australia. Sample the legendary Burdekin produce or try your hand at barramundi fishing in the Burdekin River estuaries! Or get even closer to marine life with a scuba dive on the SS Yongala shipwreck - one of the top 10 dive sites in the world. The last destinations to explore are the ancient and awe-inspiring rainforests of Townsville North Queensland. Swim in the crystal clear waterholes of Crystal Creek, stare with amazement at Wallaman Falls in the Hinchinbrook region - the largest single-drop waterfall in Australia - or play hide and seek in the world's oldest continually living rainforest in Paluma National Park. Townsville North Queensland rewards your curiosity. Wander, ramble, peer and unearth, and you'll leave with something more precious than gold: the feeling of being alive.
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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 Palmetum
The Palmetum is a unique tropical experience covering over 17 hectares. It is a botanical garden featuring one family of plants - the palms. Approximately 60 species of palms are native to Australia and most are represented in the Palmetum. The collection contains around 300 species, many rare and threatened in their natural habitat. The Palmetum has been designed to display plants in environmental context to habitat type from the dry tropics to the wet tropical lowlands. In addition to these recreated habitats there are expansive lawns and water features frequented by numerous bird species. The Palmetum features the magnificent 'Tumbetin Lodge'- a heritage building with a long history. Facilities include art exhibitions, public amenities, meeting rooms and restaurant and tea room. The Palmetum also features a Memorial to the Black Hawk Disaster.
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Townsville Seaside Apartments
Townsville Seaside Apartments are fully self contained townhouse style of accommodation. Each apartment has full kitchen, lounge and laundry downstairs with bedroom and bathroom upstairs. The apartments are available with one or two bedrooms. They are located opposite the Strand beach in Townsville. They cater for medium to long term stays for holidays and business trips. They offer free WiFi, Foxtel and parking in their apartments.
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Townsville Street Art
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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Townsville Tennis Centre
The Townsville Tennis Centre, North Ward is the largest and most modern tennis centre in North Queensland. It is located only five minutes from Central Business District and 10 minutes from Townsville airport. The centre has 12 plexipave tennis courts and all are lit for night play. The centre has also a clubhouse, a bar and barbecue facilities. It caters for corporate social functions, public court hire, coaching of juniors and adults. At the centre a comprehensive junior development program is conducted as well as night fixtures and daytime ladies fixtures and premier league. The public are most welcome.
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Townsville Tourist and Lifestyle Village
Townsville Tourist and Lifestyle Village is a family owned and operated business with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Set amongst wonderfully landscaped gardens you will find a range of quality accommodation as well as pet friendly caravan and camping sites to suit the most discerning traveller. Their fully self contained onsite accommodation offers you an affordable home away from home whether you choose the open plan Studio Cabins or the Deluxe Villas. The Studios, which are ideal for couples and single travellers, offer a queen size bed, en-suite shower, kitchenette, lounge/dining area and outdoor setting. Their new two bedroom Deluxe Villas can accommodate up to six people and include a bathroom, full kitchen, laundry, lounge, dining area and verandah with outdoor setting. Their powered sites are available with or without a concrete slab and cater for everything from camping to small RV’s to big rigs. Unpowered sites are also available. The Village boasts a brand-new pool and barbecue area, beautifully renovated amenities and fantastic new camp kitchen. It is a perfect destination conveniently located just minutes from major attractions, shopping, dining, sporting facilities, the university and hospital. Member of Top Parks.
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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 Visitor Information Centre - City
The Townsville City Visitor Information Centre is located in the heart of the Townsville Central Business District just off Flinders Street within Townsville Bulletin Square. This accredited visitor information centre offers a one-stop-shop for travel information including maps, brochures and itineraries. Staffed by skilled and knowledgeable locals, the Flinders Square Visitor Information Centre can provide advice on the things to see, things to do and where to eat. Discuss with the friendly staff your travel plans or make a booking. Travelling with a Caravan or RV? Parking on Flinders Street is limited for Caravans and larger vehicles. Suitable parking is located on Dean Street or close to the Reef HQ and Museum of Tropical Queensland. From Dean Street, take a short walk across The Victoria Bridge to take you right into the heart of the CBD. The Visitor Information Centre is located 700 metres along Flinders Street from Reef HQ and the Museum of Tropical Queensland. Follow the accredited Information Centre signage to find your way. In line with COVID Safe procedures, visitors will be asked to sign a register via the Check-In Qld app and QR Code, and sanitise their hands before entering the centre.
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Townsville Visitor Information Centre - Elliot Springs
The Townsville Visitor Information Centre - Elliot Springs is located on the corner of Elliot Springs Boulevard and Wadda Mooli Parkway just off the Bruce Highway on the southern side of Townsville. This accredited Visitor Information Centre offers a one stop shop for travel information including maps, brochures and itineraries along with Tour and Accommodation Bookings. Staffed by skilled and knowledgeable locals, the Townsville Visitor Information Centre - Elliot Springs can provide advice on the things to see, things to do and where to eat. Discuss and book your travel plans with the friendly staff. Heading North? They are located at Elliot Springs on the left hand side of the road approximately 3 kilometres north of the Alligator Creek Service Station. Heading South? They are located at Elliot Springs on the right hand side of the road approximately 17 kilometres south of Townsville on the Bruce Highway.
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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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TYTO Wetlands
Experience the natural beauty and tranquil environment of TYTO Wetlands, a unique 90-hectare natural wetland which is home to over 245 species of birds, native Australian wildlife and numerous tropical plant species. Take a leisurely stroll along the four kilometres of walkways and stop along the way to enjoy the lookouts and viewing platforms. TYTO Wetlands is located just 500 metres from the township of Ingham and situated just a few hundred metres off the Bruce Highway down Cooper Street; TYTO Wetlands is a carefully preserved natural environment that integrates lagoons, walking tracks and native flora. The area is named after the endangered Eastern Grass Owl (TYTO Longimembris) TYTO meaning monkey faced owl that can be found in the Hinchinbrook Shire, one of the few places in the world where this owl can be spotted regularly. These owl can be seen leaving their grassy habitat just on dusk. The TYTO Precinct also features an interactive and informative Visitor Information Centre, Regional Art Gallery, Parklands, Conference Centre and Library.
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Up The Garden Path Restaurant & Bar
Up The Garden Path Restaurant & Bar is located at 61-79 Mandalay Avenue, Nelly Bay, Magnetic Island. This restaurant is yet to be rated by Zomato users. Serves Australian. The average cost for 2 mains and 2 beverages here is A$110 approximately. Listing provided in partnership with Zomato
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Villa Kembali
Villa Kembali is a magnificent prestige home only metres from three kilometres of stunning north facing Horseshoe Bay beach. Completed with all of the essentials for a magnificent peaceful, relaxing and luxurious break including stunning 270-degree panoramic ocean views across the bay, Villa Kembali is perfect for an extended family or group of friends - there is plenty of space for everyone. This property boasts 4 bedrooms (sleeping 8 plus 2 more with the addition of rollaways), two separate, spacious living areas with bifold doors seamlessly opening to both a large downstairs, timber decked terrace surrounding your private pool area and a huge upstairs balcony and outdoor entertainment area. Other property features include air conditioning in all bedrooms, walking distance from shops, restaurants and activities, two large separate living and entertaining areas, pool with spa and surrounding decking, gourmet kitchen, barbecue area, bar area overlooking pool and beach, under cover parking, televisions in both living areas and a fully equipped laundry.
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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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Wambiana Station
Wambiana Station is a family-owned, working cattle station in North Queensland, which have been providing unforgettable outback experiences for groups since 1993. At Wambiana, you’ll develop a genuine insight into what it means to live, work and raise a family in the Australian bush, whilst doing so sustainably, generation after generation. They cater for school groups, university/tertiary groups, tour groups and special interest groups and are located less than 3 hours drive from Townsville (or a 1-hour drive from Charters Towers.) Wambiana is also equipped to host workshops in air conditioned comfort, surrounded by the striking landscape of the Australian bush, and provided with genuine country hospitality.
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Wanderers Holiday Village - Lucinda
Wanderer's Holiday Village is a nature-lover's tropical beachside caravan park. Birds abound in the numerous palm trees in the village, including black cockatoos and torresian pigeons in summer and stone curlews nesting in the village in winter. It is situated on the North Queensland coast, two hours drive north of Townsville, and three hours drive south of Cairns, opposite the southern tip of Hinchinbrook Island. The Hinchinbrook Channel offers safe boating, fishing, dugong and sea turtle observation, with access from the Lucinda boat ramp (one kilometre), whilst those without a boat have the beach (200 metres), estuaries and jetty from which to cast a line, or enjoy long walks. Winter in North Queensland offers warm sunny days, with endless opportunities in the great outdoors, including natural attractions such as Wallaman Falls, Broadwater State Forest Park, Mount Fox Crater, creeks and waterholes and the Thorsborne Trail, one of the nominated Great Walks of the World, on Hinchinbrook Island. There are 162 shady sites, a huge well-maintained amenities block, and 14 airconditioned, self-contained cabins which surround two shady swimming pools for refreshing all year swimming. Activities that are accessible from the village are eco-tours, reef fishing, snorkelling, island visits and walking trails.
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Watermark
Zomato users recommend Sea Food, Steak, Chips and Burgers at Watermark. Most of the visitors also appreciated the Decor. Watermark is located at 72-74 The Strand. It is rated 3.4 by 63 Zomato users. Serves Seafood, Spanish, Modern Australian. The average cost for 2 mains and 2 beverages here is A$30 approximately. Listing provided in partnership with Zomato
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Wheeler Reef Dive Site
Wheeler Reef, on the Great Barrier Reef, is an easy boat trip from Townsville in North Queensland. The site offers some of the most pretty reefs for exploring by snorkelers as well as divers of all experience levels. With the reef depth varying from two metres down to 18 metres, there is an abundance of coral and sea life coating every last surface. The impressive lagoon is home to large schools of reef, tropical and pelagic fish, all waiting to explore the many gullies, canyons, caves and swim-throughs that this reef is famous for with you.
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World Triathlon Multisport World Championship Townsville 2022
ITU Multisport World Championships sees the world’s best athletes head to Townsville from 18-28 August 2022 to compete across five world championship disciplines comprising various male and female race categories for elite, age group and para-triathletes. The Championships debuted three years ago and it has quickly grown into one of the most popular and diverse events on the global calendar. There is something for every athlete, with five World Championship titles up for grabs across the ten days of competition; in duathlon, cross triathlon, aquathlon, aquabike and long-distance triathlon. The Multisport Festival - secured through a partnership between Tourism and Events Queensland, Townsville City Council, IRONMAN, Triathlon Australia and Townsville Enterprise - will be the biggest sporting event ever to be held in Townsville attracting more than 8000 athletes and spectators. Athletes are required to qualify through events sanctioned by their respective national federations.
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Zara Clark Museum
This National Trust museum houses a large collection of photographs, equipment and other memorabilia that reflects Charters Towers' golden and military past. Their friendly volunteers are only too willing to share their special stories and demonstrate some of the equipment that is housed in the historic Burns Philp building, built in 1888. Ask for a demonstration of the flying fox (the Lampson Aerial Cash System from the old Pollards building). There are many other items too that will pull you into the drama and excitement that was Charters Towers 130 odd years ago. History buffs and collectors can put themselves to the test with the Museum's display of objects that so far have defied efforts to identify or date and the volunteers are delighted to show them off. Charters Towers has a proud military history from the Boer to Vietnam wars, housed in the Charles Wallace Military display. One of the more poignant pieces from World War I is a pair of half knitted socks, abandoned when a mum received news that her son had been killed, they are displayed exactly as she left them 100 years ago. Allow half an hour at least.
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ZephAir Australia Aircraft Charters
ZephAir Australia is based in Townsville and is a subsidiary of Koolardie Aviation Pty Ltd, a 100 per cent Australian and locally owned company. Building on the success of their rotary and fixed-wing schools, they have now taken their renowned reputation to the fixed-wing charter arena. Located in their own Hangar 85 with direct access to the Townsville International Airport runway, delayed security screening and check in processes are no longer a concern. As well as charter flights they also offer scenic tours and other airwork - including but not limited to aerial surveys, fire spotting, aerial photography, and wildlife spotting.
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