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Home , Billabong Sanctuary, Federation architecture, Great Palm Island, Magnetic Island, Townsville, Tropical Queensland

Visitor Guide 2019 ITTF World Veterans Tour Accessing North

Airport Reception

With over 23,000 airline seats weekly, it has never been more convenient to access the Townsville region.

Each year Townsville welcomes over 1.6 million passengers via major airlines, with direct flights from , , Darwin, , and regional Queensland centres. And with new direct paths added, it’s even easier for your guests to get to Townsville.

Townsville Direct Flight Map Average Direct Flight Times Cairns 1hr Mackay 1hr 1hr 50min Darwin Brisbane 1hr 55min Sydney 2hr 35min Darwin 2hr 45min Cairns Melbourne 3hr TOWNSVILLE Mackay

Brisbane Toowoomba Gold Coast

Sydney

Melbourne

Airline Providers Currently Servicing TWNSVIE CIT MAP Mercure Townsville

Mercure Townsville is ideally located within walking distance of one of Townsville’s major shopping centre’s.

Amenities include free WiFi, a resort style pool with spa, tennis courts, bar and resturant with a la carte and buffet options.

Room Type Room Only B&B Rate Configuration

1x King Bed or Superior Room $149.00 Additional $10.00pp 2 x King Singles (On request) * Special booking code: World Veterans Tour. Please quote at time of booking.

Address: 66-194 Woolcock Street, Currajong Phone: 07) 4759 4900 View more information online

PLEASE NOTE: ALL RATES ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AT TIME OF BOOKING. Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville

Grand Chancellor Townsville, situated in the heart of the city offers stunning views across the city, Castle Hill and towards , from a range of contemporary guests rooms and rooftop pool.Within close walking distance to restaurants & nightlife Hotel Grand Chancellor also offers an onsite bar and resturant.

Room Type Room Only B&B Rate Configuration

2 x double or Standard Twin/King $120.00 Additional $15.00pp 1 x king bed

* Special booking code: World Veterans Tour. Please quote at time of booking.

Address: 334 Flinders Street Phone: +61 7 4729 2000 View more information online

PLEASE NOTE: ALL RATES ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AT TIME OF BOOKING. Grand Hotel and

Grand Hotel and Apartments is ideally located in the heart of Townsville’s premier dining precinct.

Apartments are fully self-contained with kitchen and laundry facilities, guests also have access to room service and room charge back options.

Facilities also include sundeck swimming pool and spa area and a full modern gymnasium.

Room Type Room Only B&B Rate Configuration

King or Twin Bedding Superior King $189.00 Room service and available resturant charge back 1 Bedroom King or Twin Bedding $209.00 options available * Special booking code: World Veterans Tour. Please quote at time of booking.

Address: 8-10 Palmer Street Phone: +61 7 47532800 View more information online

PLEASE NOTE: ALL RATES ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AT TIME OF BOOKING. The Ville Resort-Casino

The Ville Resort-Casino is a 4.5 star property superbly located right on the water overlooking Magnetic Island.

The Ville have several onsite dinning options and one of the best spots in town to enjoy an afternoon beverage.

Room Type Room Only B&B Rate Configuration

King or Twin Bedding Deluxe Hotel Room $155.00 available Additional $25.00pp King or Twin Bedding Resort Hotel Room $185.00 available * Special booking code: World Veterans Tour. Please quote at time of booking.

Address: Sir Leslie Theiss Drive Phone: +61 7 4722 333 View more information online

PLEASE NOTE: ALL RATES ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AT TIME OF BOOKING.

Getting Around

Rental Cars and People Movers SeaLink - Magnetic Island You'll find the Townsville Airport Thrifty desk SeaLink operates up to 18 daily services to Sunbus is Townsville's public transport in the arrivals area, so you can get straight Magnetic Island and will have you in service. For all Townsville bus timetable off your plane and pick up your car to hit the paradise in only 20 minutes on one of their information please visit their website - road. For exclusive deals and prices, please high-speed catamarans. Their terminal is visit: located walking distance from the City wwww.sunbus.com.au Centre - no need to pre-book your https://www.thrifty.com.au/Townsville- ticket, tickets are available at the terminal or Enterprise-Limited onboard the boast if the terminal is closed.

Ph:+61747254655 For Ferry timetables and more information please visit - wwww.sealinkqld.com.au Ph: +617 4726 0800

Townsville Taxis Book a safe, reliable ride with Townsville Taxi's professional drivers. Download their app for quick, convenient bookings. Detour Coaches Detour Coaches specialise in charters from Ph: 131 008 16 people to 600. If you're after more than www.tsvtaxi.com.au just transport - the team can also assist with tours in Townsville and North Queensland Magnetic Island region. Magnetic Island Ferries run both a car and passenger ferry service. If you are thinking Ph: +617 4728 5311 of heading over to Magnetic Island for a few www.detourscoaches.com.au nights, or even a day trip and would like to take your vehicle - check out Magnetic Island Ferries timetable and booking process here -

www.magneticislandferries.com.au Ph: +617 4796 9300 LIFESTYLEWILDLIFE AND NATURE

DINING PRECINCTS

Palmer Street Cannon Park City Lane Located on the city’s south bank, Palmer Located a short distance from the Riverway The dining scene in Townsville North Street captures the essence of international precinct and 1300Smiles Stadium – home of Queensland has come alive with Townsville’s cuisine and is a prime location to start your the – Cannon first creative laneway precinct. Offering day or night out boasting award winning Park offers diners a range of cuisine and a variety of dining options, City Lane on restaurants for breakfast, lunch or dinner. a social atmosphere. You can catch a live Flinders Street is a sophisticated, New York Whether you desire Indian, Italian, French, show at Riverway Arts Centre, see a movie at inspired precinct complete with street art, Mexican, modern Australian or locally caught the cinemas, challenge your friends at tenpin funky décor and an atmosphere to match. seafood, this is Townsville’s premier eating bowling or have a pint at the local Irish . strip.

Flinders Street Central Village Gregory Street and The Strand Revellers looking to keep the party going For a fun night out, why not catch the latest The alfresco dining and proximity to the after dinner should look no further than the movie at the cinema followed by dinner at beach makes Gregory Street and The Strand inner city. Flinders Street boasts an eclectic Central Village. This new dining precinct the perfect stop for a meal. Spoil yourself mix of restaurants, nightclubs, and offers a collection of sidewalk cafes and with a delicious gelato or have a relaxing cocktail bars. Flinders Street East buzzes with alfresco dining. drink at one of the restaurants or bars found a lively atmosphere with patrons enjoying along The Strand. Gregory Street is also cocktails, tapas and dancing the night away home to several boutique shopping outlets in the nightclubs. and is the perfect spot to enjoy some retail therapy after a bite to eat. FOOD & DRINK JAM BRIDGEWATER Experience ’s very best Enjoy a meal by award winning chef breakfast (Australian Savour Awards) . Matt Merrin or a drink and small bite to eat at Bridge Bar.

www.jamcorner.com.au www.bridgewaterq.com.au

CBAR THE PIER The ocean breezes and views across to Enjoy locally sourced seafood at a Magnetic Island will give you that holiday stunning waterfront location. feeling in no time.

www.cbar.com.au www.pierrestaurantandbar.com

MISS SONGS TOWNSVILLE BREWERY Located at the Ville Resort - let Miss Sit back enjoying a meal while you watch Songs take you on a journey across the the beer making process of the local Orient. Townsville Bitter.

www.the-ville.com.au www.townsvillebrewery.com

SHORE HOUSE CITY LANE Enjoy modern Asian Cuisine and watch City Lane is an absolute must visit, the world go by from their ocean front offering a bevy of dining options to suit deck. everyone’s tastes. www.shorehousetownsvile.com.au www.citylane.com.au

LONGBOARD BAR AND GRILL WILD GOOSE Dine with breathtaking views from BREWS AND CHEWS Townsville’s award-winning beachfront to Loosen into holiday mode with a range of Magnetic Island. food, beer and cocktails.

www.longboardbarandgrill.com www.wildgoose.net.au LIFESTYLEWILDLIFE AND NATURE LIFESTYLEWILDLIFE AND NATURE

FOOD & DRINK

PALM HOUSE CACTUS JACKS Change what you thought you knew An outing to Cactus Jacks for a Mexican about buffet dining. Showcasing the fiesta is guaranteed to be a fun night out freshest produce North Queensland that the whole family will enjoy! has to offer with a little bit of flair. www.cactusjacks.com.au www.the-ville.com.au

A OF SALT OTTO'S FRESH FOOD MARKET Take in the waterfront views and You will be spoiled for choice at enjoy one of Townsville's favorite Otto's. Choose from their Deli, casual fine dinning restaurants. Artisian Bakehaus, Pizza Palour or www.atouchofsalt.com.au order straight off the menu. www.ottosmarket.com.au

CELCIUS RESTAURANT RAMBUTAN Enjoy fresh food in relaxing poolside Dine poolside at Rambutan on Flinders ambience at Celcius Restaurant and Bar, Street, with cocktails, pool parties and located at Mercure Townsville. delicious meals! www.mercuretownsville.com www.rambutantownsville.com.

TIDE CAFE SOUTHBANK GRILL A great place to grab coffee, breakfast or Savour tasty grill selections and imbibe lunch, right on The Strand. classic cocktails at Southbank Grill at Rydges Southbank Townsville. www.tidecafe.com.au www.rydges.com

PEPPERS BLUE ON BLUE Quarterdeck Fine dining meets island lifestyle at Imagine relaxing with a chilled bottle of Peppers on Magnetic Island, with wine or ice cold beer and tapas delights beautiful views across the marina. as you gaze across to magnetic island. www.peppers.com.au www.the-ville.com.au

CIRCA 20 COWBOYS LEAGUES CLUB Mix amongst the locals at Circa 20, Soak up the atmosphere at the Cowboy’s located at the local Brothers League Club, home of the North Leagues Club. Queensland Toyota Cowboys. www.brotherstsv.com.au www.cowboysleagues.com.au

HOOCH AND FELLOW HERBERT HOTEL Enjoy a signature cocktail at Hooch With an extensive Pub Grub menu, It and Fellow but get in quick - the menu doesn’t get more Australian than the changes every week! Herbert Hotel. www.theherbie.com www.facebook.com/hoochandfellow

FROSTY HERVEYS RANGE Healthy, fresh, home-made food and HERITAGE TEA ROOMS icecream made with love in Escape the hustle and bustle of city life as North Queensland. you enjoy this quaint cafe shop.

www.frostymango.com.au www.heritagetearooms.com.au LIFESTYLEWILDLIFE AND NATURE FREE LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

Driving Distance from City Centre TOWNSVILLE

THE STRAND 3 MINS CASTLE HILL 11 MINS Just metres short of a mountain, Castle Immerse yourself in the Townsville Hill is the giant pink granite monolith that way of life and discover The Strand, stands proud in the centre of Townsville Townsville’s thriving beach foreshore! - a perfect place for visitors to orientate themselves.

10 MINS CAPE PALLARENDA BOTANIC GARDENS 13 MINS Walk or mountain bike the shared trails Explore Townsville’s popular botanic throughout the park to see the World gardens including Anderson Gardens, War II structures on the Cape Pallarenda Queens Gardens and The Palmetum. headland and explore the beaches and forested slopes of Many Peak Range.

JEZZINE BARRACKS 6 MINS TOWN COMMON 14 MINS Discover the military and Aboriginal Summer rains transform the Town heritage of the Kissing Point headland Common area into an immense wetland, through artworks, displays and the attracting large flocks of waterbirds. For restoration of the Kissing Point birdwatchers, the park is a paradise with Fort complex. up to 280 bird species recorded here.

MAGNETIC ISLAND 20 MIN FERRY TRANSFER

ROCK WALLABIES SNORKEL TRAILS The sociable rock wallabies at Geoffrey Discover amazing fringing coral reefs at Bay are perhaps some of the cutest Geoffrey and Nelly Bay. Pick up a swim creatures on Magnetic Island. Grab a bag card to learn about the coral and fish you of wallaby feed from the nearby Arcadia may encounter along the way and walk Newsagency. right of the beach to start exploring!

THE FORTS WALK IN THE WILD Don’t miss the remarkable Forts Walk on Magnetic Island is home to North Magnetic Island: the best vantage point Australia’s largest colony of koalas living for wildlife (including koalas), spectacular in the wild, so keep your eyes peeled for rocky coves and historic military sites. koalas in the trees above. FREEWILDLIFE LOCAL ANDATTRACTIONS NATURE

PALUMA AND HINCHINBROOK 1.5 HRS DRIVE 2.5 HRS PALUMA NATIONAL PARK 1 HR You’ll be amazed when you stand in Experience the thrill of spotting the rare front of Wallaman Falls, the Southern golden bowerbird and take a step back in Hemisphere’s highest permanent single time at Paluma village. Enjoy a drop waterfall, located in Girringun walk and breathtaking views from National Park. McClellands Lookout.

TYTO WETLANDS 1.5 HRS PUB WITH NO BEER 1.5 HRS Experience the natural beauty and Enjoy a cold one at Lees Hotel Motel, tranquil environment of TYTO Wetlands, made famous by Slim Dusty’s number a unique 90-hectare natural wetland. one hit song Pub ‘With No Beer’. Spot native Australian wildlife along the walkways and lookouts.

1.15 HRS JOURAMA FALLS LUCINDA JETTY 2 HRS Relax, camp, walk and spot native wildlife At 5.76 kilometres long, Lucinda holds amongst the rainforest at Jourama Falls. the longest service jetty in the Southern Enjoy a picnic, hike to lookout platforms Hemisphere, which follows the curved and take a dip in the creeks and contour of the Earth. rockslides.

CHARTERS TOWERS 1.5 HRS DRIVE TOWERS HILL STOCK EXCHANGE ARCADE Immerse yourself in the history of One of Australia’s first regional stock on Towers Hill. Spot exchanges, the price of gold was once native wildlife and step back in time to set in this very Arcade. Today, you can learn about the 1871 Gold Rush. discover cafes, shops, galleries and displays in the historic building.

BURDEKIN 1 HR DRIVE CANE FIRES FISHING Witness a magnificent cane fire light up Fantastic fishing is on offer in the the evening in the Burdekin, one of the waterways of the Burdekin Delta. Tours few regions in Australia where cane is are available to catch barramundi, mud burnet before harvesting, crabs, , jack and more!

Pre and Post Touring

The best holidays are the ones that leave you feeling energised A little further south is the Burdekin, the sugar capital of and alive. Townsville North Queensland gives you that feeling Australia. Sample the legendary Burdekin produce or try your with a collection of destinations and attractions to spark hand at barramundi fishing in the estuaries! anyone’s curiosity. Or get even closer to marine life with a scuba dive on the S.S. Yongala shipwreck – one of the top ten dive sites in the world. The best place to begin your exploration is Townsville City. Beneath the protective presence of Castle Hill, Townsville City The last destinations to explore are the ancient and awe- combines with modern fine dining like inspiring of Townsville North Queensland. Swim no other Queensland city. Stroll down The Strand and look over in the crystal clear waterholes of Crystal Creek, stare with the breathtaking , or better understand its amazement at Wallaman Falls in the Hinchinbrook region – beauty with a visit to Reef HQ Aquarium. the largest single-drop waterfall in Australia – or play hide ’n’ seek in the world’s oldest continually living rainforest If it’s nature you like, don’t miss a walk around Magnetic Island, in Paluma Range National Park. where you can spot Northern Australia’s largest colony of wild koalas. The remarkable Forts Walk is the best vantage point Townsville North Queensland rewards your curiosity. Wander, for wildlife, spectacular rocky coves and historic military sites. ramble, peer and unearth, and you’ll leave with something more precious than gold: the feeling of being alive! 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. Discover Townsville North Queensland

Mayor Jenny Hill recommends... • Indulge with a gelato on The Strand • Day trip to Magnetic Island • Watch one of our national sporting teams in action • Walk up Castle Hill Jezzine Barracks • Dive the S.S. Yongala or skydive over The Strand • Enjoy an exhibition at Regional Located at northern end of The Strand, Gallery and the Jezzine Barracks hold special significance for the people of Townsville. The area has been redeveloped and includes a coastal path with magnificent views of Cleveland Bay and Magnetic Island, with disability access to Kissing Point headland. Interpretive artwork, way points and lookouts also feature and a walkway connects the popular Strand with the far reaching Pallarenda beach front. Castle Hill Townsville CBD

Just metres short of a mountain, Castle The Townsville CBD is growing its Hill is the giant pink granite monolith reputation as a centre for food and that stands proud in the centre of entertainment. Visitors can enjoy Townsville – serving as the perfect place boutique shopping, alfresco dining and for visitors to orientate themselves with Sunday local markets. The CBD is well the city. Take the easy drive to the top for connected with the Palmer Street dining stunning panoramic views of Magnetic and accommodation precinct located Riverway Island and Cleveland Bay, Townsville City just a short walk from the central hub and suburbs and the Northern Beaches. of Square over the Two huge swimming lagoons, playgrounds, Challenge yourself and join the 1,000+ historic Bridge. Make the most parklands, a performance and arts centre locals that run and walk up the Hill every of the free Wi-Fi in Townsville Bulletin and a sports stadium, all situated on the day – if you’re up for it. Square and pop in to see the Volunteers banks of the . The Riverway at the Visitor Information Centre. precinct is perfect for families looking to enjoy the great outdoor lifestyle that North Queensland is famous for.

The Strand Flinders Street Townsville’s famous foreshore, The Strand, is the perfect place to relax Those revellers looking to keep the Reef HQ Aquarium during your visit. Stretching 2.5km and party going after dinner should look no offering views across Cleveland Bay further than the inner city. Flinders Street Reef HQ Aquarium is the world’s largest to Magnetic Island, The Strand is a boasts an eclectic mix of restaurants, living aquarium and the favourite for locals and visitors alike. nightclubs, pubs and cocktail bars. National Education Centre for the Great BBQ facilities, swimming enclosures, City Lane is a great place to start your Barrier Reef. Reef HQ Aquarium provides freshwater showers, a waterpark, night whether it’s for drinks or dinner. the most outstanding Great Barrier playgrounds and waterfront dining make Flinders Street East buzzes with a lively Reef experience through education, this the obvious place to visit. atmosphere with patrons enjoying inspiration and entertainment. The Reef cocktails, tapas and dancing in the HQ Aquarium Turtle Hospital provides nightclubs until late. a dedicated facility where sick and injured marine turtles are cared for and rehabilitated. tells the story of the HMS Pandora, the The Strand the perfect stop for a meal. ship sent by British Admiralty to capture Spoil yourself with a delicious gelato the Bounty and her mutinous crew. or have a relaxing drink at one of the The Museum also hosts a series of restaurants or bars found along The visiting displays and touring exhibitions Strand. Gregory Street is also home to throughout the year. The kids will love several boutique shopping outlets and the Enchanted Rainforest display. is the perfect spot to enjoy some retail therapy after a bite to eat. On the outskirts of the city, Billabong Sanctuary is an interactive wildlife park set in 11 hectares of wilderness. Hold a , cuddle a , smile at a or wrap a python around your neck. Animal talks and feedings occur throughout the day – don’t forget your camera. Dining, Drinking and Dancing Cannon Park Whether it’s sipping cocktails overlooking The Strand, dining on trying Located a short distance from the your luck at Jupiters Townsville Hotel & Riverway precinct and 1300SMILES Casino, fine dining on Palmer Street Stadium, home of the North Queensland or partying until late in Flinders Street Cowboys, Cannon Park offers diners Museums nightclubs, there is plenty to do after a range of cuisine and a social the sun sets. atmosphere. You can catch a live show Townsville offers a number of museums at Riverway Arts Centre, see a movie at showcasing the rich history and the cinemas, challenge your friends at stories of the region. As well as the tenpin bowling or have a pint at the local award-winning Museum of Tropical Irish pub. Queensland, other museums include the Maritime Museum, the Townsville Military Museum, the Townsville Royal Australian Air Force Museum and the National Heritage Trust Centre. Palmer Street z Located on the city’s south bank, Palmer Street captures the essence of international cuisine. Palmer Street is a Shopping prime location to start your night, or day, boasting award-winning restaurants for Townsville boasts five major shopping breakfast, lunch or dinner. Whether you precincts – the Central Business Perc Tucker Regional Gallery desire Indian, Asian, Italian, French, District, Domain Central, Castletown Mexican, modern Australian or locally Shoppingworld, Stockland Townsville Townsville’s premier regional art gallery, caught seafood, this is Townsville’s and Willows Shopping Centre. Visitors offering a dynamic range of local, premium eating strip. can find local fashion boutiques located national and international exhibitions. in and around the CBD, as well as on Palmer, Flinders and Gregory Streets. Townsville is also home to popular retailer, , at Stockland, perfect for those looking for the latest fashions. Markets are regularly held throughout the region, with fresh produce, homemade sweets, plants, flowers, clothing and Museum of Gregory Street and The Strand crafts available.

Located in the heart of Townsville city, The alfresco dining and proximity to the Museum of Tropical Queensland the beach makes Gregory Street and Discover Magnetic Island

Located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park just 8km and a 20 minute ferry ride off the coast of Townsville, Magnetic Island is the perfect tropical escape for a day or a week. With 23 Top Five ‘must do’ Experiences beaches and bays, Magnetic Island has the natural beauty and serenity of untouched paradise within a thriving community.

The rocky granite headlands fuse with sheltered bays and beaches, studded with majestic hoop pines trees, creating a dramatic coastline. Over two-thirds of the Island is protected as National Park, providing a haven for native wildlife, including rock wallabies, koalas, possums and over 100 species of birdlife. 1  Snorkel the fringing reefs around Magnetic Island’s Explore the National Park from bay to bay on a network of most popular beaches on one of the designated walking tracks through dry woodlands of wattles and eucalypts snorkel trails and pockets of rainforest, viewing native animals up close in their natural habitats. Snorkel or sail on one of the bays and discover tropical fish and other marine life that live in the surrounding reefs and tranquil waters.

2 Explore the 25km of walking tracks on the Island

3 Observe the rock wallabies at in Arcadia

4  See Northern Australia’s largest colony of koalas in the wild on The Forts Walk Getting There and Around

Magnetic Island is only 20 minutes on the SeaLink Queensland ferry from Townsville and once you’ve docked it’s straight into Island life. If you haven’t brought your own vehicle over on the Fantasea Cruising Magnetic barge, the public bus service makes tripping around the Island a breeze. Alternatively, you can hire a scooter, colourful topless car or baby four wheel drive.

Other options for the fitness conscious traveller include exploring 5  Sail around the Island to discover some secluded bays the wilderness via walking tracks or bike riding from bay to bay. Discover Paluma and the Northern Beaches

Northern Beaches

For a relaxing day out, Townsville’s northern beaches - just 60km north of the city - are the ideal getaway. Bushland, Saunders, Toolakea, Toomulla and Balgal Beaches are perfect for fishing, swimming, picnicking and bird watching.

Crystal Creek

For a pleasant change of climate and scenery, travel north along the and turn left to Crystal Creek in Paluma Range National Park. With two swimming holes, Big Crystal Creek and Little Crystal Creek, this area is a favourite for Townsville locals and offers the perfect place to cool off on a warm day. Big Crystal Creek, at the base of the Paluma Range, features a large swimming hole, natural rock slides and a picnicking area, perfect for families and larger groups.

Little Crystal Creek, located 11km up the winding road to Paluma Village, is well known for its historic stone arch bridge built in the 1930s. Cascading waterfalls feed into one of the best freshwater swimming holes in the north.

Paluma

Embrace the natural beauty of the Paluma Range National Park – the southern gateway to the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Escape the coastal lowland heat and relax in the cool mountain air of the Paluma Range. Experience the thrill of being one of the ‘lucky ones’ that spots the rare golden bowerbird, and take a step back in history at Paluma, the village in the rainforest. Absorb the exotic sounds of birdlife on a rainforest walk and smile for the cameras at McClellands Lookout as you enjoy stunning views along the coast.

Travelling on from Paluma, 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 and Tours, an exclusive retreat offering daily platypus tours and home cooked meals. Discover the Great Barrier Reef

Accessible from Townsville, the central section of the Great . Barrier Reef offers some of the best diving sites on the east coast, from shallow lagoons, pinnacles rising from 30m to 5m from the surface, walls, swim throughs and wrecks.

Located a little further off the coast, the central section has less impact from human activity. Day trips often visit Lodestone Reef, home to a variety of habitats from shallow areas with white sandy sea floor and large coral bommies (outcrops) to steep slopes with deep crevasses hosting a great diversity of fish life, including small damsels and butterfly fish to larger animals like the giant trevally and occasional reef shark.

The multi-day trips mostly travel at night to maximise time on the reef, visiting a variety of locations including Wheeler Reef, with its white sandy cay and many pelagic species, Davies Reef with pinnacles rising from 30m and shallower bommies riddled with swim throughs and caves, Barra Bommie at Little Broadhurst Reef, where you can spot an octopus, and Australia’s best dive the S.S. Yongala Wreck, with the biggest diversity of large marine life around the world - Queensland gropers weighing over 300kgs, giant trevally, turtles, sea Diving on the Great Barrier Reef snakes, bull sharks and eagle rays just to mention a few.

S.S. Yongala

Experienced divers should visit the S.S. Yongala, a 28m deep shipwreck, that sank off the coast of Ayr (just south of Townsville in the Burdekin) during a tropical in 1911. Rated the number one(1) dive site by Scuba Travel in 2017, the SS Yongala is home to a captivating array of hard and soft coral and spectacular marine life including sea turtles, sea anemone and thousands of inquisitive reef fish. Dive trips to the SS Yongala depart from Townsville, Magnetic Island and Alva Beach in the Burdekin. This historic wreck will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. Exploring the S.S. Yongala shipwreck courtesy of Adrenalin Dive

Hinchinbrook Island

Separated from the mainland only by the narrow Hinchinbrook Channel, the rugged peaks of National Park rise abruptly from the sea, signalling the Island’s wild nature. Hinchinbrook is home to the world renowned wilderness walk, the Thorsborne Trail. Covering 32km, the Trail follows some of Australia’s most scenic island coastline. Discover sweeping bays, sandy beaches, extensive , fragile heaths, dense forests and lofty summits - perfect for the traveller with a thirst for adventure. Hinchinbrook Island by Paul Ewart Orpheus Island

Charter a boat, take your own or jump on a helicopter to unwind on Orpheus Island National Park in the Palm Group of Islands. Book into the luxury resort or set up a self-sufficient camp in one of the Island’s secluded camping areas. Snorkel off the beach in blue-green reef waters to discover a marine wonderland or look and listen for birds in the forest and on the Orpheus Island shore. This is a true tropical island experience!

Palm Island

Located 65km north-west of Townsville, Palm Island is the traditional country of the people and, more recently, home of the tribal people. Palm Island’s assets are its unique Indigenous heritage and its location within the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The pristine waters of the area make it a great fishing spot for by Megan MacKinnon and coral trout.

Sailing and Fishing on the Great Barrier Reef

Townsville North Queensland’s tropical weather provides the perfect environment for sailing and boating. Experienced sailors can charter a vessel to sail through the many secluded areas. If you prefer group interaction, there are plenty of day trips departing Townsville and Magnetic Island.

The Great Barrier Reef is a fisherman’s paradise with some of the most succulent catches being spanish mackerel, coral trout, red emperor and sweet lip. More than one-third of the Great Barrier Reef is declared a ‘no-take zone’, so if you are looking to catch and cook, check the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s Sailing by Cameron Laird Zoning Regulations before you leave the shore.

Clownfish by Jenny Huang Discover Hinchinbrook

Mayor Ramon Jayo recommends... • Visit the unique and awe-inspiring • T ake a walk along the TYTO Wetlands Wallaman Falls walkway, keeping an eye out for the vast • T ake in the Island views from Lucinda Jetty, the amount of wildlife that call the Wetlands home longest in the Southern Hemisphere at 5.76km

If , eco-adventures, cultural heritage and Natural Experiences beautiful beaches are on your list for the perfect holiday, Hinchinbrook is a must-see destination. This scenic region is You will be amazed when you stand in front of Wallaman Falls, just an hour’s drive north of Townsville and is a wonderland of the Southern Hemisphere’s highest permanent single-drop nature based attractions in a vibrant cultural setting. waterfall, located in . In between the forest clad ridge tops and rainforest lined gullies and creeks, Numerous walking tracks, historic sites as well as national Wallaman Falls stands at almost 300m. Experience the beauty parks for picnics, photography and bike riding beckon you to of World Heritage rainforest and spectacular gorge views on explore this piece of Townsville North Queensland. short walking tracks near the Falls.

Wetland Wonders Girringun National Park is also the gateway to the Wet Tropics Great Walks. Discover plunging waterfalls, lush gorges and TYTO Wetlands is a unique 120ha natural wetland area that is inspirational views as you tackle one of the two day walks home to over 230 species of birds, tropical plants and native that start from Wallaman Falls and trek down the wildlife. Extensive walking tracks allow visitors to explore the Valley, on the Wallaman Falls section of The Great Walk. park at their own pace. Enjoy the lagoons as you walk along the boardwalk linking the TYTO Information and Wetlands Ingham is the closest mainland connection to Hinchinbrook Centre to TYTO and TYTO Regional Gallery. The precinct offers Island with the neighbouring channel a protected environment waterfront dining, a historical cane display and a bird’s eye view for the dugong. The Hinchinbrook Channel is a picturesque of the area by climbing the 11m observation tower. setting that offers some of the region’s best fishing.

Indigenous

The Hinchinbrook region also encompasses the traditional country of the Nywaigi, and Bandjin Aboriginal people. Visit Mungalla Station, near Forrest Beach, to hear stories about the Indigenous and European history of the area. Discover The Burdekin

Mayor Lyn McLaughlin recommends... • Boutique shopping • Enjoying the wide variety of community • Dining on quality produce at one of our many events throughout the year eateries • Fishing in one of the many waterways

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 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 laid back lifestyle.

Sugar

As producer of the biggest and sweetest sugar cane in the country, the Burdekin is also one of the only cane growing regions left in Australia where cane is burnt before harvesting. These magnificent cane fires light up the skies every evening between June and December and have become a tourist attraction in their own right.

Fishing

Fantastic fishing is on offer in the estuaries and waterways of the fertile Burdekin Delta. Fishing tours are available to catch barramundi, mud crabs, prawns, mangrove jack and more.

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The Burdekin River Bridge, which links Ayr and Home Hill, is the district’s best known landmark. Known as the Silver Link, the 1,103m crossing is the only bridge in Australia built without a solid footing and is longer than the Sydney Harbour Bridge. An Engineering Heritage National Landmark Award was unveiled on the southern side of the Bridge in 2010.

The S.S. Yongala shipwreck lies just off the coast of Ayr and is ranked one of the top 10 dive sites in the world. This is a must do for experienced divers. Yongala Dive, based at Alva Beach, is the fastest way to get to the site and discover the magnificent marine life that calls the wreck home.

Wetlands

The Burdekin’s magnificent wetlands are home to an amazing array of bird life, some of which are unique to the area. Bird watchers shouldn’t miss the chance to visit Plantation Park or Horseshoe Lagoon. Discover Charters Towers

Mayor Liz Schmidt recommends... • Strolling the streets and taking in the • Bunkers WW2 display on Towers Hill heritage feel of the town • Venus Battery • Picnic at Weir Park • Shopping and also Eating at any of the • Day trip to Ravenswood many fine food outlets

Take a step back in time and explore the unique history Ravenswood and heritage of the gold rush towns of Charters Towers and Ravenswood. A short 40km detour off the Flinders Highway, en-route to Charters Towers, you will find historic Ravenswood. Charters Towers Formerly settled for gold mining, this unique heritage listed Driving through the streets of Charters Towers is like viewing a town looks like a movie set with its beautiful old buildings, living montage of Australian history and heritage. Gold was first mullock heaps and chimney stacks. The Court House Museum, discovered in Charters Towers in 1871 by Aboriginal horse boy, the restored School House, Thorp’s Building and Butler’s Jupiter Mosman. Thousands flocked from across the globe in a Cottage are just some of the treasures visitors can discover. mad rush to the town, once the second largest in Queensland. The town was believed to have everything a civilised person Take a self-guided walk to visit them all or climb to the top of could want and soon became known as ‘The World’. the local lookout to view the amazing open-cut mine – a great place to take a photo. Travel just 5km out of town to White Blow The magnificent heritage buildings are testament to the Conservation Park to admire the unusual geological formation prosperity of the era. The heritage listed Stock Exchange of a unique white quartz outcrop dating back 300 million years. Arcade, World Theatre, City Hall and Post Office Tower will have you reaching for your camera. Don’t forget to visit the iconic drive-in cinema for flicks under the stars, Towers Hill lookout, Venus Gold Battery - the largest surviving battery relic in Australia – or learn to pan for gold at The Miner’s Cottage.

Today, Charters Towers is known as a rural hub for graziers and the mining industry and hosts the Southern Hemisphere’s largest cricket carnival, the Charters Towers Goldfield Ashes, each January. FREEWILDLIFE LOCAL ANDATTRACTIONS NATURE