When the annual Australian Lamb ad lands, you know two things are guaranteed: a good laugh, and a national debate you didn’t know you needed. 

This year’s ad takes on the World Happiness Index and Australia’s rightful place back in the global top 10 - served up with peak Aussie humour. And tucked neatly into the punchlines? A very welcome mention of Townsville. 

“Sweden may have saunas - but we have Townsville.” 

Look, Australian Lamb… we get it. Townsville can get a little steamy. But we’ll happily take the comparison - and raise you: year-round summer, lamb chops on the barbie, and a premiership-winning basketball team literally called the Fire. 

And honestly - why sit in a timber box sweating it out when you can warm up in far better ways? 
On our beaches. 
On our islands. 
Or hiking to jaw-dropping vistas with ocean views and a cool breeze (yes, they exist). 

Saunas might have their health benefits, and with health and fitness topping New Year’s resolutions for 2026, we see only one logical solution… 

Book a holiday to Townsville. 

Top Ways to Heat It Up in Townsville (No Sauna Required) 

Hit the Beach (BBQs Included) 

There’s nowhere better to fire up the barbie (and yes, they’re free) than The Strand. 

Kilometres of beachfront, sweeping views across to Magnetic Island, playgrounds for the kids, and coffee within arm’s reach - it’s basically Australia’s version of a wellness retreat… and Lamb chops taste better with an ocean view. Science hasn’t proven it, but we’re confident. 

Take a Hike (Earn the Sweat) 

If you’re keen to break a sweat the natural way, Townsville has you covered.  

• Castle Hill for sunrise views that make early mornings worth it  
• Forts Walk on Magnetic Island for WWII history, wild koalas and postcard moments or  

• The Thorsborne Trail, Hinchinbrook Island - for those chasing a multi-day adventure with Jurassic-level scenery and some of the most impressive views in the world 

And just quietly… you don’t get that kind of experience in a glass box. 

Make Friends (The Aussie Way) 

If awkwardly sitting in silence with strangers in a hot box isn’t your thing - we get it. 

Instead, swap the sauna for something far more memorable at Billabong Sanctuary, where you can meet and greet some of Australia’s most iconic locals. From koalas and kangaroos to crocs, cassowaries and everything in between, it’s hands-on, feel-good fun that’s equal parts wildlife encounter and sunshine therapy. 

Island Time Hits Different 

If your idea of heating things up involves turquoise water and island vibes, Magnetic Island delivers in spades. 

Just 20 minutes offshore, “Maggie” is where the pace slows and the fun ramps up - snorkelling in secluded bays, spotting wild koalas, swimming, sailing or simply floating the day away. It’s warm, relaxed and impossibly scenic… and still technically counts as wellness, right? 

Prefer Contrast Therapy? We’ve Got That Too. 

For those who love a hot-then-cold moment (we see you, Sweden), Townsville delivers - naturally. 

Cold Plunge, Rainforest Edition 

Head for the hills to Paluma National Park, where the temperature drops around 10 degrees and crystal-clear creeks, waterfalls and swimming holes do the rest. 

Set among World Heritage rainforest, this is cold therapy without the stainless-steel tub - and with far better views. 

Cool Off on the Great Barrier Reef 

While it may not hit seven degrees, plunging into the Great Barrier Reef is still one of the most refreshing (and unforgettable) ways to cool down. 

Snorkel or dive vibrant coral, swim with tropical marine life, and explore John Brewer Reef, home to an underwater museum that proves Townsville doesn’t just do wellness - we do wonder. 

So yes - Sweden may have saunas. But when it comes to warmth, lifestyle and happiness? 

We’ll take Townsville every time.