In Townsville and Magnetic Island | March - August 2016

FREE GUIDE

M A R C H - AU G U ST 2 0 1 6 | 49

VITIES | MAPS | ACTI S N O TI C RA TT |A TION | DINING ACCOMMODA

TOWNSVILLE

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** Souvenir Ph

m Townsville ay. Pick up fro inal. rm Monday - Frid Te rry or Fe okings accommodation 240 225 for bo Phone 0422

Open every day 9.00am - 5.00pm (Closed Christmas Day)

Bruce Highway – 17km south of Townsville

Ph 07 4778 8344 | rangers@billabongsanctuary.com.au

www.billabongsanctuary.com.au

2 | March - August 2016

Photo: Chris McLennan

WELCOME TO TOWNSVILLE Throughout 2016 Townsville city will be celebrating its anniversary, marking 150 years since being declared a muncicpality.

residential growth rates in Australia. The focal point these days is the wonderful beachfront ‘Strand’.

During the year-long salute, Townsville will host a variety of community-led festivals, events, concerts, exhibitions and activities to explore our community’s rich heritage and celebrate the evolution of our vibrant and colourful culture.

Beautiful Magnetic Island is just 20 minutes from the city centre by ferry. Day cruises and diving expeditions to the Great Barrier Reef, and white water rafting excursions also depart regularly from the city.

Nowhere else in the world will you find the fascinating diversity of North Queensland. In just hours you can move from lush rainforest to the Great Barrier Reef, or from a luxurious resort on a tropical island to a cattle ranch in the golden Outback.

Townsville, Australia’s largest tropical city, is the focal point to this region which is bounded by Mission Beach to the north, Charters Towers to the west, and Bowen in the south. The resort islands - Magnetic, Orpheus, Hinchinbrook and Bedarra - are all different in character and all offer a unique experience for the holidaymaker.

Townsville’s many attractions include the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium, a wildlife sanctuary, casino, beaches, museums, theatres, galleries, nightclubs and restaurants.

Many people who come visit or short-term stay, and decide to live here. the Townsville region has

to Townsville on a like what they see Little wonder that one of the highest

There are quiet places of natural beauty, including Mt Elliot National Park, Crystal Creek and Paluma, all a short drive away.

Within the city itself don’t miss a trip up Castle Hill, or some of the magnificent and wellkept shady gardens which include Queen’s Gardens, Anderson Park, Anzac Park and the Palmetum.

Heading west the rugged outback unfolds with the historic gold rush mining towns of Charters Towers and Ravenswood - time capsules of turn-of-the-century architecture.

National Parks and World Heritage listed areas lie to the north of Townsville, with the seaside towns of Ingham, Cardwell and Mission Beach boasting rainforests, waterfalls, spectacular beaches and the sheltered waterways of the Hinchinbrook Channel.

Travelling south through the agricultural basin are the twin towns of Ayr and Home Hill.

Bowen completes the southern boundary of this region which also features superb reefs, beaches and excellent fishing spots. intownsville.com.au | 3

CONTENTS

© Tourism Queensland

Rock Pool, The Strand

INFORMATION CENTRES DINING OUT IN TOWNSVILLE TOWNSVILLE LOOKOUTS SHOPPING PUBS & BARS GREAT OUTDOORS / CARAVAN PARKS STRAND WHAT’S ON PARKS AND GARDENS MUSEUMS ART GALLERIES MAGNETIC ISLAND BURDEKIN SHIRE (SOUTH) PALUMA (NORTH) BALGAL BEACH & ROLLINGSTONE (NORTH) HINCHINBROOK SHIRE (NORTH) CHARTERS TOWERS (WEST) OVERLANDER’S WAY (WEST) HUGHENDEN & JULIA CREEK MATILDA HIGHWAY (WEST)

11 12 20 22 26 28 34 47 50 51 52 56 68 69 70 72 74 75 76 77

MAPS TOWN COMMON WALKS MAP TOWNSVILLE SURROUNDS MAP TOWNSVILLE CITY MAP TOWNSVILLE SUBURB MAP MAGNETIC ISLAND MAP

24 32 42 40 54

TIMETABLES FANTASEA TIMETABLE SEALINK TIMETABLE

60 60

PHONE NUMBERS TAXI SUNBUS EMERGENCY

131 008 4771 9800 000

Cover Photos: Top: Alma Bay, Magnetic Island. Bottom left: Pilots from 2OCU are looking forward to the highly-anticipated Defence Force Air Show on 15 October. (Image courtesy of the Townsville Bulletin)

North Australian Publishing Co Pty Ltd. ACN 050418865 440 Flinders Street, Townsville Qld 4810 | PO Box 1264, Townsville Qld 4810 Advertising | Warren Gardner Design & Layout | seventy9design Phone 07 4772 3244 Fax 07 4772 3250 Email info@intownsville.com.au Web www.intownsville.com.au In Townsville & Magnetic Island is published by North Australian Publishing Co Pty. Ltd. and produced every 6 months for the promotion of Townsville and regions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the company. The publisher accepts no responsibility for any of the contents herein.

4 | March - August 2016

cks Restaurant, located ◆ Award winning Lavara dinner Tuesday on the first floor, open for ay Frid on ch lun Saturday and qui a ck bite to eat ◆ Garrisons Eatery, grab perfect place for a the , oor fl on the ground other delicious treats of parmie, pizza or plenty y dinner at their own ◆ Mum and Dad can enjo ised kids room, pace with our fully superv ay, 5pm - 10pm urd Sat to y sda open Wedne

hold a function? ◆ Looking for a venue to thing, we do it all at any , Weddings, parties L RS ille nsv the Tow e live music on Friday ◆ Relax and listen to som - midnight and Saturday nights 8pm action on the biggest ◆ Watch all the sporting x 2.5m in our TV in Queensland, 4.5m Bar Spectators Sports

see all to check out the menus or Visit townsvillersl.com.au

the latest information

intownsville.com.au | 5

MORE THAN JUST A TOUR

A journey of discovery

CINEMAS

BCC CINEMAS TOWNSVILLE CENTRAL 10 Little Fletcher St, Townsville City MOVIE INFOLINE 4431 1500 EVENT CINEMAS TOWNSVILLE CBD Cnr Sturt & Blackwood Streets, City MOVIE INFOLINE 4771 4101

Discover the depth of our city’s military history and experience its most iconic sights. With a unique and surprising viewing of Townsville, you will be inspired by the stories of our heritage and immersed in our journey.

We look forward to meeting you!

HALF OR FULL DAY TOURS AVAILABLE • Morning military tours & afternoon scenic tours • Tours run daily (except Monday & Saturday)

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION VISIT: militarytours.com.au BOOKINGS: 0408 555 887

6 | March - August 2016

READING CINEMAS Cannon Park, Kirwan MOVIE INFOLINE 4723 6666 WARRINA CINEPLEX Dalrymple Road, Currajong MOVIE INFOLINE 4779 8568

intownsville.com.au | 7

Visit Reef HQ Aquarium’s Turtle Hospital where sick and injured turtles are cared for and rehabilitated.

Join in ur on one of oe iv D Daily g and Feedin Shows.

2-68 Flinders Street Townsville, 4810 Tel: 4750 0800 www.reefhq.com.au

TURTLE HOSPITAL

Join Reef HQ Aquarium’s Turtle Talk, departing daily at 12noon and 3.30pm. The Reef HQ Aquarium Turtle Hospital is designed to rehabilitate sick and injured turtles so they can be released back into the ocean, enhancing their long term survival and sustainability as a threatened species.

As the National Educational Centre for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, Reef HQ Aquarium plays a lead role in inspiring visitors, through educational talks and guided tours. Six of the world’s seven species of marine turtle are found on the Great Barrier Reef and everyone can play a very special role in looking after them. Reef HQ Aquarium is a not-for-profit organisation, donations to the Turtle Hospital are welcome via our website www.reefhq.com.au or in person when you visit the aquarium.

Anyone who finds a stranded turtle is urged to contact the hotline on 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625).

DISCOVER TROPICAL QUEENSLAND The award-winning Museum of Tropical Queensland is a showcase of this amazing region. The iconic building located in the Flinders Street tourism precinct houses exhibits that range from the rainforest to the reef, and back in time to the ancient inland seas of the age of dinosaurs.

The centrepiece of the museum is the HMS Pandora display, which tells one of the great tales of maritime adventure, when the ship sent to capture the mutineers from the Bounty ran aground off the Great Barrier Reef in 1791. Throughout the year the museum hosts an ever-changing program of visiting displays, talks, activities and holiday programs.

The Discover Tropical Queensland gallery features fascinating natural history specimens, fossils and minerals, corals and sea creatures, and the spectacular Enchanted Rainforest exhibition.

Present this page to receive a

10% DISCOUNT

on full priced admission at MTQ for up to 5 people.

(Valid until 30/9/2016)

10 | March - August 2016

INFORMATION CENTRES TOWNSVILLE BULLETIN SQUARE INFORMATION CENTRE Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat-Sun 9am-1pm Phone: 4721 3660 | www.townsvilleholidays.info

NORTH

SOUTH

BURDEKIN VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Plantation Park, Ayr. Open: Mon-Sun 9am-4pm.

Phone: 4783 5988 www.burdekintourism.com.au

TYTO INFORMATION AND WETLANDS CENTRE Corner Bruce Highway and Cooper St, Ingham Open: Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat-Sun 9am - 4pm Phone: 4776 4792 | www.tyto.com.au

BURDEKIN GATEWAY INFORMATION CENTRE Old Home Hill Railway Station, 12 Railway Ave Open: Mon-Sun 9am-4pm.

Phone: 4782 8241 www.burdekintourism.com.au

RAINFOREST & REEF INFORMATION CENTRE Cardwell.

Open: Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm.

Sat-Sun 9am-3pm (April-October) Sat-Sun 9am-1pm (Nov-March) Phone: 4066 8601 www.greatgreenwaytourism.com

WEST

TULLY VISITOR & HERITAGE CENTRE Open: Mon-Fri 8.30am-4.45pm, Sat-Sun 9.30am-4.30pm Phone: 4068 2288 www.ccrc.qld.gov.au MISSION BEACH VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Porter Promenade, Mission Beach Open: Mon-Sun 9am-5pm Phone: 4068 7099 | www.missionbeachtourism.com

CHARTERS TOWERS VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Open: Mon-Sun 9am-5pm Phone: 4761 5533 www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au ‘AT THE CREEK’ JULIA CREEK VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Open: Mon-Fri 9.00am - 5.00pm (Oct - Mar) Mon - Fri 9am-5pm, Sat & Sun 9am-12noon (April - Sept) Phone: 4746 7690 | www.atthecreek.com.au\ WINTON VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Phone: 1300 665 115 | www.experiencewinton.com.au

intownsville.com.au | 11

DINING OUT DINING OUT IN TOWNSVILLE

Townsville’s dining diversity makes heading out for dinner an exciting venture. From the thoughtfully restored heritage restaurants, to the ambience of al fresco cafes, Townsville boasts four major dining precincts, each offering its own distinct experience.

PALMER STREET Located on the city’s south bank, Palmer Street captures the essence of international cuisine. Boasting award-winning restaurants for breakfast, lunch or dinner, Palmer Street offers mouth-watering flavours guaranteed to tantalise your taste buds. Whether you desire indian, Asian, Italian, Greek, French, Mexican, modern Australian or locally caught seafood, this strip is Townsville’s premium eat street. The central location offers proximity to public transport, the city’s vibrant nightlife hub and gorgeous views across Ross Marina.

GREGORY STREET The Gregory Street precinct near The Strand has a cosmopolitan village atmosphere. With exclusive boutique shopping and open-air cafe dining, it is the perfect stop for lunch, coffee or cake after a long day shopping.

FLINDERS STREET EAST Parallel to Palmer Street is Flinders Street East, which boasts an eclectic mix of restaurants, nightclubs, pubs and wine bars. The strip is not only the nightlife precinct of the city, it’s an emerging hot spot for diners to meet for an evening out. Flinders Street East is a flurry of lively atmosphere and night-time activity with cocktails and tapas enjoyed until late.

CANNON PARK Located a short distance from the Riverway precinct, Cannon Park offers diners a range of cuisine and a social atmosphere. You can catch a live show at Riverway, see a movie at the cinemas or have a pint at the local Irish pub. There are plenty of delicious choices around town - just follow your nose to discover them yourself.

JOIN US

ON THE DECK AT THE TOWNSVILLE YACHT CLUB Waterfront dining 7 days a week for lunch & dinner and breakfast on weekends.

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and uninterrupted views the venue has to offer.

p. (07) 4772 1192 1 Plume Street Townsville QLD 4810

WWW.TOWNSVILLEYACHTCLUB.COM.AU 12 | March - August 2016

RAMBUTAN - TOWNSVILLE’S NEWEST HOTSPOT

Rambutan is the latest inception of traveller’s delights offering stylish and modern accommodation as well as a savvy on-site restaurant and bar for locals and guests to enjoy. Luring in the East Coast’s adventurous traveller market, seeking somewhere nice to stay without the hefty price tag, the resort offers a dynamic range of accommodation options from modern dorms to trendy hotel style rooms. Rambutan even caters to the traveller on the go, with our practical camper van sites that allow access to power and the rest of the hostel’s many facilities.

Celebrity Head Chef Wylie Dean has created a menu that’s lavish in taste, yet humble in cost inspired by a Southern American BBQ theme that centralises upon

slow cooked meats from an imported pit smoker. With a buzzing social atmosphere, Rambutan offers guests the ideal venue to host their next function, whether it be a casual dining experience in our poolside cabanas, or a stand up cocktail function on our visually engaging balcony area. Expect to turn up, sit by the poolside, allow your mind to transcend into holiday mode and enjoy yourself some ridiculously delicious food.

113-119 Flinders Street, Townsville 4771 6915 | rambutantownsville.com.au

OPEN 7 DAYS 12PM - LATE

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14 | March - August 2016

intownsville.com.au | 15

2

$

From

PER HOUR

Internet & Skype

NBN – NATIONAL BROADBAND NETWORK

Play Computer Gam

UNLIMITED DOWNLOADS & UPLOADS*

es

Up to 100 mbps download & 25 mbps upload speeds • 22” Web camera LCD screens • Wireless hotspot connection for PC/Windows, Apple/Mac & iPhone/iPad • Play Computer Games with super fast connections • Laptop access connection • Digital camera memory card readers • USB connection • Microphone headsets • Microsoft Office - Word Processing, Spreadsheet and Publisher • Printing, Scanning & DVD Burner facilities • Cash, Visa, Mastercard, American Express & Diners Cards accepted • Access Codes are multi-use and valid for 60 days

High Speed Scanne

r

OPEN 7 DAYS

FLINDERS ST

324 Flinders Street, Townsville City Phone (07) 4721 5444 • Email info@internetonflinders.com.au

Ground Floor, Holiday Inn Hotel *Internet speeds may be subject to variation and downloads may be limited at certain times.

www.internetonflinders.com.au

STANLEY ANLEY ST

OGDEN ST

STOKES OKES ST

DENHAM ST

6.00am to 11.00pm

DIVE THE YONGALA WRECK & GREAT BARRIER REEF Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive is Townsville’s longest established dive training and marine tourism operator. We specialise in providing snorkelling and diving Day Trips and Liveaboards as well as training of divers as part of a full dive service. Join us today and dive the spectacular SS Yongala or snorkel and dive the Great Barrier Reef The Yongala wreck and Great Barrier Reef are the diving drawcards. The north Queensland city of Townsville offers the ultimate of dive experiences, great value accommodation and a year-round summer climate to round off the perfect diving stopover.

The Yongala wreck, located about 80km east of the city, is Australia’s best dive site and one of the world’s top 10 wreck dives. Undiscovered for over 30 years, the coral-encrusted structure attracts a prolific variety of colourful marine life and is an unforgettable dive for both novice and experienced divers. The day trip to the Yongala wreck includes a three hour boat cruise past

Magnetic Island, historic lighthouse and the bird colonies of Cape Bowling Green.

The centred section of the Great Barrier Reef, including Wheeler Reef and Lodestone Reef are great examples of healthy reefs with good coral cover and teeming fish life.

There are spectacular displays of tropical marine life and coral structures for divers to explore as they swim among giant clams, turtles and reef sharks on this truly magical reef.

Magnetic Island is another popular diving destination easily accessible from Townsville.

The World Heritage listed Reef is host to the most diverse collection of life forms found in one location anywhere in the world and Townsville is a great place to access it.

Whether it is day trips to view the spectacular snorkelling, specialist scuba dives or environmental expeditions, it’s all available on Townsville’s doorstep.

intownsville.com.au | 17

JEZZINE BARRACKS AND KISSING POINT

ACCOMMODATION NEED A BED?

Townsville • Magnetic Island Where’s the accommodation in Townsville and Magnetic Island?

Ask the PROFESSIONALS. We are the major booking agent in Flinders Square.

Nightly. Weekly. Corporate.

PLUS TOURS!

• Reef Cruises • Magnetic Island Tours • Dive Courses • Rainforest Tours • Townsville Day Tours

Let us make the calls!

Flinders Square, Townsville

Phone: 4772 5800

www.tropicaltravel.com.au info@tropicaltravel.com.au

18 | March - August 2016

The Jezzine Barracks / Kissing Point / Garabarra redevelopment has been a $40 million partnership between Townsville City Council, the Queensland Government and the Australian Government.

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. Large-scale landscaping works have also opened up the area for public use.

Public Artworks The heritage precinct at Kissing Point is home to 33 public artworks created by 13 Aboriginal and 11 nonAboriginal artists from Townsville, North Queensland and Queensland.

All the works have been created in response to this unique site, with some artists considering the military history of the headland and others considering the significance of the area for Aboriginal people. Some of the works address the meeting and reconciliation of Aboriginal, non-Aboriginal and military groups.

Twenty of the installations are inspired by traditional Aboriginal elders stories, depicted in intimate drawings produced by the Aboriginal artists. These artists worked in collaboration with installation artists to develop their images and concepts into engaging public sculptures located in the ethno-botanical area in the northwestern corner of the precinct.

Eight of the works address the military history of the site and the important role the Kennedy Regiment has played in various theatres of war over time. These can

be found at the Mitchell Street entry and when heading up to Kissing Point Fort.

Along Jezzine Way 51 brass plaques detail the significant events that have shaped Townsville and Jezzine Barracks. A pictorial history is presented in the etched brass and mosaic discs and the devastating cyclones affecting this area of North Queensland are depicted in the lights with stone surround, also embedded in the path.

The featured artists are: Bernadette Boscacci, Antone Bruinsma, Russell Butler (Aboriginal), Jill Chism, Shirley Collins (Aboriginal), Billy Doolan (Aboriginal), Karen Doolan (Aboriginal), Amanda Feher, Jeremy George (Aboriginal), Rurik Henry, Thomas Illin (Aboriginal), Tracey Johnson, Carly Kotynski, Gavin Kum Sing (Aboriginal), Barry Lampton (Aboriginal), Kelvin Lampton (Aboriginal), Jenny Mulcahy, Stephen Newton, Susan Peters (Aboriginal), Donna Maree Robinson, Alfred Smallwood (Aboriginal), Claudia Williams, Jordan Wyles (Aboriginal), and Virginia Wyles (Aboriginal).

Facilities The redeveloped Jezzine Barracks precinct provides a range of facilities throughout for public use and enjoyment.

• Parking • Toilets including disabled facilities • Wheelchair access (limited access to some areas) • Picnic Shelters • Barbeque Area • Observation Deck • Coastal walkway from The Strand to Rowes Bay

intownsville.com.au | 19

TOWNSVILLE LOOKOUTS

E HILL

CASTL

MOUNT STUART

20 | March - August 2016

CASTLE HILL Where: Access via Stanley Street, North Ward.

Castle Hill is a red rock monolith in the heart of Townsville offering panoramic views, and a slice of military history.

There is a popular walking track for fitness focused locals, with a rocky ‘goat track’ a favourite for shedding those unwanted kilos. A road offers access for vehicles and pedestrians. The hill is just metres short of being classified as a mountain.

The rock face is home to Townsville’s iconic ‘saint’ - a graffiti rendition of the popular television show’s stick figure emblem. 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, which also boasts public amenities, a function centre and car parking to those wanting to enjoy the best view of Magnetic Island.

JEZZINE BARRACKS / KISSING POINT Where: North End of The Strand near the Rock Pool.

Despite its romantic name, Kissing Point was probably named after a feature in Sydney Harbour.

The area has long associated with the military and social history of Townsville. Kissing Point Fort, on the point, was designed by Major Edward Druitt of the Royal Engineers. Completed in 1891 to defend the harbour from the threat of foreign attack (at that time by the Russians). It was manned by One Battery Garrison and the Kennedy Regiment, composed mainly of volunteers.

They held annual encampments at Norman Park, the area behind the point, now known as Jezzine Barracks / Army Museum North Queensland.

During World War II Kissing Point was the headquarters of the 265th Australian Infantry Battalion, and landing ship tanks used the beach near the point to embark and disembark men and supplies.

Kissing Point also has a long association with recreation.

In the first decades of the 20th century, the city’s first golf course stretched from Eyre Street to Warburton Street and occupied part of Jezzine Barracks.

MOUNT STUART Where: Access via Tarakan St off the Flinders Highway At the top of Mt Stuart is a first class viewing platform with panoramic views of Townsville City and the surrounding Tropical Savanna and Coast. In the distance you can see Magnetic Island and the Great Barrier Reef World Hertiage Area. Looking up the coast you can see the Coastal Ranges of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. There is a short 20 minute walk around the summit with interpretative signage and spectacular views. The Mt Stuart summit is a 25 minute drive from the Townsville CBD. PIPER’S LOOKOUT Travel up Hervey Range Road, past the suburbs of Rangewood and Rupertswood to find Piper’s Lookout which is near the top of the Range, on your right. Piper’s Lookout offers stunning views over the bushland below Hervey Range and out to the ocean.

TOWNSVILLE’S TROPICAL GETAWAY

• 3 Acres of Lush Tropical Gardens • 3km from the city • Stroll to Strand Beach • 2 Swimming Pools • Hotel Rooms • Fully Self Contained Apartments • Luxury Spa Suites • Restaurant and Bar • Wireless Internet • Guest Laundry • Children’s Playground & BBQ Area • Free AUSTAR & DVDs

*Free bottle of house wine when you mention this advertisement when booking direct with the Resort 4721 3111. One bottle per stay. Not valid in conjunction with any other special offer.

74 The Esplanade, Belgian Gardens | Ph 07 4721 3111 | Fax 07 4721 3133 www.seagulls.com.au | resort@seagulls.com.au intownsville.com.au | 21

SHOPPING Shopping is a popular past time. Three major shopping centres - Willows, Castletown and Stockland - offer shoppers a wide range of stores in airconditioned comfort.

Domain Central on Duckworth Street is an outdoor shopping experience and has much on offer, from fashion to homewares, even a fitness centre.

Being only five minutes from the city centre makes Castletown Shoppingworld a handy place to stop and shop, and offers more than eighty stores.

Flinders Street in the city heart has shops and attractions that are housed in restored historic buildings dating back to the region’s European settlement in the late 19th century.

Be sure to check out the little arcades in Flinders Street for a unique shopping experience.

Stockland is Townsville’s largest shopping centre and home to Myer. Centro is across the road and both are located in Aitkenvale on Ross River Road close to the hospital and central suburbs.

The Willows Shopping Centre is a very spacious centre with much on offer, with Sunland Plaza and Cannon Park over the road, host to a Cinema and many restaurants and shops.

Batik Bazaar (located opposite the Brewery on the Flinders Street) has a large collection of sarongs, dresses and beautiful island wear that is pure North Queensland style.

IT’S ALL AT

BATIK BAZAAR

265 Flinders Street, The City Phone 4772 4910 22 | March - August 2016

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TOWN COMMON

Shelly Beach

Shelly Beach Circuit Track

WALKS MAP

Freshwater Lagoon Birdhide

P

Jacana Birdhide

Wetlands Trail

P

Bald Rock Birdhide EWAY

CAUS

Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park

Tegoora Rock Lookout

Mount Marlow Lookout Bohle River

Cape Pallarenda

RAAF Radar Station

Many Peaks Range

Pallarenda

RD

NORTH

Little Snaggy Creek

P C AP E PA LLA

D

NR

Forest Walk

P

RD DA REN

OO

Wildfire Viewing Point

LAG

Walking tracks include short easy walks and challenging longer hikes.

Fitness levels should be considered before undertaking extended walks.

Please note that that some tracks become flooded or over-grown during the wet season (December - April).

Cleveland Bay

R ATE HW

Wildfire Viewing Point

S FRE

Snaggy Creek

Observation Tower

P 1km

0

2km

TOWN COMMON CONSERVATION PARK Townsville Town Common Conservation Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Only minutes from the centre of Townsville - open woodland, grassland, swamps and vine thickets provide a habitat and refuge for as many as 280 bird species. Summer rains transform the area into an immense wetland, attracting large flocks of waterbirds. From bird hides, view flocks of magpie geese, brolgas, finches, wrens and cisticolas. Take the Many Peaks Range walking track to see sweeping views over the park and along the coastline, from Palm Island in the north to Cape Cleveland in the south.

GETTING THERE

Townsville Town Common Conservation Park is 6km north of the Townsville city centre. The park entrance is reached by turning off Cape Pallarenda Road towards the Rowes Bay Golf Club. The gate is open from 6.30am to 6.30pm daily. There is an information shelter at the entrance to the park.

ESSENTIALS TO BRING

Preparation is the key to a safe and enjoyable visit.

Make sure you bring: • Enough drinking water for your visit • Appropriate clothing, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses • Insect repellent to avoid mosquitoes and sandflies • Rubbish bags, as there are no bins.

24 | March - August 2016

RAAF BASE

P

To Townsville City

FOREST WALK (1.9KM RETURN - 1hr return) Easy This walk, near the Barramundi waterhole, follows the edge of the billabong, which is fringed with melaleucas, eucalyptus and acacias. it is a good area for viewing honeyeaters, kingfishers and other forest birds.

BALD ROCK CARPARK to MOUNT MARLOW (2.5KM ONE WAY) Moderate From Bald Rock carpark ascend along the ridge tops of Many Peaks Range to the grassy summit of Mount Marlow. The lookout has inspiring 360 views of the park, Townsville, Magnetic Island and the Coral Sea. BALD ROCK CARPARK to PALLARENDA (4.5KM ONE WAY - 4-5hrs one way) Difficult (above average fitness req.)

This track continues from Mount Marlow, weaving through open woodland and pockets of vine-thicket to the park at the end of Cape Pallarenda Road. The section of track between Mount Marlow and Tegoora Rock is not well-defined in places and care should be taken to keep to the track.

PALLARENDA to TEGOORA ROCK (2KM - 1hr return) Moderate This track begins opposite the park at the end of Cape Pallarenda Road. Walk through shady vine-thicket to the lookout at Tegoora Rock. View the wetlands from above and appreciate the full extent of the Town Common.

SHELLY BEACH CIRCUIT TRACK (9KM RETURN - 4-5hrs) Moderate Follow the signs from Bald Rock Carpark to the Shelly Beach circuit track. Walk through flat country between the ranges, taking in scenic wetlands, to a series of isolated beaches.

HEAD FOR THE HILLS, TASTE THE HISTORY PHONE 07 4778 0199 6 Thornton’s Gap Rd, Hervey Range www.heritagetearooms.com.au OPEN DAILY 9am - 4pm The perfect getaway 25 minutes from Willows Shoppingtown. 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.

It remains one of only a few slab sided inns left standing in Australia. Once a welcome site to weary travellers and their horse and bullock teams en route to the gold fields, the tea rooms now offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy delicious food and great tea and coffee within the heritage listed building or in the peaceful garden surrounds. The walking track takes visitors through native bushland to the top of the dis-used Greenvale railway line tunnel entrance.

JUST A FEW REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT • Scenic range drive with views of Townsville & surrounds.

• Great expresso coffee, including Kopi Luwak ($50 per cup) • All day breakfast, light lunches, sweets and scones. Licensed premises.

• Gift shop stocked with local craft • North Queensland’s oldest split log construction building, built 1865.

• Spacious gardens and walking track.

• Weddings and functions venue.

• High Tea (bookings essential) • Up to 5’ cooler all year round

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PUBS, CLUBS & BARS AUSTRALIAN HOTEL 11 Palmer Street 07 4722 6999

CASA LOUNGE BAR 145 Flinders St East 07 4771 2173

FLYNN’S IRISH BAR Flinders St East 07 4721 1655

BANK NITECLUB 410 Flinders St East 07 4721 3332

COMMONWEALTH HOTEL 46 Allen St 07 4771 4215

GREAT NORTHERN 500 Flinders St West 07 4771 6191

BELLEVUE HOTEL 17 Allen St 07 4772 4265

COWBOYS LEAGUES CLUB 335 Flinders St 07 4724 5888

BOHLE BARN Cnr Shaw Rd & Bruce Hwy, Bohle 07 4774 6322 BULLYS 108 Flinders St East 07 4771 5647 CACTUS JACKS SALOON Flinders St East 07 4721 5705

CRITERION TAVERN 10 The Strand 07 4721 5777 DALRYMPLE HOTEL 310 Bayswater Drv, Garbutt 07 4779 6344 EXCHANGE HOTEL 151 Flinders St East 07 4771 3335

SANTA FE GOLD 108 Flinders St East

HERBERT HOTEL 102 Sturt St 07 4771 2641

SEAVIEW HOTEL 56 The Strand 07 4771 5005

HERITAGE BAR 137 Flinders St East 07 4771 2799

SHAMROCK HOTEL 31 Palmer St 07 4771 4351

HERMIT PARK HOTEL 100 Charters Towers Rd 07 4721 4143

SOVEREIGN HOTEL 807 Flinders St West 07 4771 2909

HOTEL ALLEN Gregory Street 07 4771 5656 IRISH FINNEGANS Cannon Park Centre, Kirwan 07 4723 7777 JUPITERS HOTEL & CASINO Sir Leslie Theiss Dr 07 4722 2333 KIRWAN TAVERN 154 Thuringowa Drv, Kirwan. 07 4773 3366 MAD COW TAVERN 129 Flinders St East 07 4771 5727 MOLLY MALONES Flinders St East 07 4771 3428 MONSOONS 194 Flinders St East 07 4772 0900 NEWMARKET HOTEL 499 Flinders St West 07 4721 1377 RAMBUTAN TOWNSVILLE 113 – 119 Flinders St East 07 4771 6915 ROSS ISLAND HOTEL 99 Boundary St, Railway Estate 07 4771 4475

26 | March - August 2016

ROYAL HOTEL 56 Stagpole St, West End 07 4771 2549

THE AVENUES HOTEL 270 Kern Brothers Drv, Kirwan 07 4723 8000 THE BREWERY 252 Flinders St 07 4724 2999 THE CENTENARY HOTEL 35 French St, Pimlico 07 4779 2575 THE SUN HOTEL 6 Ross River Rd, Mundingburra 07 4779 5233 TOM’S TAVERN Nathan St, Aitkenvale 07 4772 9777 TOWNSVILLE RSL 139 Charters Towers Rd 07 4759 9500 VALE HOTEL 222 Ross River Rd, Aitkenvale 07 4779 0100 VICTORIA PARK HOTEL 266 Boundary St 07 4772 6687 WATERMARK 72 The Strand 07 4724 4281 WEST END HOTEL 89 Ingham Rd 07 4771 2872

TOWNSVILLE SCENIC & MILITARY TOURS

Townsville Scenic and Military Tours; was founded in 2013 by owner Toby Dean who had served for 26 years in the Australian Regular Army and decided to call Townsville his home and the place to raise his young family.

The idea was always with me to run my own tour business. We decided to base the tours around Townsville’s Military history; it was a topic I understood.

I wanted the tours to have a different approach and for our visitors to leave having considered the human aspect of conflict. The tours have an antiwar message that honours the people who made our country’s history. It was also important to tell the human stories behind the photos. From this concept, followed two years of research and development that culminated in what I hope is a great tour experience that is unique to Townsville.

The city is the custodian of so many extraordinary stories from our past. Our Military Tours blend history, culture and scenery into a single informative and entertaining package, the tours showcase an in-depth look at this military influence with various defence sites, museums, memorials, monuments, barracks and more all featured on the itinerary. After our military tour was established our scenic tour followed 12 months later when we realised that Townsville needed a quality shorter duration tour that would cover the

general history of Townsville and its best iconic sights.

So we designed this tour to be a red carpet welcome to our beautiful city. We designed the City History and Iconic Sights Tour around 3 main points. We wanted our guests to leave the tour having seen the city but also learning about its past, present and future and we do that in 2.5 hours.

Townsville is a vibrant and interesting city with a unique history. It is the largest city in North Queensland and its topography makes it a pretty location in so many ways. Townsville’s Castle Hill & Mount Stuart makes for a spectacular back drop to the city. We can almost guarantee you a picture perfect blue sky with 300+ days of sunshine every year.

Townsville has supported Australia’s Defence both in war and peace for over 130 years. Today Townsville is home to Australia’s 3rd Brigade; the country’s largest Army Barracks. During the Second World War, Townsville had the largest airbase in the country. As a location and operating base it played an important role during those early dark and desperate years of WW2. So next time you wish to escape those winter blues, come and discover Townsville and its history. It’s more than a tour; it is a journey of Discovery. militarytours.com.au BOOKINGS: 0408 555 887

intownsville.com.au | 27

GREAT OUTDOORS CARAVAN PARKS & CAMP GROUNDS

Wallaman Falls Caravaning has become one of the most popular means of travel, whether it be up the coast for a holiday or travelling around Australia, you are likely to meet many travellers who are doing just that. Most caravan parks not only have the beautifully manicured shady sites, some with their own ensuites, but they have motel standard villas and cabins. If you are roughing it, grassed and shady tent sites are available along with well maintained camp and washing up facilities with tables and seats.

Townsville has many caravan parks to offer.

Depending on your time available and how far you are travelling each day, there is a park for you. Don’t forget if you are travelling in the summer months it is important to have access to a pool, especially for the kids. So check out these great holiday and caravan parks guaranteed to make your stay in Townsville an enjoyable one.

CAMPING

BOWLING GREEN BAY NATIONAL PARK Campgrounds: Alligator Creek 25km south of Townsville; Cape Cleveland 33km south of Townsville; Bowling Green Bay 64km south of Townsville and 26km north of Ayr. Rugged mountains rise abruptly from the wetlands, saltpans and mangrove forests of the coastal plain. Alligator Creek descends in a series of cascades, deep pools and waterfalls.

MOUNT SPEC, PALUMA RANGE NATIONAL PARK Campground: 71km north of Townsville and 46km south of Ingham.

Rising high above the coastal plains, cloaked in ay tropical rainforest and dissected by numerous Railw streams, HotelMount Spec is the southernmost national park section in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

JOURAMA FALLS, PALUMA RANGE NATIONAL PARK Campground: 91km north of Townsville or 24km south of Ingham, via the Bruce Highway.

Fringed by rainforest, 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.

For more information: www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/index.php

28 | March - August 2016

Paluma

Hughenden

intownsville.com.au | 29

Burdekin Bridge

Railway Hotel

30 | March - August 2016

Tourism Queensland

Hinchinbrook

41420 Bruce Highway, Yabulu, Q 4818 07 4778 6118 | bluewatercaravan@bigpond.com

bluewatercaravanpark.com.au

intownsville.com.au | 31

Ravenshoe

To CAIRNS & Kuranda

INNISFAIL

Australian Sugar Industry Museum

Tully Falls

Etty Bay Mourilyan Harbour

A1

Paronella Park

Cowley Beach

Silkwood

Kurrimine Beach

MISSION BEACH

TULLY

South Mission Beach

Silky Oak

Dunk Island Tully Heads

Murray Falls State Forest

Bedarra Island

Rockingham Bay

Goold Island National Park

CARDWELL Girringun National Park

A1 Hinchinbrook Island

Abergowrie

Wallaman Falls

Long Pocket

Hinchinbrook Lucinda Beach

Trebonne

Halifax

INGHAM

Upper Stone

Taylors Beach

Toobanna

Forrest Beach Hidden Valley

Jourama Falls

Orpheus Island

Paluma

Halifax Bay Frosty Mango

Crystal Creek Paluma Range National Park

Balgal Beach

Rollingstone

Bluewater

Toolakea Saunders Beach

A1

Swimming Lookout

Great Palm Island

Palm Islands

Paluma Dam

ARRIER REEF GREAT B

Japoonvale

Bushland Beach

Black River Caravan Park

Camping Hiking Boat Ramp Accredited Information Centre Information

Magnetic Island

TOWNSVILLE

Lake Ross

A1

Bowling Green Bay National Park Alligator Creek

A6

Bowling Green Bay National Park

Cungulla

AYR Burdekin Home Hill

A1

Cape Upstart National Park

To BOWEN

To HUGHENDEN, RICHMOND, JULIA CREEK & CLONCURRY

CHARTERS TOWERS

32 | March - August 2016

Ravenswood

TOWNSVILLE

SURROUNDS MAP

Danger >> Marine Stingers danger >> marine stingers Marine Stingers are present on the beaches of Townsville and Magnetic Island year round. They are most likely to be encountered between the months of October and May. The stings of the Chironex (box jellyfish) and the Irukandji can be life threatening.

sting prevention >> Only swim in stinger nets during the summer months >> Always swim at patrolled beaches, between the red-and-yellow flags >> Consider wearing a full-body lycra suit to protect against marine stings

>> Look for and obey safety signs >> Don’t enter the water when beaches are closed >> Ask lifesavers for help and advice if you need it >> Don’t touch marine stingers washed up on the beach, they can still sting you.

sting treatment If stung, dial triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance. While waiting for the ambulance, pour vinegar onto the sting and administer oxygen or CPR if required.

Symptoms of Irukandji stings may take 20–40 minutes to develop—if in doubt, seek medical aid.

intownsville.com.au | 33

THE STRAND AND ROCK POOL

One of the man-made wonders in Townsville is The Strand on the beachfront. Being close to the centre of town The Strand offers a variety of activities for all ages.

There are four rock headlands that you can enjoy, with fishing, parks, childrens playgrounds, scenic walks, kiosk, restaurants, coffee shops and an awesome view worth capturing on film from Kissing Point. The Picnic Bay Surf Lifesaving Club has toilet facilities located on the Burke Street headland. An icecream shop is situated on the Landsborough St headland. You will find a restaurant and coffee shop on the Gregory Street headland. With a bar and restaurant located at the Rock Pool.

The Strand has stunning views across to Magnetic Island from the promenade, with rollerblading, jogging and biking very popular activities along the pathways. Note that courtesy rules apply on the pathway. Three swimming areas obviously feature, being the Rock pool at one end of The Strand, and the Tobruk Pool at the other, and there’s plenty of beach in between. In the summer months the beach has two purpose built stinger proof nets out (November - May is the official stinger season) providing two safe swimming areas in the sea.

Weddings are popular on The Strand and in other Townsville parklands, with the most popular months being March to October. A hire fee of $68.40 applies to parkland weddings and bookings must be made at least six weeks prior to the wedding date. Contact the Strand Office for bookings on 4727 9000.

34 | March - August 2016

THE ROCK POOL The most popular saltwater swimming destination is the Kissing Point rock pool at the extreme northern end of The Strand in North Ward. Offering a sheltered environment, the rock pool is a marvel of natural engineering. Sea water is constantly pumped into the pool, after being strained from marine life and stingers into a natural beach setting.

A special pumping system was imported from Sweden for the rockpool and it pumps water in the pool 24 hours a day. The pool, which is about 10 times the size of an Olympic pool, has the entire water volume replaced every three hours.

The Rock pool is a great spot to get wet and cool down from the summer heat. The Rock pool is closed Thursdays for maintenance. Toilet and shower facilities are available and the lawns surrounding the pool provide a great place for a picnic or barbecue and a buzz on the flying fox. Lights in the pool are turned on every night for those wanting a moonlit dip. Offering copious seating areas and parkland, with free electric barbeques, this is the perfect location to have a safe swim and a picnic during your stay.

There’s a second beach swimming enclosure half way along The Strand, and the waterpark is a favourite family outing.

EXEC DELUXE ROOM EXEC DELUXE ROOM

ALL HAVE ALLROOMS ROOMS HAVE All rooms have spectacular SPECTACULAR SPECTACULAROCEAN OCEAN VIEWS VIEWS ocean viewsTHE overlooking OVERLOOKING CORAL OVERLOOKINGTHE CORAL SEA SEA theTO coral sea toISLAND Magnetic TOMAGNETIC MAGNETIC ISLAND AND THEThe STRAND. AND THE STRAND. Island and Strand.

All rooms airconditioned, cable tv, ALL ROOMS AIRCONDITIONED, CONDITIONED, ALL ROOMS AIR FREE WIFI, CABLE limited cooking facilities, CABLETV, TV, restaurant charge back, swimming WIRELESSINTERNET INTERNETAVAILABLE, AVAILABLE, WIRELESS LIMITED COOKING FACILITES, poolCOOKING and guestFACILITES, laundry LIMITED RESTAURANTCHARGE CHARGE BACK, BACK, RESTAURANT SWIMMINGPOOL POOL SWIMMING ANDGUEST GUESTLAUNDRY LAUNDRY AND Askabout aboutour ourexec execdeluxe deluxe rooms rooms Ask for that extra bit of luxury. for that extra bit of luxury.

Ask about our exec deluxe rooms for that extra bit of luxury.

75 The Strand | Phone 4772 4255 res@aquariusonthebeach.com.au

aquariusonthebeach.com.au

intownsville.com.au | 35

10 THINGS TO DO ON THE STRAND

1 COOL OFF IN THE SEA...

Swim in the Rock Pool or stinger resistant enclosures during the November to May northern stinger season. Swim between the flags at all times.

2 COOL OFF IN THE POOL...

At the famous Tobruk Pool where many former Olympic swimming stars trained.

3 PLAY...

At the Water Park or one at the following playgrounds: Sunrise Rotary Sister Kenny Equal Access, Teenrager, Galaxy, or the Townsville Rotary playground.

4 FISH...

Off the Strand Pier, Rock Pool or beach.

5 ENJOY...

The many cafes, bars and restaurants.

6 PICNIC...

Relax with your family at a host of great spots and enjoy the fantastic views to Magnetic Island.

36 | Sept. 2015 - Feb. 2016

7 PARTICIPATE...

In the public activities and events in Strand Park. View the public artwork reflecting the significant heritage of The Strand.

8 EXPERIENCE...

Skydiving, rockwall climbing, beach volleyball, bicycle hire, yoga, coin operated binoculars and lockers.

FIT...

9 GET Enjoy walking, basketball, bike riding and ball sport activities.

YOURSELF...

10 CHALLENGE On the eight exercise points positioned

along the Strand promenade. Or sign up with Picnic Bay or Arcadian Surf Life Saving Clubs for some real action. There are also 3 outrigging clubs positioned on the Strand Townsville, Magnetic Island, and Coral Sea. The Townsville Sailing Club operates from the southern end of The Strand.

THE STRAND JETTY, TOWNSVILLE.

• Studio Apartments • Spacious 1 & 2 bedroom units • Fully Self Contained • Ducted A/C • Direct Dial Phones • Colour TV/DVD (all 2 bedrooms & most 1 bedroom have 2 TV) • All units have a Safe • Patio with Setting • Ocean Views from most Units • 100m to Beach • 300m walking distance to Restaurants, Hotels, Fast Food, BiLo and Shops • Lift to all Floors • Secure Undercover Parking • Saltwater Pool (heated in winter)

Entrance at 81 Mitchell Street, North Ward TOWNSVILLE

Phone 4729 8100 Fax: 4729 8189

www.oceanbreezebythestrand.com.au enquiries@oceanbreezebythestrand.com.au 38 | March - August 2016

on the strand (Gregory St corner)

FRESH REEF SEAFOOD WILD BARRA, REEF FILLETS SUCCULENT PLATTERS of PRAWNS, CRABS, OYSTERS MORETON BAY BUGS LEGENDARY FISH & CHIPS ATTRACTIVE DAILY SPECIALS

Our popular Breakfasts

Includes: Bacon & Eggs, Coffee & Toast for $1290 EVERYDAY

PHONE ORDERS WELCOME

4724 1322 STAY ON THE STRAND

Self Contained Studios | Ocean View Studios | One Bedroom Apartments

AMENITIES • Undercover Secured Parking • Spa • Pool • Barbeque • Sundeck • Free Wifi • Guest Laundry

waters edge 63-64 Th e Strand

P 07 4721 1777 • F 07 4721 1779 • E res@watersedgethestrand.com www.watersedgethestrand.com intownsville.com.au | 39

To Bushland Beach

MT LOW

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To CAIRNS A1 Woodlands

BR

UC

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EH

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DEERAGUN

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BAYSWATER RD

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Townsville Karting Club

WOOLCOCK ST

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Townsville Speedway

Townsville Dragway

LE

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TOWNSVILLE SUBURBS MAP 40 | Sept. 2015 - Feb. 2016

CONDON To KELSO & Ross River Dam

RIVERWAY DRIVE

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M

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L

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A6 To Mt Stuart Lookout & CHARTERS TOWERS *Map is not to scale. Main roads shown only. For a more detailed map, see the nearest Information Centre

Accommodation

Hospital

Bike Way

Library

Service Station

Railway Line

Caravan Park

Public Swimming Pool

V8 Supercar Track intownsville.com.au | 41

TOWNSVILLE

Kissing Point

CITY MAP

6 Art at Jezzine Army Museum North Queensland

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42 | Sept. 2015 - Feb. 2016

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Information Centre located in Flinders Square

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Fishing Jetty

Public Bus Terminal Taxi Rank Car Ferry Terminal/Fantasea Passenger Ferry/SeaLink Coach Terminal Jezzine Barracks/Kissing Point Lookout Water Park Anzac Park - War Memorials Reef HQ/Cultural Centre Museum of Tropical Queensland Maritime Museum Perc Tucker Gallery CityLibrary Flinders Street Movie Cinema Historic Railway Station Entertainment Centre Castle Hill Lookout Strand Park

SWIMMING ENCLOSURE

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TOURIST INFORMATION

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intownsville.com.au | 43

HERITAGE TRAILS TRAILS HERITAGE OFTOWNSVILLE TOWNSVILLE HERITAGE TRAILS OF OF TOWNSVILLE

Townsville’s heritage walking trails are a must do for anybody who Townsville’s heritagewalking walking trails areaamust must dofor foranybody anybody who Townsville’s heritage trails are do who wants to experience the city’s diversity of historical architecture, wants experience the city’s diversityarray historical architecture, wants totoexperience the city’s diversity ofofhistorical architecture, lush tropical gardens and impressive of natural attractions. lushtropical gardensand impressivearray natural attractions. attractions. lush ofofnatural The tropical walks gardens are filled and withimpressive interpretivearray information and hundreds Thewalks walks arefilled filledwith withinterpretive interpretiveinformation information and and hundreds hundreds The of pictorialareopportunities to get to know the real Townsville. pictorialopportunities opportunities toto get get toto know know the real real Townsville.

Townsville. ofof pictorial The walking trails will acquaint you withthesocial and cultural Thewalking walking trails will will acquaint you you with with social social and and cultural cultural The experiences trails that createacquaint lifetime memories. experiencesthat thatcreate createlifetime lifetimememories. memories. experiences

FLINDERS STREET FLINDERS STREET

along the Civic Pride or Early Townsville Trails. along the the Civic Civic Pride along Pride or or Early Early Townsville TownsvilleTrails.

Trails.

The trails are composed of three parts: a hand held brochure, The trails are composed of three parts: aahand The trailsmarkers are composed of threetrail parts: handheld heldbrochure, brochure, building and interpretive signage. building markers markers and building and interpretive interpretive trail trail signage. signage.

Brochures are available at various outlets including Townsville Brochures are are available at various including Townsville Brochures available various outlets outlets including information centres, the atCityLibraries Flinders Street Townsville Branch and information centres, the CityLibraries Flinders Street Branch and information centres, Flinders Street Branch and the front counter of the the CityLibraries Townsville City Council, Planning Services the front counter of the Townsville City Council, Planning counterStreet of theAdministration Townsville Citybuilding.

Council, PlanningServices Services Allow half an hour for a brisk walk or longer for a leisurely stroll the at front the Walker Allow half an hour for a brisk walk or longer for a leisurely stroll at the Walker Street Administration building.

Allow half an hour for a brisk walk or longer for a leisurely stroll at the Walker Street Administration building.

Townsville’s fifirst rst European European contact contact occurred occurredinin1819 1819when whenAllan AllanCunningham, Cunningham,aboard aboard Townsville’s Townsville’s fivessel rst European occurred in 1819 when Allan 45 Cunningham, aboard the survey survey vessel Mermaid,contact landedon onCape CapeCleveland.

Cleveland. further yearselapsed elapsed before the Mermaid, landed AAfurther 45 years before the survey vessel Mermaid, landed on Cape Cleveland.

A further 45 years elapsed before John Melton Melton Black Blackand andhis hispartner partnerRobert RobertTowns, Towns,after afterwhom whomthe thecity citywas wasnamed, named, founded John founded John Meltonin Black and his 1864. partner Robert Towns, after whom the city was named, founded Townsville November Townsville in November 1864.

Townsville in November 1864.

Originally Townsville Townsville was was aa slowly slowly developing developingseaport seaportwith withpastoralists pastoralistssettling settlingininthe the Originally Originally Townsville adiscovery slowly developing seaport with pastoralists settling in the hinterland.

Followingwas thediscovery goldinin1867 1867 developed rapidlyand and 1880 was hinterland.

Following the ofofgold ititdeveloped rapidly byby1880 was hinterland.

Following the discovery of gold in 1867 it developed rapidly and by 1880 was the port port for for ve major major goldfi eldsand and themain main supply centreofofNorthern Northern Australia. the fifive goldfi elds the supply centre Australia. the port for five major goldfields and the main supply centre of Northern Australia.

Later itit became became the the centre centrefor forrich richsugar sugargrowing growingdistricts districtstotothe theNorth Northand andSouth.

South.

Today Later Today Later it became centremodern for rich city sugar growing districts to centre the North and South.

Today Townsville is aa flflthe ourishing modern cityand and theadministrative administrative centre North Queensland, Townsville is ourishing the ofofNorth Queensland, Townsville a flourishing city and the administrative centre of North Queensland, still is preserves richmodern heritage from its golden past. but it still preserves aarich heritage from its golden past. but it still preserves a rich heritage from its golden past.

TRAIL1.

1. >>CIVIC PRIDE TRAIL >> CIVICPRIDE

Traces The walk displays the consolidation Traces the thegrowth growthof ofthe theheart heartof ofTownsville’s Townsville’sCentral CentralBusiness BusinessDistrict District(CBD).

(CBD).

The walk displays the consolidation Traces growth ofmovement the heart of Central Business District (CBD).

The of walk displays the consolidation of thethe westward of the conjunction with the commercial and westward movement ofTownsville’s the CBD CBDinin conjunction with theexpansion expansion ofinsurance, insurance, commercial and ofbanking the westward movement of the CBD in conjunction with the expansion of insurance, commercial and institutions. banking institutions. banking institutions.

While many anan many of of the the buildings buildings exhibit exhibitlandmark landmarkqualities, qualities,allallcontribute contributetotothe thestreetscape streetscapeand andprovide provide While many of the buildings emergence exhibit landmark qualities, all contribute to the streetscape and provide an understanding of asasthe centre North Queensland. understanding ofTownsville’s Townsville’s emergence theadministrative administrative centreofof North Queensland. understanding of Townsville’s emergence as the administrative centre of North Queensland.

44 | Sept. 2015 - Feb. 2016

HERITAGE HERITAGETRAILS TRAILS OF OFTOWNSVILLE TOWNSVILLE OF TOWNSVILLE

ANZAC PARK 1905 ANZAC PARK 1905 ANZAC PARK 1905 ANZAC PARK 1905

Townsville was established on the the banks ofcrocodile crocodile infested mangrove creek Townsville waswas established on on the banks of aof infested mangrove creek Townsville established banks aa crocodile infested mangrove creek was established on banks of a crocodile crocodile infested infestedmangrove mangrovecreek creek Townsville wasdevelopment established on the to serve pastoral development the hinterland. to Townsville serve pastoral in the the hinterland. to serve pastoral development inin the hinterland. servepastoral pastoraldevelopment development in in the hinterland. totoserve The opening of large large tracts of northern northern grazing land after 1861 led to the the TheThe opening of of large tracts of of northern grazing landland after 1861 ledled to to the opening tracts grazing after 1861 The opening opening of large tracts of northern land after 1861 led toto the The tracts of grazing land after 1861 ledpastoral the development of large coastal harbours that had good access to inland pastoral development of of coastal harbours thatthat hadhad good access to to inland pastoral development of coastal harbours good access inland development of coastal harbours good access to inland pastoral development of coastal harbours that had access to inland pastoral holdings. holdings. holdings. holdings. holdings.

John Melton Black, general manager for Robert Robert Towns Co’s interests North John Melton Black, general manager for for Robert Towns & Co’s interests in North John Melton Black, general manager Towns && Co’s interests inin North JohnMelton MeltonBlack, Black,general general manager manager for for Robert Towns && Co’s interests ininNorth John Robert Towns Co’s interests North Queensland, addressed the need landing place closer to Towns’ pastoral Queensland, addressed thethe need for for aforlanding place closer to Towns’ pastoral Queensland, addressed need aa landing place closer to Towns’ pastoral Queensland,addressed addressed the the need need for for aa landing landing place closer to Towns’ pastoral Queensland, closer to Towns’ leases.

He sent Andrew Ball and Mark Watt Reid to explore explore Cleveland Bay and leases.

HeHe sentsent Andrew BallBall andand Mark Watt Reid toplace explore Cleveland Baypastoral andand leases.

Andrew Mark Watt Reid to Cleveland Bay leases.He Hesent sentAndrew Andrew Ball Ball and and Mark Watt Reid to explore Cleveland Bay and leases. report on suitability its suitability suitability asport. a port. port. Mark Watt Reid to explore Cleveland Bay and report on its as a report on its as a reporton onits itssuitability suitability as as aa port. port. report John Melton Black’s plans needed Robert Towns’ financial nancial backing.

The two John Melton Black’s plans needed Robert Towns’ financial backing.

The two John Melton Black’s plans needed Robert Towns’ backing.

The two John Melton Black’s plans needed Robert Towns’ fififinancial backing.

The two John Melton plans needed Robert Towns’ nancial backing.

The two men formed a partnership partnership and November 1864 John Melton Black selected men formed a partnership andand in November 1864 John Melton Black selected men formed aBlack’s and ininNovember November 1864 John Melton Black selected men formed a partnership in 1864 John Melton Black selected men formed a partnership November 1864 John Melton selected land bounded by the the mouth ofin Ross Creek and the rocky spurs ofMelton Melton Hill. land bounded by the mouth ofand Ross Creek andand thethe rocky spurs ofBlack Melton Hill. land bounded by mouth of Ross Creek and the rocky spurs of Melton Hill. land bounded by the mouth of Ross Creek rocky spurs ofof Hill. land bounded by the mouth of Ross Creek and the rocky spurs Melton Hill.

The secure port and settlement referred toas as “The Bay” or“Castletown” “Castletown” rapidly The secure portport and settlement referred to as “The Bay” or or “Castletown” rapidly The secure and settlement referred to as “The Bay” or “Castletown” rapidly The secure port and settlement referred to “The Bay” rapidly The secure port settlement referred to asthat “The Bay” orfrom “Castletown” rapidly emerged out ofand the rocky mangrove belt that extended from the crocodile emerged outout of of the rocky mangrove beltbelt that extended thethe crocodile emerged the rocky mangrove belt extended from crocodile emerged out the rocky mangrove that extended from emerged out ofof the rocky mangrove belt thatEast. extended from the the crocodile crocodile infested creek across what is now Flinders Street East. infested creek across what is now Flinders Street infested creek across what is now Flinders Street East. infested creek across what is now Flinders Street East. infested creek across what is now Flinders Street East.

Flinders Street East became the main thoroughfare and focus ofcommercial commercial Flinders Street East became thethe main thoroughfare and a focus ofofcommercial Flinders Street East became the main thoroughfare and focus of commercial Flinders Street East became main thoroughfare and aaafocus Street East became the main thoroughfare and a focus ofboiling commercial and port activity.

By early 1865 work on the road, wharves and boiling down andFlinders portport activity.

By early 1865 work onon thethe road, wharves and boiling down and activity.

By early 1865 work on the road, wharves and down and port activity.

By early 1865 work road, wharves and boiling down and port activity.

By early 1865 work on the road, wharves and boiling down works was well underway. works was well underway. works was well underway. works was well works was well underway.

The rst land sales for Townsville were held Bowen 1865. year later TheThe firstfififirst landland sales for for Townsville were held in inBowen in in1865.

A Ayear later sales Townsville were held ininBowen Bowen inin1865.

1865.

AAyear year later The rst land Townsville were held later fisettlement rst landwas sales Townsville were held in Bowen in 1865.

Aits year later the was officially cially named ‘Townsville’ recognition ofits nancial theThe settlement offifor cially named ‘Townsville’ in in recognition ofofits fiits nancial the settlement was offi named ‘Townsville’ ininrecognition recognition of fifinancial offi named ‘Townsville’ financial the settlement was offi cially named ‘Townsville’ in recognition of its financial benefactor Captain Robert Towns. benefactor Captain Robert Towns. benefactor Captain Robert Towns.

Captain Towns. benefactor Captain Robert Towns.

FLIND ERS FLIND FLIND STREE ERSERS STREE STREE EAST T EAST TTEAST FLINDERS STREET EAST

TRAIL TRAIL2.2.

2.>> EARLYTOWNSVILLE TOWNSVILLE >>EARLY TRAIL EARLY TOWNSVILLE >>

Reveals the city’s earliest port-related commercial precinct original ‘heart the city’ city’s earliest port-related commercial precinct inthe the original ‘heart of the city’ Reveals thethe city’s earliest port-related commercial precinct ininthe original ‘heart ofofthe city’ . . ..

Reveals city’s earliest port-related commercial precinct in the original ‘heart of the city’ Reveals the city’s earliest port-related commercial precinct in the original ‘heart of the city’. walk traces the 1880’s transformation the Flinders Street East precinct from single storey timber The traces the 1880’s transformation of the Flinders Street East precinct from single storey timber TheThe walk traces thethe 1880’s transformation ofof the Flinders Street East precinct from single storey timber walk traces 1880’s transformation of the Flinders Street East precinct from single storey timber The walkinto traces the 1880’s transformation of the Flinders Street East precinct from single storey timber structures into one and two storey masonry buildings.

Refl ected fabric and function ofof these buildings structures into one and two storey masonry buildings.

Refl ected inthe the fabric and function of these buildings structures one and two storey masonry buildings.

Refl ected ininthe fabric and function of these buildings structures into one and two storey masonry buildings.

Refl ected in the fabric and function these buildings into and two storey masonry buildings.

Reflected in the fabric and function of these buildings are glimpses of Townsville’s early character and development. are glimpses ofone Townsville’s early character and development. arestructures glimpses of Townsville’s early character and development. are glimpses of Townsville’s early character and development. are glimpses of Townsville’s early character and development.

The walk also includes regional attractions Reef HQ and the Museum Tropical Queensland.

The walk also includes regional attractions Reef HQ and the Museum of Tropical Queensland.

TheThe walk also includes regional attractions Reef HQ and the Museum ofofTropical Queensland. walk also includes regional attractions Reef HQ and the Museum of Tropical Queensland.

The walk also includes regional attractions Reef HQ and the Museum of Tropical Queensland.

intownsville.com.au | 45

HERITAGE TRAILS OF TOWNSVILLE

ROSS CREEK 1906

As a natural barrier between South Townsville and the town centre, Ross Creek has also been the focus of maritime and social activity since it was first surveyed in 1864.

Named after William Ross (1831-1887), a member of John Melton Black’s original settlement party responsible for establishing Townsville, the creek created a strong sense of community focus but also identified South Townsville as a separate entity.

Residents of South Townsville developed a close relationship with water. The creek and mangroves were excellent for harvesting seafood. Popular pastimes included sailing, boating and swimming. Being able to swim or row boats at an early age was seen as integral in one’s social development in the area. For many years the opening of the sailing season was held in Ross Creek. Trips to Magnetic Island would not be possible without first boarding the ferry in Ross Creek.

Initially the only way to access South Townsville was by ferry. The landing for Townsville’s first ferry service, the Penny Ferry, was adjacent to the Metropole Hotel. Other methods of accessing South Townsville proved more problematic – a bridge near the Metropole Hotel had to be demolished within a year of completion as it restricted shipping in the creek. The success of the Penny Ferry also attracted other ferries and boats to the creek. Victoria Bridge forded the creek permanently in 1889 and was the catalyst for further growth in the area.

REGAT TA LAUNCH IN ROSS CREEK

VIEW OF ROSS CREEK AND SOUTH TOWNSVILLE 1914

TRAIL 3. >> SOUTH TOWNSVILLE & PORT Tells the story of the relationship between the industrial and the residential aspects of this working class suburb. From its earliest days, Ross Island, now known as South Townsville, was a hub for industry and many men from the suburb worked at the port and in associated industries.

The early architecture of the suburb reflects its social make-up whilst numerous pubs provide a snapshot of the daily social interaction between wharfies, seamen, meatworkers and railway workers.

46 | March - August 2016

What’s What’s OnOn Regular Events FULL MOON DRUM CIRCLE Monthly (weather ( permitting) Venue: Gregory Street Amphitheatre Time: 6pm - 7.30pm 7 Contact: Alex: 0414 803 666 www.therhythmconnection.com COTTERS MARKETS Venue: Flinders Street, City (Between Stanley St & Denham St) Time: Every Sunday 8:30am to 1pm www.townsvillerotarymarkets.com.au

THE STRAND

LIVE MUSIC A AT CITY LANE Monthly Venue: City Lane, 373-385 Flinders Street, Townsville City Contact: www.citylane.com.au

WILLOWS ROTARY MARKETS Venue: Willows Shoppingtown, Hervey Range Road, Kirwan Time: Every Sunday 7:30am to 11:30am (Excl. Christmas and New Years) www.townsvillerotarymarkets.com.au STRAND NIGHT MARKETS May - December Venue: Strand Park, The Strand Time: 1st Friday of the month 5pm to 9:30pm (Except July & August - 2nd Friday) www.townsvillerotarymarkets.com.au NORTH QUEENSLAND FARMERS MARKET Venue: Main Street, North Shore Time: Saturdays 6am - 12noon www.nqfarmersmarket.com.au RENEGADE HANDMADE MARKET Venue: Aitkenvale School Hall, 67-85 Wotton St, Aitkenvale Time: Every 2nd Sat of the month, 8am - 1pm renegadehandmade@hotmail.com FULL MOON DRUM CIRCLE intownsville.com.au | 47

April TWO TO TANGO EXHIBITION 1 Artists: Sally Grattidge & Marjory Cook 15 - 17 April, 10am - 4pm Venue: 14 Anderson St, Railway Estate Contact: 4724 2742 JULIA CREEK DIRT N DUST FESTIVAL 15 - 17 April Venue: Julia Creek, Outback Queesnland Contact: 07 4779 6770 / dirtndust.com ANZAC DAY 25 April Venue: Cenotaph, Anzac Memorial Park The Strand MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW 26 - 27 April, 7.30pm Venue: Townsville Civic Theatre Contact: TicketShop on 4727 9797 EDUCATING RITA 29 - 30 March Venue: Townsville Civic Theatre Contact: TicketShop on 4727 9797

March

OCEAN FILM FESTIVAL AUSTRALIA 3 March Venue: Riverway Arts Centre Time: 7.00pm Contact: Ticketshop 4727 9797 MAGNETIC ISLAND ADVENTURETHON 19 - 20 March Venue: Magnetic Island Contact: adventurethon.com.au/events/ magnetic-island/

48 | March - August 2016

Julia Creek

July V8 SUPERCARS TOWNSVILLE 400 8 - 10 July Venue: Reid Park Contact: v8supercars.com.au/townsville

May ART IN THE GARDEN Framed watercolours 7 - 8 May, 10am - 4pm Venue: 14 Anderson St, Railway Estate Contact: 4724 2742 2016 NORTH QUEENSLAND FESTIVAL OF ONE-ACT PLAYS 6 - 8 May, Various times Venue: Riverway Arts Centre Contact: TicketShop on 4727 9797

TWO TO TANGO EXHIBITION 4 Artists: Geoff Maidens & Julie Boyd 9 - 10 July, 10am - 4pm Venue: 14 Anderson St, Railway Estate Contact: 4724 2742 AUSTRALIAN FESTIVAL OF CHAMBER MUSIC July 29 - August 6 Venue: Townsville Contact: 4771 4144, www.afcm.com.au STRAND EPHEMERA July 31 - August 9 Venue: The Strand, Townsville Contact: 4772 3656

TWO TO TANGO EXHIBITION 2 Artists: Jenny Hyatt & Marion O’Shea 21 - 22 May, 10am - 4pm Venue: 14 Anderson St, Railway Estate Contact: 4724 2742

June WUTHERING HEIGHTS 2 - 3 June Venue: Townsville Civic Theatre Contact: TicketShop on 4727 9797 CHARTERS TOWERS MOTOR SHOW AND SWAP MEET 10 - 12 June Venue: Charters Towers Contact: ctrc.com.au TWO TO TANGO EXHIBITION 3 Artists: Val Claussen & Annette Ireland 11 - 12 June, 10am - 4pm Venue: 14 Anderson St, Railway Estate Contact: 4724 2742 CARL BARRON DRINKING WITH A FORK 21 - 22 & 24 - 28 June Venue: Townsville Civic Theatre Contact: TicketShop on 4727 9797

AUSTRALIAN FESTIVAL OF CHAMBER MUSIC

August

TWO TO TANGO EXHIBITION 5 Artists: Helen Caldwell & Gai Copeman 6 - 7 August, 10am - 4pm Venue: 14 Anderson St, Railway Estate Contact: 4724 2742 OPERA QUEENSLAND: THE BARBER OF SEVILLE 17 August, 7.30pm Venue: Townsville Civic Theatre Contact: 4771 4144, www.afcm.com.au intownsville.com.au | 49

Tourism and Events Queensland

PARKS & GARDENS

ROSS RIVER

ANDERSON PARK BOTANIC GARDENS

Where: Gulliver Street, Pimlico (Vehicle access) Fulham Road, Balls Lane, Gulliver and Wellington Streets (Pedestrian access) Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, internal car parking, 10,000 steps circuit.

Anderson Gardens is the largest botanic garden in Townsville covering 25 hectares. 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 are displayed along with native plants and flora of the dry tropical regions of the world. Anderson Gardens was named in appreciation of the work of William Anderson, Townsville’s first Curator of Parks from 1878 - 1934.

all located in Tumbetin Lodge. The Palmetum is a 17 hectare Botanic Garden displaying one of the largest and most diverse public collections of palms in the world. It has a range of habitats to suit flora originating from the dry tropicas through to the wet tropical lowlands. In addition to the recreated habitat zones, there are expansive lawns and water features frequented by numerous bird species. A ‘Birds of Palmetum’ brochure is available in the foyer of the Tumbetin Lodge.

PIONEER PARK & ROSS RIVER

Riverway Drive, Thuringowa.

The park provides recreational facilities and is a popular fishing location.

RIVERWAY

Thuringowa Drive, Kirwan.

The gardens feature a wide range of native flora situated amongst large lawn parks and paved pathways.

Located in Townsville on the magnificent Ross River, Riverway offers a dynamic combination of cultural, sports, leisure, residential and commercial activities.

With two huge swimming lagoons, the Riverway Arts Centre, Pinnacles Gallery, the Riverwalk and parklands, there truly is so much to explore.

THE STRAND

RIVERWAY - RIVERWAY LAGOONS

DAN GLEESON MEMORIAL GARDENS

Where: The Strand Townsville’s fantastic beachfront promenade, The Strand incorporates a jetty, recreational park, restaurants, cafes, a series of headlands, a free water park, picnic areas and swimming pools and enclosures.

QUEENS GARDENS

Where: Paxton Street, Gregory Street & Kennedy Lane, North Ward. Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, children’s playground, aviaries.

Initiated in 1870, Queens Gardens is the oldest Botanic Garden in Townsville. Now covering 4 hectares, reduced from an original 40Ha, it is considered a fine example of a tropical garden for European settlement, plantings included timber and fruit trees and collections of Dracaena, Codiaeum and Cordyline. Today the emphasis of the collection is on the colonial ornamental plants with colourful, attractive flowers, foliage or fruit.

TOWNSVILLE PALMETUM

Where: University Road, Douglas.

Facilities: Toilets, botanical displays, tourist information, selected art exhibitions and Café are

50 | March - August 2016

Where: Riverway Drive, Kirwan The Riverway Lagoons cover an area in size of more than three Olympic swimming pools. The lagoons are nestled among shady raintrees, with the picturesque Ross River providing a peaceful backdrop. Water cascades connect the two distinct lagoon areas, which vary in depth up to 2 metres. Unlike coastal beaches there are no waves or stingers to bother you and you can feel comfortable knowing that the lagoons are patrolled by professional lifeguards seven days a week, 365 days a year.

RIVERWALK

The Riverwalk overlooks the beautiful Ross River and is a great place to view the prolific birdlife in this area. A 3-metre wide pathway runs along the river and provides numerous opportunities to enjoy its natural beauty. After taking a stroll, all the family can enjoy the nearby barbecue facilities provided or have a game of footy in the beautifully landscaped open space.

MUSEUMS

MUSEUM OF TROPICAL QUEENSLAND

ARMY MUSEUM NORTH QUEENSLAND Where: Jezzine Barracks. Kissing Point.

Mitchell Street, North Ward Open: Sunday, Wednesday, Friday 9am - 1pm (other times by arrangement) Phone: 07 4721 1495 or 07 4772 7276 The Army Museum of North Queensland is located within Jezzine Barracks, Kissing Point in Townsville.

The Museum displays the proud Army history of units and personnel within the North Queensland area.

The Museum houses weapons, uniforms, photographs and equipment from as far back as Colonial times through to the present day. Entry to the Museum is free. Donations are greatly appreciated.

MARITIME MUSEUM Where: Palmer Street, South Townsville (Map Ref. 11. Page 42) Open: 7 days 10am - 3pm (excluding public holidays) Phone: 07 4721 5251 Web: www.townsvillemaritimemuseum.org.au The complex was completed in 2000, and consists of two galleries, a model boat building room, boatshed and BBQ area. The original building houses the SS Yongala shipwreck collection and was once the pier masters office when located at the port. The lighthouse was relocated from Bay Rock and dates from 1886.

MUSEUM OF TROPICAL QUEENSLAND Where: Flinders Street East, City (Map Ref 10. Page 42) Open: Daily 9.30am - 5pm (Closed Christmas Day, Good Friday and the morning of Anzac Day, 25 April) Phone: 07 4726 0600 Web: www.mtq.qm.qld.gov.au Discover the natural and cultural heritage of North queensland at the Museum of Tropical Queensland.

Located in the heart of Townsville, the Museum is filled with exhibitions to captivate visitors of all ages.

Learn about HMS Pandora, the ship sent by British Admiralty to capture the Bounty and her mutinous crew, explore a typical North queensland rainforest environment in the Enchanted Rainforest, admire historic dive helmets in the Langley Collection: Heritage of Helmets, or immerse yourself in the interactive Colour: Secret Language of the Reef.

NATIONAL TRUST HERITAGE CENTRE Where: 5 Castling Street, West End Open: Wednesday 10am - 2pm, Weekends 1pm - 4pm Entry: $8 Adult, $2 child, $5 Concession Phone: 07 4771 5873 Web: www.heritagecentre.org.au RAAF TOWNSVILLE MUSEUM Where: Ingham Road, Garbutt Open: Tuesdays & Thursdays 9am - 12pm and Sundays 10am - 4pm or by appointment 4752 1712.

Web: www.raafmuseum.com The RAAF Townsville Museum promotes and preserves the military aviation history of North Queensland from WWII to present time and includes all theatres of conflict associated with the area.

TOWNSVILLE MUSEUM & HISTORICAL SOCIETY Where: 231 Hugh Street, Currajong Open: Mon, Wed - Friday 10am-3pm, Sunday 1.30pm - 3.30pm Phone: 47 757838 Web: www.townsvillemuseuminc.com QUARANTINE MUSEUM Where: Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park 1 The Esplanade, Pallarenda Open: Monday - Friday 9am - 3.30pm Phone: 4722 5224 The historic Quarantine Museum at Cape Pallarenda is an interesting place. The hill behind it contains World War II gun emplacements you can explore along a good walking track from the museum.

intownsville.com.au | 51

ART GALLERIES

KAYLENNE CREIGHTON GALLERY Corner Howitt & Rose St, North Ward Open: Thur - Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-2pm or by appointment Phone: 4724 1106, kaylennecreighton.com.au NQ POTTERS WORKSHOP NQ Potters workshop at 15 Flowers Street, Railway Estate. Fully equipped workspace for members, classes and workshops.

Phone: 07 4772 3458 for more info.

MO’S ART GALLERY 2/14 Anderson Street, Railway Estate Open: By appointment Phone: 4724 2742

PERC TUCKER REGIONAL GALLERY Cnr Denham St & Flinders St Open: Mon - Fri 10am - 5pm, Sat & Sun 10am - 2pm Phone: 4727 9000 PINNACLES GALLERY Riverway Arts Centre, Kirwan Open: Wed - Fri 11am - 7pm, Sat 11am - 6pm, Sun 11am - 2pm Phone: 4773 8566 STUDIO 2: GALLERY & STUDIO 486-488 Flinders Street West, Townsville Open: Mon - Fri 9am - 4.30pm, Sat & Sun 9am - 12pm Phone: 0418 936 927, www.studio2townsville.org STOCKLAND POP-UP SHOP Stockland Shopping Centre, opp. Best & Less Open: Monday-Saturday from 10am, Sunday 11am SYLVIA DITCHBURN FINE ART Shop 7, Metro Quays, 86 Ogden Street, Townsville Open: Tues - Fri 10am - 4pm, Sun 10am - 1pm Phone: 4724 3953 www.sylviaditchburnfineartgallery.com

THE TOWNSVILLE WATERCOLOUR GROUP’S

2016 CALENDAR AT ‘MO’SART’ 14 Anderson Street, Railway Estate

ANNUAL OUTDOOR EVENTS “ART IN THE GARDEN” A framed exhibition Sat & Sun 7th & 8th May, 10am - 4pm

“UNDER THE MANGO TREE” An unframed clothesline exhibition Sat & Sun 1st & 2nd October, 10am - 4pm 52 | Sept. 2015 - Feb. 2016

Something new in 2016

“TWO TO TANGO”

Members of the Townsville Watercolour Group will unite as follows: April 9-10 May 21-22 June 11- 12 July 9-10 August 6-7 Sept. 3-4

Sally Grattidge & Marjory Cook Jenny Hyatt & Marion O’Shea Val Claussen & Annette Ireland Geoff Maidens & Julie Boyd Helen Caldwell & Gai Copeman Deb Belcastro & Donna Maloney

at “Mo’sArt” On the above weekends the Gallery will be open from 10am to 4pm Open Wed: 9am to 2pm Feb-Dec

YOU CAN VISIT MO’SART GALLERY AT OTHER TIMES BY APPOINTMENT PHONE 4724 2742 PAINTINGS AND MINIATURES OF TOWNSVILLE ALWAYS AVAILABLE

THE SWEATSHOP 181 Flinders Street, Townsville Open: Mon - Fri 7.30am - 4pm, Sat 9am - 4pm, Sun 10am - 2pm www.thesweatshop.com.au TOWNSVILLE ART SOCIETY Hut 25, Jezzine Barracks, Mitchell St, North Ward Open: Monday - Sunday 10am - 4pm Phone: ‘Art at Jezzine’ 4771 3484 TOWNSVILLE WATERCOLOUR GROUP 2/14 Anderson Street, Railway Estate Open: Wednesdays (or by appointment) From 3rd Wednesday in January to 2nd Wednesday in December Phone: 4724 2742 UMBRELLA STUDIO 482 Flinders Street, Townsville Open: Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm, Sun 9am - 1pm Phone: 4772 7109, www.umbrella.org.au URBAN COTTERS Urban Quarter Shopping Centre, Cnr Ogden & Stanley St, Townsville Open: Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat 9am - 1pm, Sun 8am - 1pm Phone: 0487 305 266, www.urbancotters.net

Original art, decorative arts & craft for sale at

‘Art at Jezzine’ Eftpos and lay-by facilities available

Open Daily 10.00am - 4.00pm Jezzine Barracks, Mitchell St, North Ward

Phone 4771 3484

www.townsvilleartsocietyinc.org.au Email: tasarts@bigpond.com

K������� C��i�ht�� .com.au GALLERY AUSTRALIAN LANDSCAPE ARTIST

Original Paintings | Giclee’ Fine Art Prints Limited Editions | Commissions Thur/Fri 10am-4pm & Sat 10am-2pm OR by Appointment Eftpos and Gift Service Available

E kaylennes.artwork@bigpond.com facebook/kaylennecreightongallery

Cnr Howitt & Rose St, Northward | 4724 1106 intownsville.com.au | 53

TOWNSVILLE’S ISLAND PLAYGROUND Magnetic Island is magnetic both by name and nature.

Originally named for its interference to Captain Cook’s compass, it now draws visitors from far and wide, and for good reason. With more than 22 secluded bays and beaches, spectacular fringing reefs and a flora and fauna filled National Park, Magnetic Island is a nature lover’s paradise and with an average of 320 fine days every year, Magnetic Island is the sunniest spot on the Queensland coast.

Huntingfield Bay Rollingstone Bay

West Point

The Island is a charming holiday destination characterised by the fact that it is an island community with a resident population of over 2000, and has a wide variety of environmental experiences and attractions.

Young Bay

There are tracks meandering all over the island, and perhaps the most popular of them is the one that leads to the now disused World War II emplacements that face out to sea from the camouflage of huge granite boulders. The Command Post offers a breathtaking 360 degree panoramic view of Townsville, Cape Bowling Green and Palm Island.

A huge variety of wildlife can be seen on Magnetic Island. In fact the Island is sometimes known as the ‘Koala Capital of Australia’. There are also large numbers of possums, rock wallabies, curlews, hawks, eagles and parrots, to name a few.

The more observant visitor should be able to spot most of the 160 species of Magnetic Island birdlife. The vegetation on the Island is also diverse, with pockets of lowland, tropical rainforests, mudflats, freshwater lagoons, eucalypt woodlands and mangrove fringes supporting an abundance of habitats.

You can get to the island by the car and passenger ferry located on Ross Street, South Townsville, or you can jump aboard the ferry service Sealink, taking only 25 minutes, with the terminal located near the city centre on Sir Leslie Thiess Drive. Come over and enjoy the most relaxing stay you will ever experience.

MAGNETIC JET SKI TOURS

54 | Sept. 2015 - Feb. 2016

FIV

Retreat Creek

Bolger Bay

MAGNETIC ISLAND Road

Reef

Road restricted to private vehicles

Shipwreck

Walking track

Surf Life Saving Patrol

Lookout

Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal

National Park Beach

Helipad Marine National Park

BUNGALOW BAY KOALA VILLAGE

D

Lovers Bay Maud Bay

VE BEACH BAY

Norris Bay

Joyce Bay

HORSESHOE BAY Endeavour Creek

Gowrie Bay

R

CD PACIFI

HORSESHOE BAY RD

Florence Bay

MAGNETIC ISLAND NATIONAL PARK

Arthur Bay Gorge Creek

MT COOK

Duck Creek

Petersen Creek

Gustav Creek

ARCADIA

ARMAND WA Y

493m

Whitfield Cove

ALMA BAY

DE

EP

RD

RIN MA

ONING ST

SO

Geoffrey Bay

ADIA

Wilson Bay

Balding Bay Radical Bay

Bremmer Point

ARC

d

White Lady Bay

Bright Point

Ned Lee Creek

NELLY BAY Butler Creek

Cockle Bay

Rocky Bay

Nobby Head

PICNIC BAY

Hawkings Point

MAGNETIC ISLAND SEA KAYAKS

intownsville.com.au | 55

WELCOME TO THE ISLAND

Nelly Bay is the main access point for transport into Magnetic Island. The people mover Sealink, transfer hundreds of tourists and locals daily to this point where buses, taxis, mokes, scooters, and bikes disperse their passengers onto all the other many busy locations found on the island. The car and passenger ferry, Fantasea also docks next to the terminal.

As you step off the ferry and pass through the modern terminal, within walking distance you will find shops including an ice-cream shop, supermarket, cafés, bottle shop, pharmacy, hairdresser, service station, real estate, photo shop, travel agency, and car/ moke/scooter hire.

Walking tracks winding up through the hills start or end here. These walks may take a little while to complete so be prepared with water, sunscreen, good shoes etc.

56 | March - August 2016

Picnic Bay is now the most tranquil of the bays. It is well worth a stroll along the old jetty; now that there are no ferries, the fish life abounds, turtles are frequent visitors and occasionally you may see a shy dugong come round the point from Cockle Bay. Have a game of golf at the island’s only golf couse. The views are breathtaking so you won’t be in any hurry to finish the course.

You’ll have plenty of company as the course is home to all sorts of wildlife including wallabies, curlews and koalas who all enjoy watching a casual game of holiday makers.

Head along the western track to discover West Point. An ideal fishing spot and a chance to escape from everyone.

18 trips. 20 minutes.

Your quickest link to Magnetic Island.

TROPIC HIGHLIGHTS

VALUE PACKAGES

Give us two days and we will show you the very best of Townsville and Magnetic Island in one convenient package which includes: • • • • •

Return ferry transfers All day bus pass on Magnetic Island Entry into Bungalow Bay Koala Village Entry into Reef HQ Entry into Museum of Tropical QLD

priced from $108pp*

FERRY + ALL DAY BUS from

$35pp

INCLUSIONS • Return ferry to Magnetic Island • All day island bus pass Child, concession, student & family options also available.

FERRY + DRINK + CAR from

$42pp

INCLUSIONS • Return ferry cruise to Magnetic Island • 1 drink each on ferry • 1 day car hire^ on Magnetic Island Excludes $9.00 fuel levy. Vehicle upgrades available. Based on 4 person hire.

^

*Concession, child and family packages also available.

Prices subject to change

BOOK ONLINE &

Connect with us

For bookings call 1300

624 443

sealinkqld.com.au

SAVE

Accommodation 07 4778 5418 Hotel and Bars 07 4778 5177 1-4 Marine Parade, Arcadia

hotel@arcadiavillage.com.au www.hotelarcadia.com.au

GREAT BEER • GREAT FOOD • GREAT PUB

Bottleshop

• 3.5 Star Accommodation • Beachfront location • Weddings, Parties, Functions, Conference • Internet Cafe • Public Laundromat • 2 ATMs • Ice • Bars • Bistro • Pokies • Keno • U Bet TAB • Drive-in bottleshop • Live entertainment every weekend

FREE $1000 JACKPOT BINGO EVERY Sunday from 2pm

HOME OF THE

WORLD FAMOUS TOAD RACES Every Wednesday night

Proud sponsor of Arcadia SLSC and many other island community services.

Visit beautiful Magnetic Island!

Take in the stunning views while cruising on Magnetic Island’s only passenger and car ferry.

FREE parking & FREE Wi-Fi!

With eight return trips daily, we welcome you aboard as we make our 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.

Loading commences 20 minutes before departure. Vehicle bookings essential.

Simply book online at

fantaseacruisingmagnetic.com.au

MUST DO ON THE ISLAND > Navigate your way around the island by road, or learn more about island life with a tour > Explore the walking tracks through the National Park

> Climb the island’s spectacular rocky outcrops > Back a toad at the weekly cane toad races on Wednesday nights at Hotel Arcadia

> Take The Forts walk to spot a koala, see the World War II ruins and the amazing view of the Coral Sea

> Grab a bargain at one of 3 markets - Friday nights at the RSL Club, every second Sunday at Alma Bay and on the last Sunday of the month at Horseshoe Bay

> Observe the rock wallabies at Geoffrey Bay in Arcadia

> Take in a cabaret dinner at Stage Door Theatre Restaurant

> Snorkel the fringing reef surrounding the island

> Play a round of golf at the Picnic Bay Country Club

> Cuddle a koala or kiss a croc at Bungalow Bay Koala Village > Visit the local artists and art galleries > Take the 4WD road and picnic at secluded West Point > Sail around the island to discover it’s 23 hidden bays > Test your fitness level or just have fun with a great selection of water sports at Horseshoe Bay

> Test out the greens at the Magnetic Island Bowling Club > Gallop from the bush to the Coral Sea on horseback > See the island from the air with the Red Baron > Try a bush tucker breakfast at Bungalow Bay Koala Village

> Stop at Horseshoe Bay, West Point or the end of Picnic Bay Jetty and catch a brilliant sunset

Ph 4726 0800

Timetable Day

Depart Townsville

Depart Magnetic Is.

Mon-Sat* Mon-Sun* Mon-Sun Mon-Sun Mon-Sun Mon-Sun Mon-Sun Mon-Sun Mon-Sun Mon-Sun Mon-Sun Mon-Sun Mon-Fri* Mon-Sun Mon-Sun Mon-Sun Mon-Sun Fri-Sat*

5.30 am 6.30 am 7.05 am 7.45 am 8.45 am 9.30 am 10.30 am 11.30 am 12.55 pm 2.15 pm 3.45 pm 4.30 pm 5.20 pm 6.00 pm 7.15 pm 9.00 pm 10.30 pm 11.30 pm

6.20 am 7.10 am 7.50 am 8.25 am 9.25 am 10.15 am 11.10 am 12.15 pm 1.35 pm 3.00 pm 4.25 pm 5.10 pm 5.55 pm 6.40 pm 7.45 pm 9.30 pm 11.00 pm 12.00 am

*These services not Operating on Public Holidays Check Website for Christmas and NYE timetables

18 trips. 20 minutes. Your quickest link www.sealinkqld.com.au

60 | March - August 2016

Monday to Friday Depart Townsville Depart Magnetic Is.

5.20am*^ 6.15am* 7.10am 8.05am 9.00am 9.55am 10.45am 11.40am^ 12.35pm 1.25pm 2.40pm 3.30pm 4.25pm 5.15pm 6.05pm 6.55pm Saturday and Sunday Depart Townsville Depart Magnetic Is. ^ Limited availability 7.10am 8.05am Thursday only

9.00am 10.45am 12.35pm 2.40pm 4.25pm 6.05pm*

9.55am 11.40am 1.25pm 3.30pm 5.15pm 6.55pm*

Book online at

* Not operating public holidays * Not operating Saturday except during QLD School holidays

fantaseacruisingmagnetic.com.au

intownsville.com.au | 61

ADVENTURE: ISLAND STYLE

Water sports are popular all year round. Plunge into the tranquil waters, or snorkel along the fringing reef and explore the island shipwreck trail. Go on a scuba dive tour to discover the marine life - it’s a great way to see the tropical fish and coral reefs. See the splendour of the dolphins, turtles, and sea eagles by taking a guided sea kayak tour exploring the beautiful bays. Jet ski or water ski around the island or hire a yacht and sail the secluded waters. You can go horse riding on the beach at Horseshoe Bay or for the ultimate views try skydiving over the island.

And when the sun goes down you can still enjoy the beaches. Every month there’s a Full Moon beach party.

Take in the natural wonder of the island and tour around by bus or taxi. For the more adventurous cruise the island with rental transport vehicle, you can even hire trail bikes, scooters or bicycles. Get off the beaten track with a 4WD drive tour or there’s the 25 kilometres of walking trails through the National Park.

62 | March - August 2016

HORSESHOE BAY WATER ADVENTURE Horseshoe Bay is the islands’ largest beach and it’s northerly aspect shelters it’s waters, making it the premier location for all the island’s water activities. Hire a jet ski with Jet Ski Hire for the family or cut loose on your own. Go for a wild tube ride or water ski. Discover nature from the sea with Magnetic Island Sea Kayaks.

HORSESHOE RANCH Trekking on horseback through the Horseshoe Bay hinterland to the beach is an experience exclusive to Horseshoe Ranch Magnetic Island, with the opportunity to unsaddle your horse and go bareback riding into the blue waters of the bay or Coral Sea. MAGNETIC JET (ADRENALIN JET SKI TOURS) Magnetic Jet are The Ultimate in Jet Ski experience.

Established in 1996, they are definitely NOT just another jet ski hire. There are tours to suit all budgets and flexible timetable. The scenery and rock formations will blow you away, chance encounters with the local wildlife will certainly make your day.

The stability and power of LUXURY 4-stroke personal watercraft is sure to leave a lasting impression. Total exhilaration; either the 3 hour Circumnavigation or the 90min Top End Tour. Both; value for money, no license required, all equipment included. Your qualified LOCAL guide will showcase all the beauty Magnetic Island has on offer. Open 7 days a week, weather permitting.

Bookings highly recommended, families welcome.

Phone Pete or Sharon 4778 5533 or AH 0407 785 533.

(See back cover)

intownsville.com.au | 63

Set on 10 acres of peaceful tropical gardens, plenty of room for the whole family, or a quiet relaxing getaway by yourself. Enjoy our large swimming pool, tennis courts, & free BBQ, & mingle with the wildlife.

61- 79 Mandalay Ave, NELLY BAY PHONE (07) 4778 5200

info@amarooonmandalay.com.au amarooonmandalay.com.au

Beachfront Accommodation and Car Hire • Swimming pool • Ocean Views • Full Kitchen • Dining/Leisure Areas • Pizza Oven • BBQs • Pool Table • Snorkel equipment (for hire) • Washing machine (small fee applies)

HIRE VEHICLES FROM $50

• 4D Jeeps & Station Wagons • Family friendly • Open Top or Aircon • Price incls fuel, insurance & unlimited kms • Children’s car seats available Explore Westpoint and Radical Bay, the hidden gems of the Island only accessible by 4WD. Book early to secure your vehicle for your fun adventure around Magnetic Island.

PHONE 07 4778 5668 27 Marine Parade Arcadia, Magnetic Island info@arcadiabeachguesthouse.com.au www.arcadiabeachguesthouse.com.au

64 | March - August 2016

ARCADIA BEACH GUEST HOUSE AND CAR HIRE

Your ultimate Magnetic Island fun car!

Sea t s

4

in s t yle

!

In c lu d e s

Island highligh ts map • Lots of fun colour options to choose from • Lower cost Sedans, 5 Seaters & Automatics also available

For all bookings and enquiries please call

(07) 4758 1111

We’re here!

IGA

SUPERMARKET

CAR FERRY

PARK

Call in and see us right next to IGA, opposite Nelly Bay Harbour

intownsville.com.au | 65

ISLAND WALKS

THE FORTS WALK

HAWKINGS POINT Distance: 1.2km return Time: 1 hour Grade: easy From the eastern end of Picnic Street in Picnic Bay, a track winds to the top of a large boulder, affording views over the island to Nelly and Geoffrey bays and back towards Townsville.

HORSESHOE BAY LAGOON Distance: 200m return Time: 15mins Horseshoe Bay Lagoon is a popular area for birdwatching. The track begins on Horseshoe Bay Road, about 200m from the beach, and leads to a lagoon where a number of waterbirds can be seen.

PICNIC BAY TO WEST POINT Distance: 16km return Time: 5 hours Grade: easy This walk follows an unsealed road that links the bays on the western side of the island. The track starts at Yule Street near the golf course, passing a tidal wetland, mangroves, paperbark swamps and savanna grasslands.

HORSESHOE BAY TO BALDING AND RADICAL BAYS Distance: 3.4km return Time: 60mins return Grade: moderate The track begins at the eastern end of Horseshoe Bay beach and climbs through a steep gully of closed forest to an open eucalypt ridge. One branch of the track leads down to the secluded Balding Bay (popular with ‘sun lovers’) and the other continues onto Radical Bay north facing so it’s cool in summer and warm in winter.

Both bays offer excellent swimming opportunities. From Radical you can continue on along the ungraded road to end up at the Forts carpark.

NELLY BAY TO ARCADIA BAY Distance: 5km one way Time: 2.5 hours Grade: moderate From the end of Mandalay Avenue in Nelly Bay, this walk passes through a vine-thicket pocket, climbs gradually to the saddle between Nelly and Horseshoe bays and then follows a ridge with views over Horseshoe Bay. The track then branches, with one track leading to Arcadia Bay and the other to Horseshoe Bay Road, where you can continue on to other tracks. A 400m return sidetrack to the Sphinx lookout branches from the main track, 750m from Arcadia.

THE FORTS WALK Distance: 4km return Time: 1.5 hours Grade: moderate One of the most popular tracks on the island, the Forts walk leads to historic WWII fortifications and infrastructure. Lookouts along the way afford excellent views to the Palm Island Group in the north and Bowling Green Bay National Park in the south. Koalas are often seen in trees along the track. The walk culminates in 360 degree views from the top of the fortifications. 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. ARTHUR, FLORENCE AND RADICAL BAYS Distance: 1.4km - 6km return Time: 30mins - 2 hours return Starting from the Forts carpark, an easy track leads down to these undeveloped bays, which provide excellent swimming and snorkelling.

66 | March - August 2016

FOR THE FIT AND ADVENTUROUS Time: A few hours (depends on drink and rest stops) Take in a day of walking from Nelly Bay to Horseshoe Bay and discover the entire beauty of the Island. Stop at the many views and see wildlife along the way, including rock wallabies, koalas and an abundance of birdlife. All tracks join at various points with distances well marked. Be prepared for some uphill climbs, the views are rewarding. Once at Horseshoe Bay, reward yourself with a cold refreshing drink while waiting for the bus for the return trip.

SAFETY TIPS To help protect the environment, and to make your stay more enjoyable: Take your time, stop often for rest breaks. On hot days, you can suffer heat exhaustion. Avoid the heat of the midday sun.

Stay on track and take care on uneven or loose surfaces. Take care around cliffs, steep slopes and rock faces along the tracks and at lookouts.

Always carry plenty of drinking water. Wear sunscreen and a hat. Wear sturdy footwear, not thongs. Take care for the environment as most of the island is National Park.

Magnetic Island Tours & Charters

SNORKEL... FISH ... EXPLORE...

NO LONG TRA VEL TIMES, JUST FUN!

Discover the natural beauty of Magnetic Islands most scenic bays, beaches, reefs and headlands. Departs Nelly Bay Harbour.

• All snorkelling gear / stinger suits / fishing equip supplied • Expert snorkelling tuition • Whales and waterfalls (seasonal) • Shady deck and toilet, suitable for young and old • Delicious snacks, soft drinks, tea and coffee supplied • Easy access in and out of water • 30 years of local knowledge and secret spots to share Charter us for a tailor made day on the water, child rates and family deals available

If you’re not seeing Maggie by boat, you’re missing out! www.aquascenecharters.com.au

RECOMMENDED ON

FIND US ON

CALL US ON 0439 785 216 / 0427 900 028

BURDEKIN SHIRE

AYR & HOME HILL

TASTE THE SWEET LIFE IN THE BURDEKIN

Just one hour’s drive south of Townsville is the Burdekin Shire – sugar capital of Australia, fishing mecca, bird watching paradise and traditional homeland of the Juru Aboriginal people.

Based around the twin towns of Ayr and Home Hill, the district includes over a dozen other smaller centres and 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 laidback lifestyle.

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 harvest. These magnificent cane fires light up the skies every evening between June and December and have become a tourist attraction in their own right.

The region is alive with events with few weekends having nothing planned. Coming up we have the Burdekin Water Festival, Halloween Festival, Home Hill Harvest Festival, Burdekin Fasttrack Talent Showcase and Workshop to name a few. Check the events listings at www.burdekin.qld.gov.au to see what’s happening in the region.

The Burdekin is also home to a flourishing aquaculture industry. Pacific Reef Fisheries breed award-winning sashimi grade fish and high-quality tiger prawns which are exported to top restaurants around the nation.

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 a host of other estuary species.

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 Horseshoe Lagoon or Lilliesmere Lagoon.

The Burdekin River Bridge, which links Ayr and Home Hill, is the district’s best-known landmark. Known as the Silver Link, the 1103m crossing is the only bridge in Australia built without a solid footing and is longer than the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

68 | March - August 2016

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES • Walk across the landmark Burdekin River Bridge • Witness the fiery beauty of a cane fire • Sample the fashions of our independent boutiques • Take a barramundi fishing tour • Dive the world-famous S.S. Yongala shipwreck • Enjoy the unspoilt beauty of Alva Beach • Take in panoramic views from Mt Kelly or Mt Inkerman • Visit Ashworth’s Treasures of the Earth Gallery • See Gubulla Munda, the giant carpet snake sculpture at Plantation Park and visit the Gudjuda Cultural Centre

BURDEKIN VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Plantation Park, AYR. Phone 07 4783 5988

BURDEKIN GATEWAY VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Railway Avenue, HOME HILL. Phone 07 4782 8241 For more information on the Burdekin, visit www.burdekin.qld.gov.au or find us on facebook www.facebook.com/burdekintourism

PALUMA

Paluma Range National Park is at the southern end of the World Heritage Wet Tropics. Although this area was settled approximately 120 years ago, its scenic beauty ensured its national park status. Today, Paluma Range National Park and the mountain settlements of Paluma and Hidden Valley are popular retreats which have never been exploited or overdeveloped.

About 60kms north of Townsville, or 40kms south of Ingham, the Mt Spec Road leaves the Bruce Highway and turns inland towards the beautiful mountains of the Paluma Ranges. Separating the National Park from the Mt Spec State Forest, this scenic road is a monument to human effort as it was built mostly by hand during the 1930’s Great Depression.

Along the winding mountain road can be found examples of original stonework and ingenuity, the most popular of which is the photogenic stone bridge over Little Crystal Creek 7kms from the bottom of the range. This historical arch was the first of its kind in Queensland and spans the icy cold crystal clear water rushing down the gorge. The clear pools, huge granite boulders and lush rainforest vegetation make

Little Crystal Creek a popular stopover on the way up to the village of Paluma. Picnic, BBQ and toilet facilities are available both at Little Crystal Creek and at Paluma. Walking tracks, some of which provide stunning views, wind through the National Park.

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. Access is via a 12 kilometres gravel road just past the Paluma township. There are weather proof shelters for day use with barbecues and camping sites for longer stays. All rubbish taken in must be removed, and no domestic animals are allowed.

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.

intownsville.com.au | 69

BALGAL BEACH & ROLLINGSTONE

70 | March - August 2016

Frosty Mango RD ACH 12km P BE CAM HEN

Fishermans Landing Stinger Enclosure (Nov - May)

Boat Ramp & Pontoon

Balgal Beach Holiday Units

BP

Rollingstone Hotel

ACHERON DRV

BALGAL BE

General Store

ACH RD

Tummies Coffee Shop

Studio 26

PDE

BALGAL BEACH MARKETS Venue: Fishermans Landing, Balgal Beach Time: Every first and third Saturday of the month Fruit & veges, homemade cakes, preserves, arts & crafts, plants, homemade soaps, lotions & oils, books and bric-a-brac.

Phone: 4770 7227

Rollingstone Beach Caravan Resort

OCEAN

A beachside community with plenty to offer, Balgal Beach is the ideal location for a day trip or holiday.

The beach has many attractions and includes a swimming enclosure during marine stinger season from November to May, licensed café and store, coffee shop, picnic/BBQ areas and camping facilities. The BP Service Station, located on the Bruce Highway at Rollingstone, also provides fuel, tourist information, cappuccinos and a selection of homemade food. The beach and creek are great fishing spots and there are excellent boat ramp facilities available and pontoon.

The natural bush surrounds cater for the native wildlife or bird watching enthusiast. Other popular activities and attractions in the area include a nine-hole golf course, lawn bowls, war memorials, and network of interpretive historic signage that showcases the area’s colourful history. Vincent ‘Bushy’ Parker Park, a well shaded designated camping area located right next to a scenic freshwater creek, is ideal for swimming.

A variety of accommodation is available, including beachfront holiday units and cottages, a caravan park and the Rollingstone Hotel which is located on the Bruce Highway. Designated free vehicle and tent camping is available for a maximum of 48 hours.

OC

EA

MYSTIC AVE

NP

DE

Golf Course

A1 To CAIRNS 300km

To TOWNSVILLE CBD 50km

Tourism and Events Queensland

Crystal Creek

4770 7296

intownsville.com.au | 71

HINCHINBROOK SHIRE

Ingham, Forrest Beach, Halifax, Lucinda, Taylors Beach n Wallama

Welcome to Hinchinbrook a place of natural beauty, from unspoilt sandy beaches to lush tropical rainforests. Hinchinbrook is the southern gateway to the Wet Tropics World Heritage-listed rainforests of Tropical North Queensland.

Nestled in the Herbert River Valley the main town in Hinchinbrook is Ingham, which is roughly one hour drive north of Townsville and three hours drive south of Cairns.

Ingham is known for its strong Italian heritage, with terrific delicatessens and restaurants to indulge your taste buds in. The Italian culture is celebrated annually at the Australian Italian Festival.

Hinchinbrook is home to the charming coastal townships of Forrest Beach, Lucinda and Taylors Beach where you can enjoy a fishing paradise. The beaches offer a wide range of holiday parks and accommodation plus stinger resistant nets. All are encased by the beautiful Palm Island Group including Orpheus Island National Park.

Hinchinbrook has a colourful multi cultural and agricultural history which is evident in the district attractions, events and architecture. To experience this history yourself, must see attractions include Herbert River Museum, Noorla Heritage Resort, New Ingham Cemetery with its spectacular Italian Mausoleums, Mungalla Aboriginal Tours and Lee’s Hotel – The Original Pub With No Beer.

TYTO Be inspired at the award winning, multi dimensional TYTO, located 500m south of Ingham on the Bruce Highway. Tour the Wetlands, home to some 240 species of birds – it’s a birdwatchers paradise with lookouts and hides throughout the extensive walking tracks which allow unique viewing of wildlife in their natural habitat, hundreds of Agile Wallabies have also made the wetlands home, adding to the experience.

Learn amazing facts and play a few games at the Information and Wetlands Centre, lunch in the picturesque parklands, marvel at the latest Regional Art Gallery exhibition or relax in the Library and enjoy free computer access and wi-fi. The library also has a significant Local History collection.

TYTO Parklands, Amphitheatre and Piazza play host to a variety of events, workshops and activities

72 | March - August 2016

Falls

throughout the year, many free to enjoy. While away an hour or a day of artistic, cultural or ecological excellence.

Natural Wonders To the west of the township, at 305 metres, is Wallaman Falls, Australia’s highest sheer drop waterfall. Located 53km west of Ingham Wallaman Falls is a breathtaking sight and can be viewed through a rainbow fringed cloud of mist early in the morning. This is an area of World Heritage listing and home to the cassowary and platypus. Lookouts, bushwalks, freshwater swimming and camping grounds can all be found at this National Park. The walk to the bottom of the Falls is well worth it with care to be taken as it can be quite strenuous and slippery at times. Care must be taken at all times on the road as Cassowaries often wander out and will sometimes have their chicks with them.

To the east of Ingham is Hinchinbrook Island, the world’s largest Island National park. Steeped in mystery and adventure, her cloud covered peaks dominate the skyline. Houseboat hire, boat charters and wilderness cruises are all available from Dungeness to the islands, plus camping and trekking along the Thorsborne Trail. The protected waters of the Hinchinbrook Channel offer anglers 365 days a year fishing opportunities. With the beautiful Hinchinbrook Island National Park as a back drop, the Hinchinbrook Channel is an angler’s paradise.

South of Ingham you will find the Paluma Range National Park, home to Jourama Falls and Mt. Spec recreational areas. Both parks are well known for their fresh water swimming holes, rainforest walks and lush tropical camp grounds. These are all part of the Great Green Way, which is an outstanding coastal and hinterland region between Townsville and Cairns.

TYTO INFORMATION AND WETLANDS CENTRE Corner Bruce Highway and Cooper St, Ingham Open: Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat-Sun 9am - 4pm Phone: 4776 4792 | www.tyto.com.au visitTYTO

Photo Courtesy

of Hinchinbrook

Shire Council.

Tyto Wetlands by John Young Photography

TYTO Regiona l Art Gallery

Anna Currington: The Innocence of a Smile

BE IN SPIR E D

Be inspired at the award winning, multi dimensional TYTO. Tour the Wetlands - home to some 240 species of birds, learn amazing facts and play a few games at the Information and Wetlands Centre, lunch in the picturesque parklands or onsite cafe, marvel at the latest Regional Art Gallery exhibition or relax in the Library and enjoy free wi-fi.

While away an hour or a day of artistic, cultural and ecological excellence.

Just over an easy hour drive north of Townsville on the southern approach to Ingham, the heart of Hinchinbrook.

HINCHINBROOK, NORTH QUEENSLAND Entry via corner Bruce Highway & Cooper St or 73 - 75 McIlwraith Street Ingham Qld 4850 TYTO is owned and operated by Hinchinbrook Shire Council

TYTO Information & Wetlands Centre | P 4776 4792 TYTO Conference Centre | P 4776 4726 TYTO Regional Art Gallery | P 4776 4725 Hinchinbrook Shire Library | P 4776 4614

intownsville.com.au | 73

CHARTERS TOWERS & RAVENSWOOD

See, feel and live a world of difference in the Charters Towers region, your gateway to the outback, only 90minutes drive from Queensland’s stunning coastline around Townsville.

Charters Towers - “The World” as it is affectionately known – is big on history and character. Today the pace is a little less hectic than the heady gold rush days with visitors able to explore the rich heritage of Charters Towers in their own time and not a traffic light to be seen! Your first stop should be the Charters Towers Visitor Information Centre staffed with local volunteers who are very keen to point you towards the many attractions and activities on offer and assist you with plenty of accommodation options available.

You will be amazed at the historical significance of the region, its prominence in Australia’s gold mining and military story, the stunning architecture that has been authentically preserved and the thriving lifestyle enjoyed by 9,000 residents in the town area.

On your way, take a step back in time and explore the heritage listed gold mining town of Ravenswood. Only 83km from Charters Towers or 130km from Townsville, you can visit a plethora of historic buildings including two original hotels, the Railway Hotel and the Imperial Hotel, still in full operation. See the historic Court House and discover stories about the people who made Ravenswood. There any many original buildings that still operate - the general store, a church with its own special ghost story, private miners’ cottages and the school buildings, to name a few. Ask

for your Heritage Walking Trails map at the Courthouse or Thorp’s Building and get ready to feel the significant history of this small township come alive as you wander leisurely around the area.

You will be surprised at how much there is to see and do in the Charters Towers region, on guided and selfguided tours discovering the outback beauty of the natural environment and the historical attributes and services in the built environment. So, make sure you allow plenty of time in your itinerary to explore, see, feel and live the hidden secrets that are waiting here for you.

Charters Towers

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OVERLANDER’S WAY

KURANDA CAIRNS GORDONVALE

MAREEBA GULF OF CARPENTARIA WOLLOGORANG

ATHERTON Lyn d

KARUMBA

HELL’S GATE

NORMANTON

BURKETOWN TIRRANNA

Nicholson River

ERN ORY

Savannah Way

1

DOOMADGEE

CROYDON

1

GEORGETOWN

MOUNT SURPRISE Undara 62 Volcanic NP

Great Tropical Drive

Matilda Highway

THE LYND JUNCTION

83

er t Riv hard Leich

AVON DOWNS POLICE STATION

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Ran

kin R

ive r

GREENVALE

ers

CLONCURRY A2

JULIA CREEK

Porcupine Gorge NP

RICHMOND HUGHENDEN

McKINLAY

Paluma State Forest

TOWNSVILLE AYR

A6

MACROSSAN

Riv er

A2

DAJARRA

Magnetic Island

ive r

CHARTERS TOWERS

QUAMBY

A6

GREAT BARRIER REEF MARINE PARK

WOODSTOCK

QUEENSLAND Flin d

A1 INGHAM

63

83

MOUNT ISA

Bur dek in R

Lumholtz NP Herber t River

BURKE AND WILLS ROADHOUSE

CAMOOWEAL

Overlander’s Way

INNISFAIL

RAVENSHOE

Riv er

PRAIRIE

HOMESTEAD White Mountains NP TORRENS CREEK

Bur dek in R

A1 RAVENSWOOD

ive r

COLLINSVILLE Lake Dalrymple

MOUNT COOLON

KYNUNA

The Overlander’s Way is rich with authentic heritage experiences that are linked together.

MIDDLETON The attractions explore the legends, characters, WINTON colourful tales and rich landscapes of our fascinating past, in a modern, interactive way.

NORTH QUEENSLAND GATEWAY, TOWNSVILLE The Discover Tropical Queensland Gallery at Townsville Museum of Tropical Queensland provides visitors to the region with a good introduction to life in the tropics, telling the stories of North Queensland through powerful interactive displays.

JULIA CREEK VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE While you are at the Centre take a look at the mounted Julia Creek Dunnart (Sminthopsis douglasi) Display. The Dunnart is a small nocturnal marsupial thought to be extinct until 1992. It is a feisty yet endearing endangered species.

CHARTERS TOWERS – “GHOSTS OF GOLD” More than a century ago, the discovery of gold triggered a massive gold rush to Charters Towers, which grew to become the second largest city in Queensland.

MARY KATHLEEN MEMORIAL PARK AND MUSEUM, CLONCURRY Mary Kathleen Memorial Park and Museum houses history and memorabilia of Cloncurry, Mary Kathleen and the surrounding district.

FLINDERS DISCOVERY CENTRE, HUGHENDEN Flinders Discovery Centre is home to Hughie, the skeletal Muttaburrasaurus, surrounded by a large fossil and gem display of international standards.

OUTBACK AT ISA, MOUNT ISA The exciting world of mining is a highlight of the Hard Times Mine, Outback at Isa. Guided tours descend the 1.2km of working mines directly below the tourist precinct.

KRONOSAURUS KORNER, RICHMOND Discover the fascinating pre-historic evidence of when Richmond was once part of the ancient inland sea.

BATTERY HILL MINING CENTRE, TENNANT CREEK At Battery Hill overlooking the township, the 1930’s site echoes the soul and spirit of the miners and is named after the original working ten-head stamp battery.

intownsville.com.au | 75

HUGHENDEN

FLINDERS DISCOVERY CENTRE, HUGHENDEN

F irssctovSerty ane pd Wsonder to Di

Meet ‘Hughie’ a life sized skeletal Muttaburrasaurus Porcupine Gorge light and sound show Shearing the Stragglers Exquisite fossil & gem display Excellent souvenir shop Local and regional tourist information Open 7 days 9.00am - 5.00pm (Closed some public holidays) 37 Gray Street, Hughenden Qld 4821 P: (07) 4741 2970 E: info@flinders.qld.gov.au www.visithughenden.com.au

Welcome to the Flinders Shire, covering an area of 41,632km2. Hughenden is the main business centre for the shire which also encompasses the smaller communities of Prairie, Torrens Creek and Stamford..

Hughenden is situated on the banks of the Flinders River, Queensland’s longest river. Hughenden has direct road access to a number of major centres and tourist attractions within the region. The Flinders Highway runs through Hughenden connecting to Townsville (376km) in the east and Mount Isa (519km) in the west, with a southern sealed road access via the Dinosaur Way to Winton and Longreach.

For those wanting to travel north there is the Kennedy Developmental Road, a gravel and bitumen sealed road to the Atherton Tablelands and Cairns.

The Flinders Shire is predominantly a grazing area, with some emerging irrigation pockets. North of the Flinders River is predominately red and black volcanic basalt country and to the south of Hughenden is black soil downs country with open natural grasslands.

JULIA CREEK Julia Creek is located 650km west of Townsville on the route to the Northern Territory known as the Overlander’s Way. The first stop to discover the character, history and the land is the accredited Visitor Information Centre known as ‘At the Creek’ located on the corner of Burke and Julia Streets.

The latest attraction at the centre ‘Beneath the Creek’ provides a hands-on interactive journey through the many facets of life in the McKinlay Shire. Make sure you’re there for the daily dunnart feedings. This attraction offers a great selection of travel information brochures, maps and an array of souvenirs that can only be found in Julia Creek.

Staffed by friendly locals, the centre provides information on where to eat, stay and shop or to assist you with a travel booking. Julia Creek has a free camping area for self-sufficient RVs for 96 hours.

From April to September, the Julia Creek Caravan Park hosts Bush Dinners every Monday night. All are welcome to attend this unforgettable meal beneath a blanket of stars.

76 | Sept. 2015 - Feb. 2016

‘At the Creek’ Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre 34 Burke St, JULIA CREEK, Ph: 07 4746 7690 E: tourism@mckinlay.qld.gov.au www.atthecreek.com.au Follow us on Facebook JuliaCreekVisitorInformationCentre Follow us on Instgram @juliacreekqld

MATILDA HIGHWAY COOKTOWN

GULF OF CARPENTARIA CAIRNS

KURUMBA Savannah Way

ATHERTON INNISFAIL

GREAT BARRIER REEF MARINE PARK

1 1

Great Tropical Drive

INGHAM

TOWNSVILLE

BURKE AND WILLS JUNCTION 83

A2

CHARTERS TOWERS QUAMBY JULIA CREEK

MOUNT ISA

CLONCURRY A2

Stretching more than 1700 kilometres from Cunamulla to Karumba on the Gulf of Carpentaria, the Matilda Highway is custom-made for travellers keen for a taste of the outback, its unique heritage, legendary hospitality and friendliness.

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NORMANTON

BOWEN

Overlander’s Way

A6

A1

HUGHENDEN

MCKINLAY

MACKAY

KYNUNA

Matilda Highway WINTON CLERMONT

LONGREACH

ILFRACOMBE

ROCKHAMPTON

BARCALDINE

EMERALD

GLADSTONE

BLACKALL

QUEENSLAND

TAMBO

BUNDABERG

A1 AUGATHELLA

CHARLEVILLE

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

GYMPIE ROMA

CHINCHILLA

TOOWOOMBA

CUNNAMULLA

BRISBANE

ST GEORGE TWEED HEADS GOONDIWINDI

The Matilda passes through an ever-changing landscape - from undulating Mulga plains in the south to open Mitchell grass plains and desert uplands in the central west and gulf plains in the north. There are picturesque billabongs and vast inland river systems, rugged gorges and escarpments and many scenic national parks.

The towns along the highway offer varied experiences for visitors, each with their own story and history as varied as the colourful Outback characters you’ll encounter along the way. You’ll also find authentic heritage attractions along the way.

CLONCURRY In Cloncurry, home of the Royal Flying Doctor (RFDS) at John Flynn Place, the Portrait of Cloncurry, a visitor orientation exhibition, will present an understanding of the history, heritage and local characters of this town that prides itself as the ‘Friendly Heart of the Great North West’.

WINTON In nearby Winton, the Waltzing Matilda Centre plays host to the ghost of Banjo Paterson and the legend surrounding the creation of a national song. South of Kynuna, explore the Combo Waterhole Conservation Park, believed to have inspired Banjo Paterson to write Waltzing Matilda. A 40 minute return walk from the car park leads to picturesque waterholes on the Diamantina River, perfect for a picnic. Also well worth the one hour detour is a visit to the Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways, believed to be the world’s only preserved dinosaur stampede.

LONGREACH The Qantas Founders’ Outback Museum traces the history of our national airline and its very important links to the Outback and its towns. The new building, which links to the original heritage-listed 1922 Qantas Hangar, houses the museum, theatrette and exhibition hall, a visitor information centre and restaurant. The displays eloquently tell the inspirational stories of an Australian business success and the people that made it happen.

For more information go to: www.queensland.com/Explore-Queensland/ Outback-Queensland or see the nearest Information Centre.

intownsville.com.au | 77

It’s what lies beneath

most awe-inspiring marine creatures of all time and investigate Australia’s premier marine fossil museum, Kronosaurus Korner.

The Great Inland Sea which once covered the Richmond landscape with 40 metres of water, has left a story of marine creatures and the Cretaceous period of the earth’s evolution.

Visiting Richmond is an unforgettable, prehistoric adventure where you can go fossil hunting for some of the

While in Richmond, don’t miss year round Barramundi fishing on Lake Fred Tritton, the Bush Tucker Garden and beautiful lakeside and historic town walks.

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For the latest on Richmond, including the Richmond Outback Fossil Fest visit

www.kronosauruskorner.com.au 1300 KRONOK | enquiries@kronosauruskorner.com.au

Richmond Lakeview Caravan Park is the clean, friendly park with the

“Million Dollar View” • Clean amenities incl disabled and baby facilities • Free BBQ • Camp Kitchen • Laundry • 27 drive thru sites • 13 grassed camping areas • Budget rooms • Self Contained Cabins & Villas • Pets conditional

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