Tripping Magazine

REDISCOVER MAGNETIC ISLAND

Just 25 minutes from Townsville via Sealink, Magnetic Islands natural beauty meets luxury oceanfront accommodation at the Grand Mercure Apartments - One Bright Point. Escape to the serenity of a Great Barrier Reef Island right on your doorstep with our great value local packages.

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ELEMENTA WHITSUNDAYS

Discover the essence of tranquillity at Elementa Whitsundays, where nature meets architectural finesse. The panoramic residences embody sustainable luxury, offering bespoke designs amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Whitsundays, ensuring a rejuvenating escape unlike any other.

TOWNSVILLE AND MAGNETIC ISLAND

Embark on a tropical adventure in Townsville and Magnetic Island, where vibrant reefs meet lush rainforests. Dive into the region's rich marine life, hike through scenic trails, and bask in the laid-back island lifestyle for an unforgettable North Queensland getaway.

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BEAUTIFUL BURDEKIN

Explore the hidden gems of the Burdekin region for an authentic North Queensland experience. Unwind along the serene coastline, dive into local history, and indulge in the region's bountiful produce for a relaxing and enriching tropical escape.

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THE WHITSUNDAYS

A tropical paradise where azure waters meet lush landscapes, welcome to the Whitsundays. Immerse yourself in island serenity, stroll along Bowen’s pristine beaches, and savour the freshest seafood in Airlie, making for an unforgettable adventure.

MAGICAL MACKAY

From stunning beaches where Wallabies bound to lush hinterlands hiding refreshing waterfalls, Mackay offers a diverse escape. Delight in outdoor adventures, explore charming local trails, and bask in the laid-back coastal lifestyle during your tropical retreat.

A new era of luxury stays, events and exclusivity begins in Airlie Beach in 2024

Breathtaking views. Luxury accommodation. A brand new state of the art venue designed with extraordinary events in mind... anda craft distillery. All this with complete privacy and exclusivity just a stone’s throw from the heart of Airlie Beach. This is a game-changer.

Say hello to Elementa Whitsundays, your ultimate new event destination opening its doors in April, and taking bookings for 2024 + 2025 now.

Stay together - sleep 5 2 in style

With a collection of nine award-winning luxury homes, this is a place to bring people together for your special event and create lifelong memories. Organising accommodation for large groups has never been easier, with Elementa’s stylishly-appointed residences providing the perfect natural backdrop to connect as a group. Soak up the serenity in the mineral inifnity pool, explore Elementa’s rare tropical gardens, and venture down to your own private restaurant and bar, just footsteps away from your front door.

The Distillery - crafting elegance

Specialising in producing craft gin, white spirits and non-alcoholic distillations infused with a symphony of locally-sourced botanicals, Elementa’s artisan distillery adds an unrivalled dimension to its events. Hosts of events will have the unique opportunity to create their own signature gin or vodka infusion to be enjoyed during celebrations or taken home as souvenirs, as well as a chance to learn the craft with interactive distillation workshops.

World-class events - stay tuned...

In exciting news for locals, Elementa Whitsundays is set to host a series of public events put on by its world-class events team. From food festivals to live music and comedy, and roving degustations to wellness gatherings, this will be a special place for one and all to make memories that last a lifetime.

With a grand opening of the events space pencilled for late April, bookings for 2024 + 2025 are starting to fill, enquire now.

Your own private paradise

With your own exclusive restaurant, rooftop bar and expansive lawn all with uniterrupted views of the Coral Sea, opportunities abound to create your perfect private gathering at Elementa. Whether it’s a destination wedding, corporate retreat, or bespoke celebration - Elementa’s brand new events venue together with its luxury accommodation can all be exclusively yours. Designed to immerse its guests in the natural beauty of the Whitsundays, the venue oozes sophistication, and is decked out with the latest audio visual technology. Not only that, Elementa’s mountain-side perch affords guests a refreshing tropical breeze, the ideal elevated position to enjoy the elements of the Whitsundays in comfort.

Edible Whitsunday wonders

Elementa’s food and beverage offerings will celebrate an incredibly rich tapestry of produce from the Whitsundays region, some ingredients sourced as locally as the Elementa garden! In an innovative collaboration between Elementa and the finest local chefs, the menu will highlight the abundant flavours of the region, as well as surprise and delight with epicly creative food stations that have to be seen to be believed.

The Hub Of Tropical North Queensland TOWNSVILLE

DISCOVER THE INDIGENOUS CULTURE

Prepare to be introduced to 45,000 years of Nywaigi Aboriginal Culture as Mungalla Aboriginal Tours lead you through the grand Mungalla Station homestead. Hear their stories and learn to throw a boomerang or spear. Then board the bus for a short trip to the original homestead site where you’ll be introduced to Irish settler James Cassady and his family who were the first European settlers on Mungalla and advocated for Aboriginal people, allowing their ancestors to remain on their traditional lands. Hear the pioneering stories of these settlers and let your thoughts drift back in time and consider the glory of old Mungalla as you view the remnants of the original Mungalla site. With plenty more to see and do on at Mungalla Station homestead, the Nywaigi traditional owners will lead you through an experience that will remain with you long after you leave.

VISIT LAKE ROSS

Storing over 200,000 million litres of water, Lake Ross supplies up to 80 per cent of the region's potable water supply. The dam wall is the longest in the Southern Hemisphere, stretching 8.3 kilometres across the Ross River floodplain, and is something to admire. Lake Ross features viewing platforms and picnic and barbecue settings, providing excellent views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. It is also an excellent location to meet some of the local wildlife including birds and rock wallabies.

Nestled along the captivating north coast, Townsville beckons with its blend of tropical allure and urban charm. This vibrant city and its splendid surroundings offers an enchanting gateway to unforgettable adventures, cultural treasures and boundless natural wonders.

CHASE WATERFALLS

A couple of hours north of Townsville, Australia's highest permanent single drop waterfall, Wallaman Falls, stands tall. Part of the traditional lands of the Warrgamay People, who have a spiritual connection to this sacred place, Wallaman Falls is nestled within the Girringun National Park. Barely a few steps from the car park and you’ll find yourself at the lookout staring across at this behemoth of cascading water. A towering 268 metres tall, Wallaman Falls is fed by Stony Creek and flows all year round, although wet season (November to April) is when the Falls are at their strongest and loudest.

CLIMB MOUNT STUART

Take in all of Townsville and its surrounds with a visit to Mount Stuart. Providing views overlooking the entire city and across to Magnetic Island and Cleveland Bay, Mount Stuart is a great way for visitors to get their bearings before further exploring Townsville further. Walk, run, ride or drive to the top of the 9km road, but if you plan to tackle it by foot ensure you have a good level of fitness and plenty of water as it is a steep climb in areas. Once you reach the top of Mount Stuart, enjoy the breezes, relax with a picnic, take in the views or further explore the short bush walks around the area.

What’s On In Townsville

NRL All Stars 2024

Friday, February 16

Queensland Country Bank Stadium

The NRL Harvey Norman All Stars return to Queensland Country Bank Stadium! Be there as the best Indigenous and Māori talent come together in the ultimate celebration of culture and showcase of pride. With Men’s, Women’s, plus a touch football match taking place, there is no better way to kickstart the NRL season.

The Addams Family: The Musical Comedy

Thursday, March 14 to Sunday, March 17

Townsville Civic Theatre

Get ready to snap your fingers and prepare yourself for the spooktacular experience of the year as The Addams Family comes to life at the Townsville Civic Theatre. Presented by North Queensland Opera and Music Theatre, The Addams Family: The Musical Comedy is a comical feast that embraces the wackiness in every family while paying homage to the beloved characters from the original TV series. From Wednesday to Thing and everyone in between, this hilariously ghoulish musical promises an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, memorable characters and a celebration of the wonderfully strange. Created by the writers of multi award-winning hit musical Jersey Boys, with music and lyrics by Tony Awardnominated Andrew Lippa, this is a show not to be missed! The Addams Family: The Musical Comedy is coming to the Townsville Civic Theatre for ONE WEEK ONLY!

P!NK Summer Carnival 2024

Friday, March 22 and Saturday, March 23

Queensland Country Bank Stadium

She has smashed tour records, won Grammys and sold over 60 million album equivalents worldwide and now Australia’s number one selling female touring artist is set to visit north Queensland for the first time. P!NK’s massive Summer Carnival 2024 Australia/New Zealand Tour has expanded to Townsville for two massive shows and she’s bringing global superstar and multi- platinum award-winning Australian singer and songwriter, Tones And I for the ride. They’re comin’ up, so you’d better get this party started!

The Magic Of MAGNETIC ISLAND

TAKE A HIKE

Take advantage of Magnetic Island's scenic landscapes by exploring its diverse hiking trails. Trek through the diverse landscapes of the national park, offering various trails suitable for all levels of fitness. Hike to vantage points like Forts Walk to witness breathtaking views of the island and spot native wildlife, including koalas in their natural habitat.

RELAX ON MAGNETIC ISLAND’S STUNNING BEACHES

Enjoy the island’s pristine beaches like Alma Bay, Horseshoe Bay and Picnic Bay. Swim in crystal-clear waters, bask in the sun or indulge in water sports like snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding.

ENCOUNTER WILDLIFE AT SELINA

Get up close and personal with Australian wildlife at the Selina Koala Park. You’ll get the chance to interact and learn about turtles, pythons, wombats, lizards, crocodiles and Magnetic Island’s iconic koalas. Selina also offers a truly unique Breakfast with Koalas experience.

SNORKEL THE SNORKEL TRAILS

Embark on a snorkelling or diving adventure to explore the wonders of the underwater. Witness vibrant coral gardens, marine life and diverse underwater ecosystems at the Nelly and Geoffrey Bay Snorkel Trails. Other places to dive and snorkel include Florence Bay, Arthur Bay, Alma Bay, under the jetty in Picnic Bay and at Bright Point.

DISCOVER THE HISTORY

Delve into the island’s history by exploring World War II forts on the Forts Walk where you’ll learn about the island’s military past while enjoying panoramic views across the coastline. You can also step into the Island’s colourful past by visiting the Magnetic Museum.

Known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife and captivating activities, Magnetic Island is a north Queensland gem well worth exploring. Off the coast of Townsville rests a haven for adventurers, nature enthusiasts and those simply looking to relax on the beach.

Magnetic Island is easily accessible from Townsville, with both Magnetic Island Ferries and Sealink ensuring a safe and timely journey. Magnetic Island Ferries will get you and your vehicle to the island within 40 minutes, allowing you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. The Sealink passenger ferry is an easy and convenient alternative and takes the hassle out of organising your island adventure by offering ferry deals and tour packages ensuring you get the most out of your island escape.

Whether your planning a day trip or a multi-day stay, read on to discover some of the top things to do on Magnetic Island.

PICNIC AT ARTHUR BAY

Pack a picnic and spend a day at Arthur Bay, one of Magnetic Island’s most secluded beaches. Surrounded by lush vegetation and calm waters, it’s an ideal escape from the bustling tourist areas and offers the perfect spot for a quiet day at the beach.

GO ON A FISHING ADVENTURE

Join a fishing charter and try your luck at catching some of the region’s iconic fish species. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, there are options for everyone.

VISIT THE MAGNETIC ISLAND MARKETS

Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the markets held at Horseshoe Bay every Sunday. Jewellery, clothing, art, food and an assortment of treasures are all available at the markets where you’ll meet friendly locals and visitors alike.

INDULGE IN LOCAL CUISINE

Sample culinary delights at various cafes and restaurants across the island. From fresh seafood to international cuisines, there’s something to suit every palate.

KAYAK THROUGH MAGNETIC ISLAND’S MANGROVES

Explore the island’s mangrove ecosystems by kayaking through the peaceful waters. Keep an eye out for unique bird species and marine life in this tranquil environment.

ATTEND MAGNETIC ISLAND’S VIBRANT EVENTS

Check the island’s event calendar for festivals, live music and cultural events. Join in the festivities and immerse yourself in the island’s lively atmosphere.

WONDER AT WATERFALLS

Wet season is the perfect time to get off the beaten track and explore this island’s waterfalls which can be found across Five Beach Bay, Arcadia, West Point and Nelly Bay.

The Beautiful Burdekin

Nestled in Queensland’s tropical north Queensland, the Burdekin region bewitches visitors with its lush landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. From the emerald fields of sugarcane to the magnetic allure of the Burdekin Bridge, this destination beckons explorers to uncover a treasure trove of natural wonders and vibrant experiences.

CLIMB MOUNT INKERMAN

Just a short 10 minute drive south of Home Hill, Mount Inkerman offers breathtaking panoramic views across the cane fields and paddocks of the Burdekin region. Experience the Burdekin's rich agricultural land and iconic Burdekin River from the district's best vantage point.

The Rotary lookout can be accessed via a sealed road up the mountain or via the Mount Inkerman Nature Trail, a well maintained but moderately challenging bushwalk that will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. Atop the mountain you’ll discover a wealth of information on display about the significance to local indigenous tribes, BBQ facilities, picnic area, covered viewing decks, toilets and convenient parking.

GO BIRDWATCHING

With a combination of scattered lagoons and expansive bushland, the Burdekin is home to a wide variety of birdlife, making it a truly unique location for twitchers of all levels of experience. Pack the binoculars, camera and hat and go on an expedition of your own to one of the many birdwatching platforms, bird hides or habitats and enjoy a day in the outdoors while witnessing these curious creatures. Hot spots include Lilliesmere Lagoon, Nelson’s Lagoon, Groper Creek, Horseshoe Lagoon and Wongaloo/Cromarty Wetland.

DISCOVER THE HISTORY

From the historic architecture found throughout Ayr to the World War II history of Charlie’s Hill, the Burdekin was built on stories and there are plenty of opportunities for you to uncover them. The Gateway Visitor Information Centre, the former Home Hill Railway Station, tells the story of the Burdekin Bridge, or the ‘Silver Link’ as it is affectionately known. You can find heritage buildings, memorials and monuments throughout the Burdekin, so take some time to learn about the rich history of the region.

WALK ‘THE SILVER LINK’

Did you know the Burdekin Bridge is longer than the Sydney Harbour Bridge? The iconic ‘Silver Link’ not only connects the towns of Ayr and Home Hill but forms a vital transport link between North Queensland and the rest of the state. From the bridge, visitors will experience completely unobstructed views of the mighty Burdekin River. Pull off the highway on the Ayr side heading South, find a park near the stairs and walk up to the bridge access from there where you will find the pedestrian walkway onto the bridge and take on a truly unique Burdekin experience.

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP

Great boutique shopping can be found in the towns of Ayr, Home Hill and Brandon, attracting people who are looking for something unique from all over the region. There is an abundance of specialty stores offering fashion, homewares and gift ideas that you won’t find anywhere else. The streets are scattered with locally owned small businesses, each offering something different and truly unique.

Queens Beach

The longest beach in Bowen, and a must visit on the beaches list, Queens Beach hosts simple pleasures in the northern sleepy village of Queens Beach.

Five kilometres long with completely uninterrupted views, perfect for fishing, sand relaxing, and lazing around. Dotted along the beach, there are barbecues, large and fantastic playgrounds, and Sunday markets every weekend.

Don’t miss the incredible walking and bike paths that allow you to seamlessly cruise along the length of the beach, in the lovely south easterly winds.

Horseshoe Bay

Iconic and infamous in its own right, Horseshoe Bay is elusive and mysterious, only a mere 100 metres

in length, but full of picturesque views of the alluring Coral Sea. Spoilt for choice in Bowen, Horseshoe Bay is a locals favourite, with private alcoves of granite and rock, which allow for uninterrupted views of the bay and the waters.

Perfect for a casual swim, for snorkelling and sand relaxing, Horseshoe Bay is also home to fringing reef ecosystems, you can witness the very best of the Great Barrier Reef from a short distance to the beach.

Rose Bay

Quiet and quaint, Rose Bay is spectacular for a slow afternoon at the beach. Small in size, but massive in unforgettable views, Rose Bay offers amazing views of Gloucester Island and Mother Beddock. With a neighbouring park, equipped with barbecues,

picnic tables, and playgrounds, you can be rest assured that you can stay and play for the entire day. The northern end of the beach is also an ideal spot to get your kayak and paddle boards on the water, and with a beautiful fringing reef running along the entire coastline, snorkellers can revel the day away.

Front Beach

Mere seconds away from Bowen’s Main Street, Front Beach is perfectly located for a morning of shopping and an afternoon of soaking up the sun. Often host to a range of community events and functions, Front Beach is also a perfect spot to launch your paddle board, wakeboarding, water skis, and water tubes. And don’t forget the beautiful jetty, which a spectacular vantage point to watch marine life, including turtles and stingrays.

Airlie Beach THINGS TO DO

CANNONVALE BEACH

A locals paradise is Cannonvale Beach. Off the beaten path of tourists, Cannonvale Beach is usually run amok by locals looking for an easy day lazing around the beach.

Not quite 400 metres in length, Cannonvale Beach is north facing with pristine waters, beautiful views of the Coral Sea, with large tidal pools and grassy spots, perfect for an afternoon picnic.

With a stinger net up during the warmer months, feel free to frolic in the waters, at ease and free of stingers.

BICENTENNIAL BOARDWALK

Connecting Airlie Beach, hugging the coast of the Coral Sea, the Bicentennial Boardwalk is a great way to explore Airlie Beach and the Cannonvale Areas.

Stretching four kilometres in length, the Boardwalk offers near 180-degrees of Coral Sea views. Dog friendly and accessible for all travellers, the Boardwalk is perfect at any time of day, but is made extra special with a rising and setting sun, creating a beautiful ambience with a scenic view.

One end of the Boardwalk begins at Cannonvale Beach, and trails past the VMR, through Shingley Beach, around the Coral Sea Marina, and then cuts through to Airlie Beach Foreshore and Lagoon.

AIRLIE BEACH LAGOON

A popular hangout for visitors and locals alike, the Airlie Beach Lagoon is a haven for water loving families. Situated in central Airlie Beach, on the backdrop of the Coral Sea and within seconds from the main hub of Airlie Beach, the Lagoon is a thriving spot to lounge around and enjoy sun, surf, and soft waters.

Manmade and completely free of stingers and other marine life, the Lagoon is open all year round and has a short wading pool, a shallow pool, and a 2-metre-deep pool best suited to young adults and adults.

AIRLIE CREEK TRACK

This scenic and serene walking track is mere minutes from Airlie Beach Foreshore and encapsulates the beauty of the Whitsundays.

Only about 850 metres of walking track, this trail offers some of the best views over Airlie Beach, and with a winding trek through tranquil and serene forestry, the walk to and from the lookout is just as spectacular.

Perfectly suited for almost everyone, the trek is largely simple, and will only take one hour to traipse.

Things To Do

WHITSUNDAYS

CEDAR CREEK FALLS

A hidden gem in the Whitsundays, Cedar Creek Falls is well worth the visit. Tucked away in the cove of lush Greenland and nature park of Conway National Park, Cedar Creek Falls is a breathtaking waterhole.

Worth a visit year-round, Cedar Creek Falls comes alive during the warmer months and after a great rainfall.

With cool fresh water, nestled and smooth in the rock pools of the water hole, laze the day away in serenity.

If you’re up for it, take your way through the national park on the hikes through the forest, revel in the lush and incredible flora and fauna, and let the absolute beauty of the park astound you.

CAPE GLOUCESTER

A bit of local’s secret, Cape Gloucester boasts secluded coves, pristine sandy beaches, beautiful trees and vegetation, and a host of pubs and resorts to kick back at with a beverage and a cool breeze.

Located 50 kilometres from central Airlie Beach, Cape Gloucester acts as a short retreat for locals, eager to escape the hustle and bustle of Airlie Beach. With uninterrupted beach views, the small villages of Hydeaway Bay and Dingo Beach playing host to lovely locals, you can relax the day away, with beachcombing, beach fishing, and sand relaxing.

GOLD WINNER Tour & Transport Operators

GOLD WINNER Tour & Transport Operators

GOLD WINNER Tour & Transport Operators

GOLD WINNER Tour & Transport Operators Elegant, barefoot luxury,

SHUTE HARBOUR

A trip through Shute Harbour is spectacular in its own right. Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of Airlie Beach, Shute Harbour is a hidden alcove of the Whitsundays, a quaint and beautiful village with unforgettable views of the Coral Sea.

Boasting a marina, which is often overlooked by visitors, Shute Harbour is hub for bareboating and fishing, with many charter yachts, day tours and commercial sea operators running their operations through Shute Harbour Marine Terminal. Don’t miss the chance to throw a line off the jetty!

A scenic drive through Shute Harbour boasts beautiful flora and fauna, with plenty of short hiking trails along the walk to break up the day and get back to nature.

LAKE PROSERPINE

Only a short 30-minute drive from Proserpine, Lake Proserpine is a great spot for water sports and freshwater fishing, but not only that, pitch a tent, crack up the barbecue and light a fire in one of the fire pits, and spend quality time with friends and family on the backdrop of classic Aussie camping.

COLLINSVILLE’S COAL FACE EXPERIENCE

A history steeped in coal dust and hardship; Collinsville’s Coal Face Experience is a testament to the extraordinary effort of the young coal miners of Collinsville.

The Coal Face Experience stands as a reminder of the 1954 Collinsville Mine Disaster and shares the lives and stories of the men lost in the disaster. Through videos, audio and images, guests learn the intricacies of the job, the risks and rewards, and the true and realistic life these workers were living.

The second half of the experience covers the evolution of the safety standards and the progression of practices that helped miners stay safe.

A touching display of the coal industry, this experience reminds guests of humanity, of life, and of loss, for a critical industry that plays a big part in Australian history.

Whitehaven Beach. Whitsunday Island.

The best cruise in the Whitsundays. Don’t take our word for it, check out our reviews.

DIVE INTO A CAREER

Venture out into the azure seas and explore the pristine Great Barrier Reef, with Reef Safari’s Divemaster Traineeship. With the opportunity to touch base with the reef, swim amongst the forgiving waters, and become attune with the wider Whitsundays, these Reef Safari Divemaster Traineeships provide an opportunity like no other.

Expertly designed for absolute beginners, this traineeship provides all necessary certificates, qualifications and experience to get divers out into the water in almost no time.

And with Reef Safari covering the cost of all necessary training, trainees benefit from over 80 days at water, working alongside instructors and tourists, experiencing the very best of the Whitsundays, in a way too under-utilised.

“By the end of the 80 days, most trainees leave with over 150 dives under their belt,” explained Georgie Bedford of Reef Safari Diving.

“Five days a week for however long, you get to do the absolute best thing. Some days, you’ll hit the water up to five times.”

Leading snorkelling tours, guiding certified divers, aiding introductory divers and working on deck, trainees are given every opportunity to achieve a complete experience of the industry, with confident and capable supervisors overseeing them at every turn.

And where can trainees go from there?

Once complete, trainees are gifted their Divemaster qualification, certified through Scuba Schools International, and are able to further their training with the Instructor Training Course, which Reef Safari offer afterwards.

“These traineeships are a great opportunity to get in the water, learn on the job and get into the industry,” Georgie explained.

“This is a job that every day is a joy, with visitors and tourists always excited to be on the water, to exploring new areas of the Great Barrier Reef. You’ll never truly work a day in your life.”

To learn more about Reef Safari Diving Divemaster Traineeships, visit reefsafari.com, and complete the Divemaster Traineeship application.

Discover hidden treasures of the East Coast, chartering The Whitsunday Islands.

The Hidden Gem Of The East Coast MACKAY

SPLISH SPLASH

When the mercury starts to climb, Bluewater Lagoon is a paradise for both adults and children alike. Located in the heart of Mackay, Bluewater Lagoon features two massive swimming areas, both of which are connected by an astonishing 1.8-metre waterfall. Those more daring will jump at the opportunity to fly down the 19.5-metre-long water slide. Parents will love the interactive water playground, which will keep the young ones entertained for hours, while they enjoy a coffee at the Bluewater Lagoon Cafe, or cook up a storm on the electric barbecue facilities provided. Entry is free, and Bluewater Lagoon is open from 9 am to 5.45 pm, 7 days a week.

WATERFALL WONDERLAND

For those with a keen sense of adventure, the various walks through Finch Hatton Gorge are a must-do. Located about one hour from Mackay city centre, Finch Hatton Gorge can be found in the heart of the Pioneer Valley. From the car park, visitors can embark on the 2.8km (return) trek to Araluen Falls. The nearby rock pools are a wonderful spot to cool off, and a haven for Mackay locals during the summer. Continue along the trail another 1.4km and you’ll find the Wheel of Fire Cascades, another waterfall with a large rock pool, perfect for a swim. The second part of the walk is more difficult but worth the extra work. During the wet season, make sure to check conditions before you leave, as the area can be subject to flooding. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the conditions, as the rocks can be quite slippery when wet.

Enjoying a splash with the kids on a hot day, taking in spectacular views overlooking the Coral Sea, or enjoying a hike through the rugged landscape of the Pioneer Valley, and watching kangaroos frolic on the beach while the sun rises over the ocean. These are only a select few of the amazing attractions that make Mackay a true hidden gem that is well worth a visit.

SKY MEETS SEA

Lamberts Lookout is a must-see for both tourists and locals alike. Perched high above the Coral Sea, the lookout offers a spectacular view. At sunrise, Lamberts Lookout transforms into a front-row seat for a spectacular celestial performance. As the first rays of light paint the sky in beautiful pastel colours, early visitors are treated to a magical display that marks the beginning of a new day. For those visiting during the cooler months, Lamberts Lookout is the perfect place to spot whales as they begin to migrate to warmer waters.

KANGAROO SUNRISE

50 kilometres northwest of Mackay, nestled along the Queensland coast, Cape Hillsborough beckons with a magnetic allure, inviting travellers to experience a harmonious blend of natural wonders and pristine beaches. As dawn breaks, the iconic kangaroos and wallabies emerge from the lush vegetation to graze on the golden sands, offering an enchanting sunrise spectacle found nowhere else. Cape Hillsborough National Park offers a selection of walking tracks to suit any level of fitness and ability. The Diversity Boardwalk is a fantastic option for those looking for a relaxing stroll through stunning Melaleuca woodland. Andrews Point track is the perfect choice for those seeking stunning ocean views, offering five spectacular lookouts along the route. Once you’ve returned to the day-use area, take the opportunity to enjoy the park’s picnic facilities and enjoy lunch by the ocean.

The waterslide at Bluewater Lagoon. Photo credit: Mackay Isaac Tourism

The view from Lamberts Lookout. Photo credit: Mackay Isaac Tourism

Araluen Falls. Photo Credit: Tourism Queensland

Cape Hillsborough Kangaroos. Photo credit: Tourism Queensland