InTownsville and Magnetic Island Guide September 2019-February 2020

FREE GUIDE

S E PT E M B E R 2 0 1 9 - F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 0 | 5 5

ACCOMMODATION | DINING | ATTRACTIONS | MAPS | ACTIVITIES

TOWNSVILLE

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** Souvenir Ph

m Townsville ek – pick up frorminal 7 days per we Ferry Te d an ion at od accomm 270 470 Phone 0401

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

A1 Bruce Highway – 17km south of Townsville Ph 07 4778 8344 | rangers@billabongsanctuary.com.au

www.billabongsanctuary.com.au

2 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

Photo Tourism and Events Queensland

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 to the south. The resort islands - Magnetic, Orpheus, Hinchinbrook and Bedarra - are all different in character and all offer a unique experience for the holiday maker.

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 to Townsville on a visit or short term stay, like what they see and decide to live here. Little wonder that the Townsville region has one of the highest residential growth rates in Australia. The focal point these days is the wonderful beachfront along The Strand.

Beautiful Magnetic Island is just 25 minutes from the city centre by ferry. Day cruises

WELCOME TO TOWNSVILLE and diving expeditions to the Great Barrier Reef, the Yongala and white water rafting excursions also depart regularly from the city.

There are quiet places of natural beauty, including Mt Elliot National Park, Crystal Creek, Alligator 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 well kept 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

Photo Townsville Events Queensland/ Khy Orchard

CONTENTS

INFORMATION CENTRES 7 TOWNSVILLE LOOKOUTS 11 DINING OUT IN TOWNSVILLE 12 AIMS TOURS 14 PUBS, CLUBS & BARS 18 SHOPPING 20 GREAT OUTDOORS / CARAVAN PARKS 24 TOWN COMMON CONSERVATION PARK 26 MUSEUMS 30 ARMY MUSEUM 31 THE STRAND & THE ROCKPOOL 34 10 THINGS TO DO ON THE STRAND 36 PARKS AND GARDENS 44 CASTLE HILL WALKING TRAILS 46 WHAT’S ON 48 MARKETS 48 TOWNSVILLE ART GALLERY TRAILS 51 ART GALLERIES 52 MAGNETIC ISLAND 54 MUST DO ON THE ISLAND 60 ISLAND WALKS 66 BURDEKIN SHIRE AYR & HOME HILL (SOUTH) 68 PALUMA (NORTH) 69 BALGAL BEACH & ROLLINGSTONE (NORTH) 70 HINCHINBROOK SHIRE (NORTH) 72 OVERLANDER’S WAY (WEST) 74 CHARTERS TOWERS & RAVENSWOOD (WEST) 75 HUGHENDEN (WEST) 76 MATILDA HIGHWAY (WEST) 77 MAPS TOWN COMMON WALKS MAP TOWNSVILLE SURROUNDS MAP TOWNSVILLE SUBURBS MAP TOWNSVILLE CITY MAP CASTLE HILL WALKING TRAILS TOWNSVILLE ART GALLERY TRAIL MAGNETIC ISLAND MAP

28 32 40 42 46 51 54

TIMETABLES FANTASEA TIMETABLE SEALINK TIMETABLE

60 60

PHONE NUMBERS

TAXI 131 008 SUNBUS 4771 9800 EMERGENCY 000 Cover Photos: Neal Saker and various from Tourism and Events Queensland

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 | Mardi Saker Graphics 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 the surrounding 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 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

5 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

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

Photos Tourism and Events Queensland

EXPLORE NORTH QUEENSLAND WITH AVIS Great rates and service on a wide range of vehicles.

Plus earn Qantas Frequent Flyer Points.

A D D A G P S T O Y O U R R E N TA L F O R S E L F - D R I V E T O U R S AV I s . c o m . A u Townsville City (07 ) 47 9 9 2 0 2 2 | Townsville Airport (07 ) 4 762 74 0 0

6 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

INFORMATION CENTRES TOWNSVILLE BULLETIN SQUARE INFORMATION CENTRE Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat-Sun 9am-1pm Phone: 07 4721 3660 Web: www.townsvilleholidays.info

SOUTH

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

Phone: 07 4782 8241 Web: www.burdekintourism.com.au BURDEKIN VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Plantation Park, Ayr Open: Mon-Sun 9am-4pm.

Phone: 07 4783 5988 Web: www.burdekintourism.com.au

WEST

‘AT THE CREEK’ JULIA CREEK VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm (Oct - Mar) Mon - Fri 9am-5pm, Sat & Sun 9am-12noon (April - Sept) Phone: 07 4746 7690 Web: www.atthecreek.com.au CHARTERS TOWERS VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Open: Mon-Sun 9am-5pm Phone: 07 4761 5533 Web: www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au WINTON VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Phone: 1300 665 115 Web: www.experiencewinton.com.au

NORTH

CARDWELL VISITOR & HERITAGE CENTRE Cardwell Bush Telegraph, 53 Victoria St, (Bruce Hwy) Open: Mon-Fri 9am-4.30pm, Sat 9.00am-1pm or other times by appointment, Sun 10am-1pm Phone: 07 4066 2412 Web: www.tropicalcoasttourism.com.au/cardwell INNISFAIL I-VAN ANZAC Memorial Park, cnr Bruce Hwy & Glady Street Open: Mon-Fr 9am-3pm Sat 9am-1pm Phone: 0428 228 962 Web: www.tropicalcoasttourism.com.au/innisfail MISSION BEACH WET TROPICS VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Porter Promenade, Mission Beach Open: Mon-Sat 9am-4.45pm Sun 10am-4pm Phone: 07 4068 7099 Web: www.missionbeachtourism.com TULLY VISITOR & HERITAGE CENTRE Open: Mon-Fri 9am-4.30pm, Sat 9am-1pm Sun 10am-1pm Phone: 07 4068 2288 Web: www.tropicalcoasttourism.com.au/tully TYTO INFORMATION AND WETLANDS CENTRE Corner Bruce Highway and Cooper St, Ingham Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat-Sun 9am-4pm Phone: 4776 4792 Web: www.tyto.com.au

Ignatius Park Hall 384 Ross River Rd, Cranbrook FOR TRANSPORT ASSISTANCE

Friday night 7.30pm Sunday 1.00pm intownsville.com.au | 7

WELCOME TO THE

COWBOYS

LEAGUES CLUB

OFFICIAL HOME OF THE NORTH QUEENSLAND TOYOTA COWBOYS, AND THE CBD’S BEST VALUE DINING!

MULTI AWARD WINNING RESTAURANT OPEN 7 DAYS FOR LUNCH & DINNER

AWARD WINNING ALL DAY DINING OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 9AM TILL LATE

INDOOR/OUTDOOR CHILDREN’S ROOM LIKE NO OTHER IN TOWNSVILLE OPEN 7 DAYS 9AM - 10PM SUPERVISED SESSIONS AVAILABLE

335 FLINDERS ST, TOWNSVILLE | P 4724 8000 | COWBOYSLEAGUES.COM.AU

Award Winning DINING

THE ULTIMATE TAB & LIVE SPORT EXPERIENCE OPEN 7 DAYS 10AM - 2AM

235 OF THE LATEST GAMING MACHINES

AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST SELECTION OF OFFICIAL NORTH QUEENSLAND TOYOTA COWBOYS MERCHANDISE

OPEN 7 DAYS SUN - MON 9AM - 1AM | TUE - SAT 9AM - 2AM 9 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

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

Join our daily d n Feeding aDive Predatortoo.

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

10 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

TURTLE HOSPITAL

Join Reef HQ Aquarium’s Turtle Talk, departing daily at 12 noon 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 Education 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 marine turtle species 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).

Photos Megan MacKinnon

TOWNSVILLE LOOKOUTS

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 the 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 stick figure first seen on the cover of the 1920s Leslie Charteris ‘The Saint’ books.

The Hill’s advantage 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 hillw which also boasts public amenities 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.

Townsville and Cape Cleveland from Castle Hill

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 Where: 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.

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 cafés, 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.

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.

Photo Tourism and Events Queensland /Ellie

Bullen

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.

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.

CITY LANE City Lane is Townsville’s first creative laneway precinct on Flinders Street where you can drink, dine & discover all within one of the 6 unique bars and restaurants or in the shared outdoor communal space. Choose from Sushi, Italian, Mexican, Tapas, Americana & a clean eating café. Venues host regular live entertainment and have unique function spaces for special events.

JOIN US

ON THE DECK AT THE TOWNSVILLE YACHT CLUB

Waterfront dining 7 days a week for lunch & dinner.

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

Become a member today to enjoy great benefits.

12 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

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

WWW.TOWNSVILLEYACHTCLUB.COM.AU

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Photos Tourism and Event s Queensland

Photo Tourism and Events Queensland

Reef HQ Townsville

Experience the BEST of the Central Section of the Great Barrier Reef with Adrenalin Snorkel & Dive Family owned and operated, Adrenalin Snorkel & Dive is Townsville’s longest-established marine tour operator with over 30 years of experience.

With three boats servicing the region, Adrenalin Snorkel & Dive is well-equipped to take guests on day trips or liveaboards. Day boats MV Endorphin and MV Adrenalin are customfitted for trips to the reef and Yongala wreck.

The liveaboard vessel MV SeaEsta has airconditioned cabins and many features that is guaranteed to make your trip at sea memorable.

Adrenalin Snorkel & Dive operate daily scheduled trips to the Great Barrier Reef. Dive into the crystal clear blue waters at the outer reefs and swim amongst colourful coral gardens with thousands of tropical fish. They also run day trips to the world-famous Yongala wreck, consistently voted Australia’s BEST dive.

If you are looking for the ultimate reef and wreck expedition, then Adrenalin Snorkel & Dive have just the thing for you. Their monthly scheduled liveaboard will take you to places such as Keeper Reef, Wheeler Reef, Davies Reef and

the Yongala wreck. Try drift diving at Wheeler Reef or go deep diving at Peacock Bommie on Davies Reef. Finish off the trip with two early morning wreck dives at the Yongala, and watch the transition of the underwater world from night to day unfold before your eyes.

Adrenalin Snorkel & Dive also offer a wide range of PADI courses to get you started on your scuba diving journey. Their instructors are knowledgeable and passionate and their class sizes are kept small to ensure plenty of attention for you. The best thing is that they offer flexible course options, meaning you can make the course fit into your schedule!

If you are looking for something a little more private Adrenalin can also provide whole boat charters from three hours to as long as three weeks! Charter one of their boats for a private cruise around Magnetic Island whilst you sip on wine and snack on canapes and swim at the more secluded bays of the island. Whatever your snorkelling or scuba diving need is, Adrenalin Snorkel & Dive can definitely provide!

intownsville.com.au | 17

PUBS, CLUBS & BARS AUSTRALIAN HOTEL

CASA LOUNGE BAR

HERBERT HOTEL

SHAW & CO. City Lane, 383 Flinders St 07 4721 0585

BANK NITECLUB

COMMONWEALTH HOTEL

HERITAGE BAR

137 Flinders St East 07 4771 2799

SHOREHOUSE 118 The Strand, North Ward 07 4724 0520

HERMIT PARK HOTEL

SOVEREIGN HOTEL

11 Palmer Street 07 4722 6999

410 Flinders St East 07 4721 3332 BELLEVUE HOTEL

17 Allen St 07 4772 4265 BOHLE BARN

Cnr Shaw Rd & Bruce Hwy, Bohle 07 4774 6322 BROTHERS LEAGUES CLUB

14 Golf Links Drv 07 4773 8000 BULLYS

108 Flinders St East 07 4771 5647 CACTUS JACK’S SALOON

237 Flinders St East 07 4721 5705

145 Flinders St East 07 4771 2173 46 Allen St 07 4771 4215

COWBOYS LEAGUES CLUB

335 Flinders St 07 4724 5888

DALRYMPLE HOTEL

310 Bayswater Drv, Garbutt 07 4779 6344 DONNA BIONDA

City Lane, 383 Flinders St 07 4771 2245 EXCHANGE HOTEL

151 Flinders St East 07 4771 3335

FLYNNS IRISH BAR

Flinders St East 07 4721 1655

102 Sturt St 07 4771 2641

100 Charters Towers Rd 07 4721 4143 HOTEL ALLEN

Gregory Street 07 4771 5656 IRISH FINNEGAN’S

Cannon Park Centre, Kirwan 07 4723 7777 THE VILLE 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

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 COURTYARD

City Lane, 383 Flinders St 07 4772 2302 THE SUN HOTEL

6 Ross River Rd, Mundingburra 07 4779 5233 THE TAPHOUSE TOWNSVILLE

194 Flinders St East 07 4772 0900

City Lane, 383 Flinders St 07 4772 2301

NEWMARKET HOTEL

THE WILD GOOSE BREWS & CHEWS

499 Flinders St West 07 4721 1377

RAMBUTAN TOWNSVILLE

113 – 119 Flinders St East 07 4771 6915 ROSS ISLAND HOTEL

137 Flinders St 07 4771 2799

TOM’S TAVERN

Nathan St, Aitkenvale 07 4772 9777

99 Boundary St, Railway Estate 07 4771 4475

TOWNSVILLE RSL

ROYAL HOTEL

VALE HOTEL

SANTA FE GOL

WATERMARK

56 Stagpole St, West End 07 4771 2549 108 Flinders St East SEAVIEW HOTEL

56 The Strand 07 4771 5005

SHAMROCK HOTEL

31 Palmer St 07 4771 4351

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807 Flinders St West 07 4771 2909

139 Charters Towers Rd 07 4759 9500 222 Ross River Rd, Aitkenvale 07 4779 0100 72 The Strand 07 4724 4281 WEST END HOTEL

89 Ingham Rd 07 4771 2872

Ellie B ullen Lauren Bath

Photos Townsville Events Queensland

Townsville Travel Centre BOOK WITH US FOR BEST ADVICE & PRICES

DAY TOURS - FERRY BOOKINGS - REEF TRIPS - DIVING MAGNETIC ISLAND - WHITSUNDAY TOURS + MUCH MORE! 336-338 Flinders St, Townsville +61 74772 5800 www.tropicaltravel.com.au

intownsville.com.au | 19

SHOPPING

Domain Central on Duckworth Street is a large outdoor shopping experience and has much on offer, from fashion to homewares, hardware and cafés with a fitness centre.

Shopping is a popular pastime. Three major shopping centres - Castletown, Stockland Flinders Street in the city heart has shops and Willows - offer shoppers a wide range and attractions that are housed in restored historic buildings dating back to the region’s of stores in airconditioned comfort.

European settlement in the late 19th century.

Being only five minutes from the city centre Be sure to check out the little arcades makes Castletown Shoppingworld a handy in Flinders Street for a unique shopping place to stop and shop, and offers a range experience. of more than eighty stores.

T-Shirt World (located opposite the Brewery Stockland is Townsville’s largest shopping on Flinders Street) has souvenirs, ladies, kids, centre and Townsville’s fashion destination, and menswear, novelty T-Shirts and singlets, with the city’s only Myer and the region’s only hats, thongs, sunglasses and fishing shirts.

H&M. Stockland Nathan Street Centre is Come in and see their huge range of stock. across the road and caters to convenience with something for everyone. shopping with Kmart and Coles. Both shopping centres are located in Aitkenvale Fairfield Central Shopping Centre Fairfield on Ross River Road close to the hospital and Central Shopping Centre is located at Idalia, Townsville just 10 minutes from the CBD. The the central suburbs of Townsville. award winning centre offers Woolworths, The Willows Shopping Centre is a very Kmart and 30+ specialty stores. With a spacious centre with much on offer, with fantastic dining precinct ‘Fairfield Eats’, there Sunland Plaza and Cannon Park across the are plenty of great café and restaurant road, hosting a Cinema and many restaurants options to treat your tastebuds after a big morning of shopping! and shops.

P OPEN!

NEW SHO

• Mens, ladies and kids wear • Souvenirs • Fishing shirts, novelty singlets and T-Shirts

Shop 3, 269 Flinders St, Townsville Phone: 0432 481 089 Photos Tourism and Events Queensland

20 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

intownsville.com.au | 21

WALKS MAP

RENEGADE

Photo Tourism and Events Queensland

MARKET

22 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

Townsville has a rapidly developing handmade and craft industry thanks to it’s monthly Renegade Handmade Market. The Renegade Market began in early 2013 with a small handful of just 16 stalls and has grown into a collection of approximately 80 makers on the 2nd Sunday of each month. The Marian School hall on Hugh Street, Currajong overflows with an amazing assortment of local creatives selling their wares and 100% locally made products.

If you aren’t in Townsville on the 2nd Sunday but you’d like to get some unique Australian made gifts, you can always pop into the Renegade Gift Shop opposite Otto’s Fresh Food Market. When you step inside the Warrina Arcade you will find a hidden gem with amazing pastries, pies and coffee and unique shops. The Renegade Gift Shop is located right near the coffee counter so you can place your order and browse while you wait. Townsville has some fantastic little gems if you just know where to look.

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.

32km from Willows

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OPEN DAILY 9am - 4pm

Hervey Range Rd

Thuringowa Drv

PHONE 07 4778 0199 37 Thornton Gap Rd, Hervey Range www.heritagetearooms.com.au

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Head for the Hills, Taste the History

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.

• Heritage listed split log construction building, built 1865.

• Spacious gardens and walking track.

• Dog Friendly.

Herveys Range

Heritage Tea Rooms 23 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

GREAT OUTDOORS

Wallaman Falls

Photos Tourism and Events Queensland

CARAVAN PARKS & CAMPGROUNDS

CAMPING Alligator Creek Falls

Caravanning 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.

24 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

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 ilwayabove the coastal plains, cloaked in Rahigh tropical rainforest and dissected by numerous Hotel streams, Mount 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

Pihotos Tourism and Events Queensland

©Roslyn Budd (Budd Photography)

Cloudy Creek Walk

k Island

Hinchinbroo

LI MI TE D PR OM * OFF * O * 1 ER CO 0% DE OF BO O :I NT F! ** K N OW OW * !

NS VI LL E

*T&Cs apply

Dog-Friendly Villa Now Available

Your lakeside getaway starts now!

Visit www.securalifestyle.com.au or call to book 07 4725 1577

intownsville.com.au | 25

‘Nippers’ training on The Strand

Photos Tourism and Events Queensland

Sunset from Castle Hill

The Strand Jetty

Tourism and Events Queensland

LI MI TE D PR OM * OFF * O * 1 ER CO 0% DE OF BO O :I F NT ! ** K N OW OW * !

NS VI LL E

*T&Cs apply

Dog-Friendly Studio Now Available

Relax in spacious, tropical surrounds!

Visit www.securalifestyle.com.au or call to book 07 4778 2412

26 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

Photos Tourism and Events Queensland

Railway Hotel, Ravenswood

Creek Dirt n Dust Festival Horse racing during Julia

PET FRIENDLY CABINS AVAILABLE* Fully Self Contained Villas, Ensuite & Budget Units, powered sites available for short and long stays TV Room & Laundry Spacious & well-appointed Camp Kitchen Pool

Alligator Cr eek

*Conditions apply

intownsville.com.au | 27

GETTING THERE AND GETTING AROUND

Townsville Town Common Conservation Park is 6 km north of the Townsville city centre. Vehicle access to the park is via the main entrance on the turn-off from Cape Pallarenda Road, near the Rowes Bay Golf Club. The gate at this entrance is open from 6.30 am to 6.30 pm daily.

Vehicles must remain on Freshwater Lagoon road (see map). Driving is not allowed in all other areas.

Walkers and mountain bike riders can also enter the park from the eastern end of the Lagoon trail, off Cape Pallarenda Road, and from the Shelly Cove trail in Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park.

The Freshwater bird hide and its access track from Freshwater car park are wheelchair accessible.

PARK FEATURES

Known locally as the Town Common, the park is close to the bustling city centre of Townsville and is a great place to enjoy nature and fantastic coastal views.

Visitors can hike across the Many Peaks Range, enjoy expansive island views while riding the Under the Radar or Smedley’s trails or take the trail to the beautiful and secluded Shelly Beach.

Deep-water lagoons, seasonal wetlands, coastal woodlands and sheltered beaches bordered by rocky headlands all feature in this park. Mangrove-lined tributaries of the Bohle River meander across the floodplains that fill each year during the wet summer months.

Up to 280 bird species have been recorded in the area.

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Melaleuca viewing area

Payets To

28 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

Magpie geese, brolgas and many others gather here to feed and nest, particularly as the wetlands dry out and food sources become concentrated in the remaining lagoons.

WALKING AND MOUNTAIN BIKING

The Cape Pallarenda Trails are a network of shared walking and mountain biking trails in the Townsville Town Common and Cape Pallarenda conservation parks.

The trails range from short, easy trails to challenging hikes and cross-country mountain bike rides. Consider your fitness level before undertaking the extended trails.

ESSENTIALS TO BRING

Make sure you bring enough drinking water for your visit, appropriate clothing, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun, insect repellent to avoid mosquitoes and sandflies and rubbish bags, as there are no rubbish bins.

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SHELLY BEACH TRAIL (8.2km return - 4 hrs walking) Moderate - difficult.

Following the edge of a large marine plain, this trail leads through coastal woodland before finishing at the western end of Shelly Beach. Trail users must return the way they came. The northern part of this trail, towards the beach, is soft and sandy, and can be physically demanding.

UNDER THE RADAR TRAIL (UTR) (10.1km return - 5hr walking) Easy. This narrow two-way trail is for cross country mountain biking. At its western end, the trail starts 500m along the Shelly Beach trail and crosses the western and northern slopes of Many Peaks Range. At its eastern end, the trail begins 700 m along the Shelly Cove trail. UTR has rough surfaces and some steep sections. Trail users can return the way they came or may use the other trails and internal park roads to return to their starting point.

SMEDLEY’S TRAIL (6.8km - 3 hrs walking) Moderate. Accessed via a link from UTR (6.6 km from the eastern beginning of UTR) or 2.8 km from the beginning of Shelly Beach trail. This circuit winds around Smedley’s hill taking in panoramic views over the Town Common wetlands, Bohle River and the Coral Sea to the north. It is a challenging but rewarding ride with steep sections, rock obstacles, rock armoured corners and optional B lines that are rated as difficult.

MANY PEAKS TRACK (5.7km - 3 hrs walking ONE WAY) Difficult. Starting at the western end, or 450 m along the eastern end of the Lagoon trail, this challenging walk across Many Peaks Range leads to the summit of Mount Marlow. Some sections of the trail are very steep and there are many steps. In some areas the trail can be indistinct and walkers must follow the orange trail markers. Walkers may return on the same trail or via the Lagoon trail.

LAGOON TRAIL (5.7km - 3 hrs walking ONE WAY) Moderate. Starting at the intersection of Freshwater and Shelly Beach trails or opposite Walter Nesbit Park at the end of Cape Pallarenda Road, this trail follows the edge of Freshwater Lagoon at the southern base of Many Peaks Range. The trail can become boggy after wet weather. Trail users can return the way they came or can walk the Many Peaks track or ride the Under the Radar trail to complete a loop.

FRESHWATER TRAIL (3.6km - 2 hrs walking ONE WAY) Moderate. Starting at the intersection with Shelly Beach and Lagoon trails, or 1.2 km along the eastern end of the Lagoon trail, Freshwater passes through coastal sand dune vegetation, crosses the dam wall of Freshwater Lagoon and provides access to the Freshwater and Jacana bird hides. Trail users can return the way they came or use the Lagoon or Under the Radar trails to complete a loop.

JACANA BIRD HIDE (450m - 30 mins walking ONE WAY) Easy. Access the Jacana bird hide from the Freshwater trail—the turn-off to the hide is 350 m from the Freshwater car park. The track leading to the hide is 100 m long. Overlooking Freshwater Lagoon, the bird hide is a good place to spot nesting and foraging waterbirds. Trail users can return the way they came or continue along the Freshwater trail.

WETLAND WALK (850m - 30 mins walking ONE WAY) Easy. This short walk starts 150 m along the eastern end of the Lagoon trail and meanders through melaleuca forest within a seasonal wetland.

FOREST WALK (1.7km - 1 hr walking) Easy. Starting beside Freshwater Lagoon Road in the southern part of the park, this walk follows the edge of Barramundi Waterhole and is shaded by melaleucas, eucalypts and acacias. In the cooler parts of the day this is a good area for viewing forest birds such as honeyeaters and kingfishers.

intownsville.com.au | 29

MUSEUMS

Museum of Tropical Queensland

The Yongala Gallery, Maritime Museum

ARMY MUSEUM NORTH QUEENSLAND Where: Jezzine Barracks. Kissing Point, Mitchell St, North Ward Open: Wednesday, Friday & Sunday 9am - 1pm (other times by arrangement) Phone: 4721 1495 or 4772 7276 The Army Museum of North Queensland is located within Jezzine Barracks. 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 Colonial times through to the present day.

Entry to the Museum is free but donations are greatly appreciated.

MARITIME MUSEUM Where: Palmer St, South Townsville (Map Ref. 11. Page 43) 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, a boatshed and BBQ area. The original building houses the SS Yongala shipwreck collection and was once the pier master’s office when located at the port. The lighthouse was relocated from Bay Rock and dates from 1886.

MUSEUM OF TROPICAL QUEENSLAND Where: Flinders St East, Townsville (Map Ref 10. Page 43) Open: Daily 9.30am - 5pm (Closed Christmas Day, Good Friday and the morning of Anzac Day, 25 April) Phone: 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

30 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

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 St, West End Open: Wednesday 10am - 2pm, Weekends 1pm - 4pm Entry: $8 Adult, $2 child, $5 Concession Phone: 4771 5873 Web: www.heritagecentre.org.au RAAF TOWNSVILLE MUSEUM Where: Ingham Rd, Garbutt Open: Tuesdays & Thursdays 9am - 12pm and Sundays 10am - 4pm or by appointment phone 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: 27 Barbeler St, Currajong (behind Hugh St. Ambulance Centre) Open: Monday to Friday 9am – 2.30pm 1st & 3rd Sunday of month 1.30pm – 3.30pm Phone: 4775 7838 Email: admin@townsvillemuseum.com.au Web: www.townsvillemuseum.com.au 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.

ARMY MUSEUM NORTH QUEENSLAND

Jezzine Barracks

The Army Museum of North Queensland is located within Jezzine Barracks, Kissing Point in Townsville.

The Museum collects and exhibits memorabilia, objects and stories associated with past and current military units and personnel from North Queensland, including a geographic area between Rockhampton in the south, extending north to Torres Strait and west to the Northern Territory border.

The Collection extends from the establishment of the first defences at Townsville and Thursday Island until the present day. Initially housed in the old Kissing Point Fort, the new Museum has moved to the newly refurbished building at the centre of Jezzine barracks. Showcased within the Museum is a gallery displaying pre-federation Army and a gallery showing more recent conflicts of Vietnam and Korea, and the history of Sir John Lavararck and Lavarack Barracks. A third gallery houses World War I and World War II displays, including the Townsville Honour Boards from both these conflicts.

Come with a picnic lunch and enjoy an amazing day out at the museum. The museum with its amazing historical army collections and beautiful surrounding gardens is a great place for a one day discovery with the family.

LOCATION: Jezzine Barracks, Kissing Point, Townsville CONTACT: Phone/fax 07 4721 1495 or email: army_museum_nq@bigpond.com www.armymuseumnorthqueensland.webs.com ENTRY & OTHER INFO: • Free • Donations are greatly appreciated • The Museum is wheelchair friendly • Parking is available at the front door OPENING HOURS: • Wednesdays, Fridays & Sundays from 9am to 1pm

intownsville.com.au | 31

Ravenshoe

TOWNSVILLE

To CAIRNS & Kuranda

Etty Bay Mourilyan Harbour

A1

Paronella Park

SURROUNDS MAP

INNISFAIL

Australian Sugar Industry Museum

Tully Falls

Japoonvale Cowley Beach 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

Orpheus Island

Hidden Valley Jourama Falls

Halifax Bay

Paluma Frosty Mango

Crystal Creek Paluma Range National Park

Balgal Beach

Rollingstone

Bluewater

Swimming Lookout

Great Palm Island

Palm Islands

Paluma Dam

RIER R E E F GREAT BAR

Silkwood

Camping Hiking Boat Ramp Accredited Information Centre Information

Toolakea Saunders Beach

A1

Bushland Beach

Black River Caravan Park

Magnetic Island

TOWNSVILLE

Piper’s Lookout

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 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

Ravenswood

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

• 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.

further information

• Look for and obey safety signs

13 48 10

• Don’t enter the water when beaches are closed

enquiries@townsville.qld.gov.au

33 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

townsville.qld.gov.au

THE STRAND

Strand W ater Park The Rock Pool

Strand Jetty

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 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 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

Photos Tourism and Events Queensland

& THE ROCK POOL

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 on Wednesdays 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 is a second beach swimming enclosure half way along The Strand, and the Strand Water Park is a favourite family outing.

EXEC DELUXE ROOM + SINGLE

All rooms have spectacular ocean views overlooking the coral sea to Magnetic Island and The Strand.

All rooms airconditioned, cable tv, FREE WIFI, limited cooking facilities, swimming pool and guest laundry.

Take advantage of our Executive Deluxe Corner Suites and Superior View Rooms.

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

aquariusonthebeach.com.au 35 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

10 THINGS TO DO ON THE STRAND

1 COOL OFF IN THE SEA...

7 PARTICIPATE...

2 COOL OFF IN THE POOL...

8 EXPERIENCE...

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

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 at the Townsville Rotary playground.

4 FISH...

Off the Strand Pier, Rock Pool or beach.

5 ENJOY...

The many cafes, gelaterias, 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 2019 - Feb 2020

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

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

9 GET FIT...

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

10 CHALLENGE YOURSELF...

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.

intownsville.com.au | 37

Photos Tourism and Events Queensland

Photo Khy Orchard

The Strand from Jezzine Barracks

Boardwalk Jezzine Barracks

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 with LAVAZZA coffee Every Morning 365

PHONE ORDERS WELCOME

4724 1322 38 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

Photos Tourism and Event s Queensland /Budd Photo graphy

Photo Tourism and Events Queensland

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 St rand

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

To Bushland Beach

MT LOW

Woodlands

TOWN

GARLAND RD

To CAIRNS

BR

NORTH SHORE

UC

GEANEY LANE

EH

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DEERAGUN

WA Y

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MATHER ST

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Townsville Karting Club

MOUNT LOUISA

BANFIELD DR

BAYSWATER RD

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Federation Footbridge

TOWNSVILLE

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THE RING RD

Black Weir

RIVERSIDE GARDENS

Gleesons Weir

DOUGLAS ARTERI

ANGUS SMITH DR

CONDON To Ross River Dam

RASMUSSEN

RIVERWAY DRIVE

A1 BECK DRIVE

A1

S RI

Willows

HERVEY RANGE RD Cannon Park

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BAMFORD LANE

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THE RING RD

Willows Golf Course

BOHLE PLAINS

Main Road Major Shopping Centres

SUBURBS MAP

Parks/Gardens, Golf Course KELSO

40 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

KIRWAN

To PALLARENDA Rowes Bay Golf Course

PIMLICO

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Fairfield Shopping Centre

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Townsville Hospital

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Townsville Golf Course

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RAILWAY ESTATE

S ST

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Car Ferry Terminal

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ROSSLEA

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S ANNE

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Mater Private Hospital

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Railway Station

HYDE PARK

Coach & Ferry Terminal

FLINDERS ST E

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Civic Theatre

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MOONEY ST

L DA

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HUGH ST

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West End Cemetery

Convention Centre

Casino

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Queens Gardens

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MAGNETIC ISLAND

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TOWNSVILLE AIRPORT

Rock Pool

Jezzine Barracks

ROWES BAY

N COMMON

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Cluden Racecourse

To AYR & Billabong Sanctuary

Y WA

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JAMES COOK UNIVERSITY

BRUCE HIGHWAY

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LAVARACK ARMY BARRACKS

M

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

M

Accommodation

Hospital

Bike Way

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Service Station

Railway Line

Caravan Park

Public Swimming Pool

V8 Supercar Track

2km

41 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

intownsville.com.au | 41

TOWNSVILLE

Kissing Point

CITY MAP

6 Townsville Art Society A Army Museum North Queensland

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42 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

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Information Centre located in Flinders Square

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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

TOURIST INFORMATION

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BARBEQUE

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HOTEL

PUBLIC TOILETS

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MOTEL

B

PARKING

FERRY DEPARTURE FISHING

A ART GALLERY

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TO MAGNETIC ISLAND 8km

Burke St Headland

Via Sealink & Fantasea

CLEVELAND BAY Gregory Headland

Entertainment Centre

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43 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

intownsville.com.au | 43

Photo Megan MacKinnon

PARKS & GARDENS 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 step 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.

DAN GLEESON MEMORIAL GARDENS

Where: Thuringowa Drive, Kirwan.

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

THE STRAND

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

QUEENS GARDENS

Where: Paxton Street, Gregory Street and Kennedy Lane, North Ward.

Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, aviaries and a children’s playground.

Initiated in 1870, Queens Gardens is the oldest Botanic Garden in Townsville. Now covering 4 hectares, reduced from an original 40 hectares, it is considered a fine example of a tropical garden for european settlement. Plantings include 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 a café

44 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

Queens Gardens

are 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 tropics 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

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.

RIVERWAY - RIVERWAY LAGOONS

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 three 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.

45 | Sept. 2015 - Feb. 2016

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SHARE THE HILL SAFELY •C yclists watch your speed, look out for signs, other roads users and do not exceed 40km per hour. Please ensure that you warn pedestrians and reduce your speed.

•W alkers and runners must walk no more than two people across - this allows safe space for all users, including cars and cyclists.

IRONBARK TRACK This trail is nice and challenging, but not nearly as populated as the city side tracks. Starting at James Street in West End it takes you about three quarters of the way up Castle Hill Road. From here you can reach the top via the bitumen or continue off-road up the ‘Scramble Track’. The Ironbark Track is very rocky and can be a little slippery coming down, but it’s a great heart starter. From there it tapers off for about 20m, before it’s up, up, up again.

Starts: James Street, West End, or around the corner at Green Street, West End Ends: Three quarters of the way up Castle Hill Road Distance: 0.7km one way Best bit: The bench at the top of the trail for a rest

46 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

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CUDTHERINGA TRACK The most popular Castle Hill walking trail, the Cudtheringa Track is accessed from opposite the first car park at the bottom of Castle Hill Road and ends just before the summit. While the start and end are challenging due to the sharper incline, the mid section is moderate and has stunning views out to the city and Magnetic Island. If you don’t like crowds, avoid it around 5-7pm on weekdays as this track in particular tends to be the choice for post work workouts. During quieter times, it’s also a fantastic option to practise your trail running.

Starts: Opposite the first car park on Castle Hill Road Ends: Castle Hill Road, just short of Castle Hill summit Distance: 1.1km one way ‘SCRAMBLE’ TRACK This trail is very steep and challenging. It is opposite the top of the Ironbark Track or it connects with the Erythrina Track.

Starts: Three quarters of the way up Castle Hill Road Ends: Radar Hill Walk on the summit Distance: 0.5km one way

intownsville.com.au | 46

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Distance: 0.63km one way Best bit: Views over the city, Magnetic Island, Pallarenda and around to Cleveland Bay from the lookout.

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MAIDENHAIR LOWER TRACK This easy trail starts just behind the West End Cemetery on Church Street, West End and offers a pleasant walk parallel to the Maidenhair Track. Although the elevation isn’t high, the view out to Mount Stuart is surprisingly impressive. You will come out on Wilson Street where there’s a small climb via the road until you’ll rejoin the track. Follow a short set of stairs and you’ll eventually come to the Maidenhair Track.

Starts: West End Cemetery at Church Street, West End Ends: Wilson Street, West End, but rejoins to the Maidenhair Track Distance: 0.8km one way Best bit: Fantastic vista with minimal effort.

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MAIDENHAIR TRACK This walk is relatively easy as it has few climbs and hugs the base of the hill from West End Cemetery to the Goat Track in town. There are some pretty sections, including a bridge over a stream that flows in the wet season and a little rockpool after it’s rained. It gets a bit more challenging near the Goat Track where a little bit of rock hopping is required.

Starts: West End Cemetery at Church Street, West End Ends: Near the start of the Goat Track Distance: 1.13km one way Best bit: The little rock pool that appears after the rain THE GOAT TRACK Starting from Hillside Crescent just outside the CBD, the Goat Track is short and sharp. Getting to it requires a steep climb up the road before the incline begins again to take you to a lookout at the intersection of the Cudtheringa Track. The Goat Track is a good way to add a bit of variation if you usually just stick to the Cudtheringa Track and you prefer the city side tracks.

Starts: Hillside Crescent, Townsville City Ends: Castle Hill Road, just short of Castle Hill summit

ERYTHRINA TRACK We like to call this one the ‘sneaky shortcut track’ as it allows you to cut a big corner of road off if you are going up or coming down the hill. While this track is short and easy, it’s also very convenient. A lot of walkers know it exists, but many don’t realise that it actually starts from Balmoral Place (off Yarrawonga Drive) in Yarrawonga. It’s handy to know if you park at the bottom of Jacob’s Ladder, do that challenging climb, turn right onto Yarrawonga Drive, right into Balmoral Place and then onto the Erythrina Trail and the hill.

Starts: Balmoral Place, Yarrawonga Ends: Castle Hill Road, about half way up Distance: 0.4km one way Best bit: Being a sneaky little shortcut if you are running late/lacking energy WEST RIDGE TRACK It seems not many people know the existence of this fantastic trail that starts on William Street in West End and finishes half way up the hill, just opposite the end of the Erythrina Track. It has a rocky and relatively steep, but steady, start (it can get slippery and muddy at times). Then it flattens out onto the ridge line where there are stunning views of The Strand and Magnetic Island one way and Mount Stuart the other - 360 degrees of bliss. The track is easier after this, still climbing but quite gradually and with the help of stairs in some sections.

Starts: William Street, West End (between Ernest Street and Claude Street) Ends: Half way up Castle Hill Road, opposite the Erythrina Track Distance: 1km one way Best bit: Jaw dropping 360 degree views SUMMIT WALK, RADAR HILL WALK AND PILLAR BOX WALK These are all short, well-maintained, concreted paths you can do at the top of Castle Hill. They are particularly great for visitors as they afford unrivalled views of Townsville and surrounds and have historical significance but the Summit Walk is great for those wanting an extra physical challenge. Run that flight of stairs a few times and it will finish you off before your descent.

intownsville.com.au | 47

What’s On Regular Events FULL MOON DRUM CIRCLE MONTHLY (weather permitting) Venue: Gregory Street Amphitheatre Time: 6pm - 7.30pm Contact: Alex: 0414 803 666 www.therhythmconnection.com COTTERS MARKETS Venue: Flinders Street, Townsville City (Between Stanley St and Denham St) Time: Every Sunday 8.30am - 1pm www.sundayonflinders.com.au WILLOWS ROTARY MARKETS Venue: Willows Shopping Centre, Thuringowa Time: Every Sunday 7.30am - 11.30am (Excl. Christmas and New Years) www.townsvillerotarymarkets.com.au RENEGADE HANDMADE MARKETS Venue: Marian School, Cnr. Hugh and Corcoran Sts, Currajong Time: 2nd Sunday of the month, 8am - 1pm www.facebook.com/morethanamarket/about COTTERS MARKETS

AITKENVALE UNITING CHURCH MARKETS Venue: Aitkenvale Uniting Church Time: 3rd Saturday of month 8am - 12 noon BALGAL BEACH MARKETS Venue: Fisherman’s Landing, Beachside Time: 1st Saturday of the month, 8am - 1pm CARLYLE GARDENS ARTS & CRAFTS MARKET Venue: 60 Beck Drive, Condon Time: 1st Saturday of the month, 9am - noon CASTLE HILL PCYC MARKETS Venue: Castle Hill PCYC, Belgian Gardens Time: Every Sunday 7am - 11am HORSESHOE BAY MARKETS Venue: Horseshoe Bay Foreshore, Magnetic Island Time: Sunday 9am - 2pm MUNDINGBURRA MARKETS Venue: Mundingburra State School, 77 Ross River Rd, Mundingburra Time: 3rd Sunday of the month 7.30am - 12 noon MAGNETIC ISLAND RSL NIGHT MARKETS Venue: Magnetic Island RSL, Arcadia Time: Friday 5.30pm - 8pm NORTH SHORE MARKETS Venue: Main Street, North Shore Time: Saturdays 7am - 12.30pm www.northshoremarket.net.au STRAND ROTARY NIGHT MARKETS May - December Venue: Strand Park, North Ward Time: 1st Friday of the month 5pm - 9.30pm www.townsvillerotarymarkets.com.au

FULL MOON DRUM CIRCLE 48 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

UPPER ROSS COMMUNITY MARKETS Venue: Apex Park Rasmussen, on Ross River across from the shops Time: 1st Saturday of the month, 3pm - 6pm

September

October

MUSEUM OF TROPICAL QUEENSLAND Palm Island and Our People The history of Palm Island in images and digital stories Discounts for locals Venue: 70 – 102 Flinders St, Townsville Open daily 9.30am – 5pm Contact: 4726 0600

DANCE TROPICS DANCE! 5th October Venue: Jezzine Barracks, 19 Isley Street, North Ward, Townsville Email: admin@dancenorth.com.au

TOWNSVILLE CINEMA GROUP BORDER 7pm 5th September Venue: Event Cinemas, Cnr Sturt and Blackwood Sts, Townsville City Contact: info@cinemagroup.org.au www.cinemagroup.org.au BURDEKIN WATER FESTIVAL PARADE & MARDI GRAS 5pm - 10pm Saturday 7th September Venue: Queen St, Ayr INGHAM SUGAR CITY RODEO 9am - 10pm 6th - 7th September Venue: Cooper St, Ingham UNDER THE MANGO TREE Townsville Watercolour Group 10am - 4pm 7th - 8th September Venue: Mo’sart Gallery 14 Anderson St, Railway Estate, Townsville Contact: 4724 2742 SOFT CORE 8.30am 5pm 6th September - 3rd November Venue: Perc Tucker Regional Gallery, Corner Denham St & Flinders St, Townsville Contact: 4727 9011 TRAVELLING BY STRING 12 noon - 5pm until 22nd September Venue: Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts 380 Flinders Street, Townsville

MAGNETIC ISLAND TRIATHLON 6th October Venue: From Picnic Bay, Magnetic Island Email: nqtriacademy@outlook.com OKTOBERFEST 11.30am - 11.30pm 6th October Venue: Townsville Brewery, 252 Flinders St, Townsville Web: www.stickytickets.com.au KINDNESS WALK 6pm - 9pm 12th October Venue: The Strand, Townsville TOWNSVILLE SPIRIT & SOUL FESTIVAL 9am - 2pm 13th October Venue: Herveys Range Tearooms Entry: Free THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ 23rd October Venue: Townsville Civic Theatre 41 Boundary Street, South Townsville Email: enquiries@townsville.qld.gov.au INGHAM MARAKA FESTIVAL 26th October Venue: Rotary Park, Ingham Contact: 4776 2066 SYDNEY COMEDY SHOWCASE 7.30pm - 9.30pm 24th October Venue: Townsville Civic Theatre 41 Boundary Street, South Townsville Web: www.ticketshop.com.au OKTOBERFEST

BURDEKIN WATER FESTIVAL intownsville.com.au | 49

November

January

SHAGGADELIC 6.45pm - 10.45pm 2nd November Venue: Stage Door Theatre Restaurant 5 Hayles Avenue, Arcadia. Magnetic Island Email: au.patronbase.com

GOLDFIELD ASHES 25th - 27th January 2020 Venue: Cricket Ground, Charters Towers Contact: ww.goldfieldsashes.com.au

JOHN EDWARD LIVE 7pm - 9pm 7th November Venue: Townsville Civic Theatre 41 Boundary Street, South Townsville Email: ticketshop@townsville.qld.gov.au

CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS YEAR OF THE RAT 25th January 2020 AUSTRALIA DAY 26 January 2020

TOWNSVILLE REMEMBRANCE DAY 10.30am 11th November Townsville City, Anzac Park 10.45am Thuringowa Central, Riverway PBR AUSTRALIA GRAND FINALS 15th - 16th November Venue: Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre Email: pbra@pbr.com

NEW YEARS EVE

BUSBY MAROU - GREAT DIVIDE TOUR 7pm 23rd November Venue: Kirwan Tavern, 154 Thuringowa Drive, Kirwan Email: oztix.com.au AUSTRALIA DAY

STABLE ON THE STRAND

December

MUSEUM OF TROPICAL QUEENSLAND NEW Permanent Science Gallery Venue: 70 – 102 Flinders St, Townsville Open: 15 December daily 9.30am – 5pm Contact: 4726 0600

GOLDFIELD ASHES

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT 9th December Venue: Reid Park, Railway Estate Contact: 1300 878 001 STABLE ON THE STRAND 18th - 22nd December 2018 Venue: Strand Park, North Ward 50 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

CHINESE NEW YEAR

TOWNSVILLE ART GALLERIES TRAIL DINING OUT

The Townsville Art Gallery Trail is a self guided free tour that will take you on a journey to several art galleries in the Townsville CBD and the Strand. The galleries you will visit along the trail are a mix of privately owned, and council run galleries.

With regular exhibitions the galleries are proud to be showcasing the creations and artwork by local and international artists. Each gallery has its own curator and is distinctly unique, and you will find a wide variety of art styles represented!

This is a great activity to do for half a day for adults and kids alike. The trail begins by winding through the heart of the Townsville CBD with heritage listed buildings on both sides. Continuing along the trail brings you past St James Cathedral with a stunning

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SYLVIA DITCHBURN GALLERY www.sylviaditchburnfineartgallery.com 261 Flinders Street, Townsville Tue - Fri 10am-4pm Sun 10am-1pm THE STRAND

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Opening hours for the galleries listed below are correct as of January 2019 however they are subject to change.

UMBRELLA STUDIO www.umbrella.org.au 408 Flinders Street, Townsville Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sun 9am-1pm

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view overlooking the Strand ahead and the Townsville CBD behind. Finally the trail leads you along the length of the beautiful Strand beaches.

As this trail is self paced you’re free to explore the boutique shops hidden in the CBD, spot the city street art and have a relaxing coffee or ice cream along The Strand! There is a wide variety of possibilities and you’re encouraged to make the trail your own and tailor it to your liking!

Enjoy the trail! #TownsvilleArtGalleriesTrail Distance is approximately 3.5km one way and takes 45mins not including time spent in the galleries.

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UMBRELLA STUDIO

PERC TUCKER REGIONAL GALLERY Corner Denham and Flinders Street, Townsville Mon-Fri 10am-5pm Sat-Sun 10am-2pm THE DRILL HALL STUDIO www.thedrillhallstudio.com.au 27 Mitchell Street, Townsville Mon - Fri 9am-5pm Sat - Sun 9am-4pm GALLERY 48 www.gallery48thestrandtownsville.com 2/48 The Strand, Townsville Wed and Sat 12 noon-5pm TOWNSVILLE ART SOCIETY www.townsvilleartsocietyinc.org.au Hut 25 Jezzine Barracks, Townsville Mon - Sun 10am-4pm intownsville.com.au | 51

ART GALLERIES

ALUMINIUM ART EXCLUSIVES 263 Flinders St, Townsville City Open: Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri 10am - 5pm Sat & Sun 9am - 1pm Phone: 4427 5497 Web: www.aluminiumart.com.au CASTLETOWN JUMP IN SHOP TOWNSVILLE ART SOCIETY Castletown Shoppingworld, next to Westpac Open: Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat - 9am to 4pm DESIGNS BY COTTERS 390 Flinders Street, Townsville Open: Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat 9am - 1pm, Sun 8am - 1pm Phone: 0458 735 447

GALLERY 48 2/48 The Strand, North Ward Open: Wed & Sat 12 noon - 5pm, Phone: 4724 4898 Web: www.gallery48thestrandtownsville.com MO’S ART GALLERY & 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 NQ POTTERS WORKSHOP NQ Potters workshop at 15 Flowers Street, Railway Estate. Fully equipped workspace for members, classes and workshops Phone: 4772 3458 for more info PERC TUCKER REGIONAL GALLERY Cnr Denham St & Flinders St Open: Mon - Fri 10am - 5pm, Sat & Sun 10am - 2pm Phone: 4727 9011 PINNACLES GALLERY Riverway Arts Centre, Thuringowa Central Open: Tues - Sat 10am - 5pm Phone: 4773 8871

Photos Julie Sta rk

Strand Ephemera 2019

52 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

SYLVIA DITCHBURN FINE ART 1/261 Flinders Street, Townsville Open: Tues - Fri 10am - 4pm, Sun 10am - 1pm Phone: Sylvia 0419 790 245 Ken 0414 594 621 www.sylviaditchburnfineartgallery.com THE DRILL HALL STUDIO 27 Mitchell Street, North Ward Open: Weekdays 9am - 5pm, weekends 9am - 4pm (Closed Easter weekend) Phone: 4721 2634 TOWNSVILLE ART SOCIETY Hut 25, Jezzine Barracks, Mitchell St, North Ward Open: Monday - Sunday 10am - 4pm Phone: ‘Art at Jezzine’ 4771 3484 TYTO REGIONAL ART GALLERY 73-75 McIlwraith St, TYTO Wetlands Precinct, Ingham Open: Mon - Sun 10am - 4pm Phone: 4776 4725 UMBRELLA STUDIO 408 Flinders Street, Townsville Open: Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm, Sun 9am - 1pm Phone: 4772 7109 Web: www.umbrella.org.au

Gallery at Hut 25 Jezzine Barracks

Ph 47713484

Art at Jezzine Up the hill from the Rockpool on the Strand

Original local artworks and crafts for sale OPEN DAILY from 10 to 4 or visit our “Jump In Shop” at Castletown Shoppingworld

GALLERY

48

2/48 The Strand

Contemporary Visual Arts from the tropics and art collections

Open: Wednesdays & Saturdays 12 noon - 5:00pm p: 4724 4898 or m: 0408 287 203 www.gallery48thestrandtownsville.com e: gallery48thestrand@gmail.com intownsville.com.au | 53

TOWNSVILLE’S ISLAND PLAYGROUND

Huntingfiel Bay

Magnetic Island is magnetic both by name and nature. Originally named for its interference with 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.

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.

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 Cleveland 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, raptors, 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 Fantasea car and passenger barge located on Ross Street, South Townsville or you can jump aboard the 25 minute Sealink ferry service at their city Breakwater Terminal on Sir Leslie Thiess Drive.

Come over and enjoy the most relaxing stay you will ever experience!

54 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

Rollingstone Bay

West Point

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Young Bay

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

Photo Tourism and Events Queensland/Khy Orchard

Rock Wallabies at Old Barge Terminal, Geoffrey Bay

Photo Neal Saker

Take a walk on the iconic Picnic Bay Jetty

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#thisismagneticisland (Share your Experience and Memories of ‘Maggie’)

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Lovers Bay Maud Bay

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Norris Bay

Joyce Bay

Wilson Bay

Balding Bay Radical Bay

HORSESHOE BAY Endeavour Creek

Gowrie Bay

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Bright Point

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NELLY BAY Butler Creek

Cockle Bay

Rocky Bay

Nobby Head

PICNIC BAY

Hawkings Point

Photo Tourism and Events Queensland

Photo Krista Eppelstun

Snorkel Trails, Geoffrey and Nelly Bays

#thisismagneticisland #thisismagneticisland

Command Post, The Forts Walk

55 | Sept 2019 -(Share Feb 2020 intownsville.com.au | 55 your Experience (Share your and Experience Memoriesand of ‘Maggie’) Memories of ‘Maggie’)

WELCOME TO MAGNETIC ISLAND

Magnetic Island Race Week

Florence Bay Beautiful Alma Bay

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 supermarkets, cafés, a bottleshop, bakery, pharmacy, service station, real estate agent, ATMs, post office, travel agency, gift and clothing shops 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, closed shoes and hats.

Picnic Bay is now the most tranquil of the 56 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

Photo Neal Saker

Photo Tourism and Events Queensland

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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 around the point from Cockle Bay. Have a game of golf at the island’s only golf course. The views are breathtaking so you won’t be in any hurry to finish the nine holes. 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 by holiday makers.

Head along the western track to discover West Point. Its an ideal fishing spot and a chance to escape from busy island life.

#thisismagneticisland (Share your Experience and Memories of ‘Maggie’)

Discover the best of

Magnetic Island

TROPIC HIGHLIGHTS

VALUE PACKAGES

● Ferry + Bus ● Ferry + Tours ● Ferry + Car Hire ● Ferry + Accommodation

Adult fares from $30 return. See website for details.

18 trips. 20 minutes.

Your quickest link to Magnetic Island.

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 Island bus pass Entry into Bungalow Bay Koala Village Entry into Reef HQ Entry into Museum of Tropical QLD

priced from $108pp*

*Concession, child and family packages also available. Prices subject to change.

BOOK ONLINE AND SAVE

sealinkqld.com.au or call 1300 624 443 57 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

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

hotel@arcadiavillage.com.au www.arcadiavillagehotel.com

GREAT BEER • GREAT FOOD • GREAT PUB

Monday: International Parmi Night $15 Tuesday: Steak Night $15 Wednesday: World Famous Toad Races Thursday: Trivia Friday: Live Entertainment Saturday: Live Entertainment Sunday: Free Bingo $1,000 Jackpot

• Bikini Tree Café open to 10 o’clock • Free Public & Kids Pools • Beachfront location • Weddings, Parties, Functions, Conference • Free Wifi • 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

59 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

MUST DO ON THE ISLAND >N avigate your way around the island by road, or learn more about island life on a stretch jeep or Segway tour >E xplore the walking tracks through the National Park > Take the Forts Walk to spot a koala, see the World War II ruins and many amazing views of the Coral Sea >O bserve the rock wallabies at Geoffrey Bay in Arcadia

>S top at Horseshoe Bay, West Point or the end of Picnic Bay Jetty and catch a brilliant sunset >B ack a toad at the weekly cane toad races on Wednesday nights at Hotel Arcadia >G rab a bargain at one of 2 markets - Friday nights at the RSL Club from 5.30 - 8pm or Horseshoe Bay Markets on the second and last Sunday of the month, with extra markets during school holidays.

> Snorkel the fringing reef surrounding the island

> Take in a cabaret dinner at Stage Door Theatre Restaurant

>C uddle a koala or wombat or kiss a crocodile at Bungalow Bay

> Play

a round of golf at the Picnic Bay Country Club

> Visit the local artists and art galleries

> Test out the greens at the Magnetic Island Bowling Club

> Take the 4WD road and picnic at secluded West Point >S ail or charter a boat around the island to discover one its many secluded bays > Test your fitness level or just have fun with a great selection of water sports at Horseshoe Bay > Climb the island’s spectacular rocky outcrops

>G allop from the bush to the Coral Sea on horseback > See the island from the air with a helicopter ride > Try a bush tucker breakfast at Bungalow Bay > Watch the yachts racing in Magnetic Island’s Race Week

FERRY TIMETABLE DAY

DEP TOWNSVILLE

DEP 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*

5:30am 6:30am 7:05am 7:45am 8:45am 9:30am 10.30am 11:30am 12:55pm 2:15pm 3:45pm 4:30pm 5:25pm 6:00pm 7:30pm 9:15pm 10:30pm 11:30pm

6:10am 7:10am 7:50am 8:25am 9:25am 10:15am 11.10am 12.15pm 1:35pm 3:00pm 4:25pm 5:10pm 6:00pm 6:40pm 8:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 12:00am

* Indicates services that may not operate on Public Holidays. See website for further information.

BOOK ONLINE AND Call 1300 624 443

SAVE

sealinkqld.com.au

60 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

MONDAY TO FRIDAY

SATURDAY & SUNDAY

5.20am*^ 7.10am 9.00am 10.45am^ 12.35pm 2.40pm 4.25pm^ 6.05pm

7.10am 9.00am 10.45am 12.35pm 2.40pm 4.25pm 6.05pm*

Depart Townsville

Depart Magnetic Is.

6.15am*^ 8.05am 9.55am 11.40am^ 1.25pm 3.30pm 5.15pm^ 6.55pm

Depart Townsville

Depart Magnetic Is.

8.05am 9.55am 11.40am 1.25pm 3.30pm 5.15pm 6.55pm*

^ Limited availability Tuesday & Thursday only * Not operating public holidays * Not operating Saturday except during QLD school holidays

BOOK NOW

MAGNETICISLANDFERRIES.COM.AU

07 4796 9300

#thisismagneticisland (Share your Experience and Memories of ‘Maggie’)

Photo Tourism and Events Queensland

Hawkings Point Track, Magnetic Island looking over Picnic Bay Jetty

#thisismagneticisland #thisismagneticisland

61 | Sept 2019 - (Share Feb 2020 intownsville.com.au | 61 your Experience (Share your and Experience Memoriesand of ‘Maggie’) Memories of ‘Maggie’)

Photo Magnetic Jet

ADVENTURE: ISLAND STYLE

Jet Skiing island style

Water sports are popular all year round.

Plunge into the tranquil waters, or snorkel along the fringing reef and explore the island snorkelling trails. 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 out a paddle board or a jet ski. Water ski around the island or hire a yacht and sail through 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 or get off the beaten track with a 4WD drive tour. There are also 25 kilometres of walking trails through the National Park.

62 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

HORSESHOE BAY WATER ADVENTURE Horseshoe Bay is the island’s largest beach and it’s northerly aspect shelters its 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 on a stand-up paddle board.

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 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 have a 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 personal watercraft is sure to leave a lasting impression. Total exhilaration; either the 3 hour Circumnavigation or the 2 hour 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 are highly recommended, families welcome.

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

(See back cover.)

#thisismagneticisland (Share your Experience and Memories of ‘Maggie’)

Car Hire • Auto and manual available

• Unlimited KMs included

• Open top or with a roof

• Insurance included

• Free pick up and drop off from anywhere on the island

• Family cars available

FROM $50

• Free child seats if required

Explore Westpoint and Radical Bay, SNORKEL GEAR the hidden gems of the island only FOR HIRE accessible by 4WD

Hire for Events

Arcadia Beach Guest House & Car Hire Beachfront Location FROM $35

• Self-contained beachfront house • King bed air-con en-suites • Private air-con rooms • Budget air-con rooms • Safari Glamping Tents • Ocean Views • Kitchens • Pool Table • Swimming Pool • BBQ & Pizza Oven • Laundry Facilities

27 Marine Parade, Arcadia, Magnetic Island Email: info@arcadiabeachguesthouse.com.au www.arcadiabeachguesthouse.com.au

Phone: (07) 4778 5668 intownsville.com.au | 63

BIG MAMA SAILING

Photo To urism an d Events Queensla

nd/Khy

Orchard

Big Mama Sailing offers a unique and memorable sailing experience exploring beautiful Magnetic Island with a small personalised group of 12 guests & three friendly crew Lisa, Stu, Fletcher (& Coco the Boat dog). We are owner/operators and we welcome you into our home, 60ft (18m) Big Mama. We have a variety of sailing options available departing Magnetic Island and we are happy to pick up/drop off from Townsville for private charters and large groups. We love sharing our lifestyle & backyard with others, so if you are wanting a memorable and unforgettable sailing experience - join us on Big Mama.

Also, commencing trips in the near future we offer the option of our other yacht, Ragamuffin 3.

SAIL • SNORKEL • EXPLORE • RELAX • Adventure Island Sail Circumnavigate Magnetic Island.

Morning/afternoon tea & BBQ lunch.

Kayaks, paddleboards & boom netting included.

• Half Day Island Sail Depart at 9am and return at 1.30pm. Morning tea & BBQ lunch.

• Sunset Sail 2 hours of sailing.

Complimentary beverage on arrival & antipasto platters.

• Private Charters Small personalised groups of 12 Max. BYO is welcome.

Contact Lisa: 0437 206 360

COMINNG: S OO

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

uffin Small personalised groups Ragam3 www.bigmamasailing.com

64 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

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.

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

#thisismagneticisland (Share your Experience and Memories of ‘Maggie’)

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

Photo Tourism and Events Queensland

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 & RADICAL BAYS Distance: 3.4km return Time: 60 mins 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 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

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, a gelato or coffee 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. Try to 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.

#thisismagneticisland (Share your Experience and Memories of ‘Maggie’)

AWARD WINNING unique and personalised experiences showing you places you won’t find on your own!

DISCOVERY TOUR I SUNSET & SHIPWRECK TOUR I PRIVATE CHARTERS

SNORKELLING FISHING | EXPLORING Explore beautiful Magnetic Island from above and below the water. Our island home for over 35 years, we have many stories and special places to share!

Follow us on

CALL 0439 67 | Sept 2019 785 - Feb 216 2020 BOOK ONLINE www.aquascenecharters.com.au

BURDEKIN SHIRE

Photo David Lynham Photography

AYR & HOME HILL Diving on th

e Yongala wr eck

Alva Beach

Welcome to the Burdekin, where unspoilt natural beauty meets a thriving rural community right on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef.

From pristine beaches to exhilarating adventure sports, world-class fishing and unique cultural attractions, there is so much to discover.

Famous for its wealth of water, abundant sunshine and rich agriculture, the Burdekin is home to over 30km of unspoilt beaches – perfect for walking, swimming, picnics, kitesurfing, fishing and more.

Boat ramps and landings situated around the district provide access to creeks, rivers and estuaries as well as shoals and reefs situated just off the coast.

For experienced divers or those wanting to take up diving, the S.S Yongala shipwreck is located just 22kms from Alva Beach. Rated one of the top dive sites in the world it is one of the only places along the east coast of Australia where reef and estuary fish can be seen together.

The Burdekin boasts spectacular wetlands offering a diverse range of bird species which rival that of Kakadu National Park. The Burdekin is home to over 26% of bird species found in Australia.

The towns of Ayr and Home Hill offer great boutique shopping with an abundance of specialty stores offering fashion, homewares, giftware and more. The quaint and funky cafés offer delicious coffees and the many restaurants and eateries offer a range of cuisines.

The region is alive with events with few weekends having nothing planned. Get frocked and attend the infamous Burdekin Grower Race Day; head to the Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival where you will experience the First Fire of the season and the back breaking work of a by-gone era with the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships, or spend a night at the Theatre and catch a live show.

For more information on what’s on visit one of our Visitor Information Centres either in Ayr or Home Hill.

Our volunteers offer a wealth of knowledge about the area and there is some great information on experiences available in the Burdekin and surrounding regions as well as accommodation options. For those who are fully self-contained and just passing through, the Home Hill Comfort Stop offers a maximum of two free nights stay.

Where else can you visit in the world where there are over 300 days of sunshine a year and with an abundance of fresh water? Visit the Burdekin today and discover your very own adventure.

68 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

‘First Fire’ event

Mt Inkerman Lookout

Top 10 Experiences 1. Dive the world famous S.S Yongala shipwreck 2. Shop ‘til you drop along Queen Street 3. Taste the Burdekin at one of the quaint and funky cafes or many hotels and restaurants 4. Experience the raw power of a cane fire up close from June to November 5. Catch a ‘barra’ in one of the many creeks or estuaries 6. Visit Alva Beach or Wunjunja with your family for a picnic, water sports or to just relax 7. See it from the top. Mt Inkerman provides panoramic views of the vast surrounding landscape, drive up using the road or walk up the Mt Inkerman Nature Trail (#MINT) 8. Immerse yourself in the history and culture and follow the Art Trail through Ayr and Home Hill, walk Pioneer Avenue or stop in at the Brandon Heritage Precinct 9. Enjoy a show at the Burdekin Theatre 10. Step back in time to WWII and visit Charlie’s Hill

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.visitburdekin.com.au, find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/visitburdekin or follow us on Instagram @visitburdekin

ŠRoslyn Budd (Budd Photography)

PALUMA

k Bridge Crystal Cree

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 60km north of Townsville, or 40km 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 7km 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

Crystal Cr eek

Photos Tourism and Events Queensland

Cloudy Creek

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 kilometre 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

Rollingstone RollingstoneBeach BeachCaravan CaravanResort Resort

FrostyMango Mango RD Frosty ACH RD 12km P BEACH 12km CAMP BE HEENNCAM H Boat Ramp Boat Ramp & Pontoon

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Stinger Enclosure (Nov - May)

General Store

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Balgal Beach Holiday Units Balgal Beach

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BALGAL BEACH MARKETS Venue:Fishermans FishermansLanding, Landing,Balgal BalgalBeach Beach Venue: BALGAL BEACH MARKETS Time:The Thefirst firstSaturday Saturday themonth month Time: ofofthe Venue: Landing, Balgal Beach FruitFishermans vegies,homemade homemade cakes, preserves, arts arts Fruit && veges, cakes, preserves, Time: The first Saturday of the month crafts, plants, homemade soaps, lotions lotions && oils, oils, &&crafts, plants, homemade soaps, books andbric-a-brac. bric-a-brac.

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Phone: | Sept7227 70 4770 2019 - Feb 2020

Studio 26

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MYSTIC E AVE Medical Centre & Pharmacy Medical Centre Golf Course & Pharmacy Golf Course

A1 To CAIRNS 300km

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To TOWNSVILLE CBD 50km

Photo Tourism and Events Queensland

Tranquil Jourama Falls

Pure Fruit Juice & Homemade Icecream made from Real Tropical Fruits

OPEN 7 Days 9am-5pm Ph: 4770 8184

4770 7296

Mango with Icecream Mango Cheesecake Pure Mango Juice & Mango Trifle Sandwiches & Meals On the Highway 65km North of Townsville intownsville.com.au | 71

Photo Tourism and Events Queensland

Ulysses

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HINCHINBROOK Just over an hour north of Townsville is the tropical paradise of Hinchinbrook.

With Ingham at its centre, the region is surrounded by rugged mountain ranges, giant waterfalls, the Great Barrier Reef, wild beaches and tropical islands. It’s a place of breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife, delicious, locally sourced food, inspirational art and 60,000 years of culture all woven into one.

• Experience the festivities at the iconic annual Australian Italian Festival.

• Sample the gourmet offerings of Ingham’s famous Italian inspired delicatessens.

• Take in the majesty of Australia’s highest single drop waterfall: Wallaman Falls, plunging 268 metres!

• Dive into rainforest plunge pools at Jourama Falls.

• Discover the diverse wildlife, including the TYTO Wetlands – home to 27.4% of Australia’s bird species!

• Escape to Zoe Bay on Hinchinbrook Island.

• Take a drive to discover the Lower Herbert district and coastal beaches on the Hinchinbrook Way Drive.

• Take a whale watching tour.

• Dive the Great Barrier Reef.

• See the Herbert River Museum in Halifax.

72 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

Photo Neal Saker

Hinchinbrook Island

Photo To ur Queensl ism and Even ts and - C ristoffer Collin

INGHAM, FORREST BEACH, HALIFAX, LUCINDA, TAYLORS BEACH

Jourama Falls

Photos Tourism and Events Queensland

Zoe Falls Pool, Hinchinbrook Island

Jouram a Falls

TYTO Wetlands Ingham

Photo Neal Saker

Falls und Wallaman Countryside aro

intownsville.com.au | 73

OVERLANDER’S WAY

KURANDA CAIRNS GORDONVALE

MAREEBA GULF OF CARPENTARIA WOLLOGORANG

ATHERTON Lyn d

KARUMBA

HELL’S GATE

NORMANTON

BURKETOWN TIRRANNA

Nicholson River

RN ORY

Savannah Way

1

DOOMADGEE

CROYDON

1

GEORGETOWN

MOUNT SURPRISE Undara 62 Volcanic NP

Great Tropical Drive

Matilda Highway

THE LYND JUNCTION

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RICHMOND HUGHENDEN

McKINLAY

Paluma State Forest

CHARTERS TOWERS

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MOUNT COOLON

KYNUNA

The Overlander’s Way is richMIDDLETON with authentic heritage experiences that are linked WINTON together. The attractions explore the legends, characters, 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.

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.

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.

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

JULIA CREEK VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE While you are at the Centre take a look at the mounted Julia Creek Dunnart (Sminthopsis douglasi)

74 | Sept 2019 - Feb 2020

Display. The Dunnart is a small nocturnal marsupial thought to be extinct until 1992. It is a feisty yet endearing endangered species.

CLONCURRY UNEARTHED VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE AND MUSEUM Get up close and personal with memorabilia from the Mary Kathleen Uranium Mine, Robert O’Hara Burke’s water bottle (of Burke and Wills fame), as well as one of Australia’s most comprehensive gem and mineral collections. Cloncurry Unearthed also boasts Aboriginal memorabilia and the breastplate once worn by George, King of Friezland.

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.

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.

CHARTERS TOWERS & RAVENSWOOD

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.

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 Ravenswood

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 are 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 more information 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 self-guided 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 Charters Towers

Gateway to the outback...

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FLINDERS DISCOVERY CENTRE, HUGHENDEN

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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 77 days days 9.00am 9.00am -- 5.00pm 5.00pm (Closed (Closed some some public public holidays) holidays) Open 37 Gray Gray Street, Street, Hughenden Hughenden Qld Qld 4821 4821 37 P: (07) (07) 4741 4741 2970 2970 E: E: info@flinders.qld.gov.au info@flinders.qld.gov.au P: www.visithughenden.com.au www.visithughenden.com.au

HUGHENDEN Welcome to the Flinders Shire, with over 41,000 km² of diverse landscapes and history dating back over 100 million years.

Hughenden is situated on the edge of a vast pre-historic inland sea, once home to many terrestrial dinosaurs as well as marine reptiles, making this area well known as ‘Dinosaur Country’. Flinders Shire also encompasses the smaller communities of Prairie, Torrens Creek and Stamford.

First stop when arriving in Hughenden is to the Flinders Discovery Centre. The Centre is open seven days a week from 9.00am to 5.00pm and closed on some public holidays and through the hotter months, weekend hours are shortened. The staff at the Centre will direct you to all the points of Interest in the Shire.

Hughenden’s biggest attraction in Porcupine Gorge National Park, known as Australia’s ‘Little Grand Canyon’ 73km north of Hughenden. Camp bookings are essential before arriving which can be done at the Flinders Discovery Centre or phone 13 74 68 (24 hours, 7 days).

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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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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.

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