A North Queensland Summer Holiday

Tropical Townsville

Townsville is a vibrant city boasting a rich history, beautiful beaches and a plethora of exciting activities to keep locals and tourists entertained. Whether you're interested in exploring the outdoors, delving into history and culture or simply enjoying the city's nightlife, there's something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do in Townsville:

Visit The Strand

The Strand is a picturesque beachfront promenade that offers stunning views of Magnetic Island and the Coral Sea. It's the perfect place to take a stroll, have a picnic, take a swim or simply relax and soak up the sun. The Strand is also home to a variety of cafes, restaurants, pubs and shops, making it a great spot to grab a bite to eat, do some souvenir shopping and plan your next move.

Learn About The History Of The Nywaigi People

Meet the traditional owners of the lands around Ingham, the Nywaigi Aboriginal people, at Mungalla Station, 90 minutes north of Townsville. On a guided tour of the station and its wetlands, you’ll learn about the history of the homestead originally built by Irishman James Cassady, the brutal confrontation between European settlers and local Aboriginal people and how the Cassady family intervened. You can also try your hand at throwing a boomerang and enjoy a Kup-Murri dinner experience which is cooked underground.

Jezzine Barracks and Kissing Point Fort

Immerse yourself in Townsville's military history at Jezzine Barracks, a heritage-listed site with walking trails, art installations, and panoramic views. Explore Kissing Point Fort, which dates back to the late 1800s and provides a fascinating glimpse into Townsville's past as a defence stronghold.

Seek Out The City’s Street Art

Take a walk and uncover the city’s larger-than-life murals, portraits and thought-provoking pieces, with 25 street artworks commissioned by the council. With a downloadable map available, there’s never been a brighter way to explore the city.

Visit the Billabong Sanctuary

The Billabong Sanctuary is a wildlife park that's home to a variety of Australian animals, including koalas, kangaroos and crocodiles. You can take a guided tour of the park to learn about the animals and their habitats, or even have a close encounter with a koala or python.

Explore Castle Hill

Castle Hill is a granite monolith that dominates the Townsville skyline. It's a popular spot for hiking and mountain biking and offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes. You can take a leisurely stroll along one of the walking tracks or challenge yourself with a more strenuous hike to the summit.

Visit the Museum of Tropical Queensland

The Museum of Tropical Queensland is a fascinating museum that explores the natural and cultural history of North Queensland. It's home to a number of interactive exhibits, including a replica of the HMS Pandora, which sank off the coast of Townsville in 1791.

Discover Magnetic Island

Take a short ferry ride from Townsville and you’ll be immersed in the natural beauty of Magnetic Island. This 52-square-kilometer gem offers an enticing blend of stunning nature and adventure. Pristine beaches, like Alma Bay and Horseshoe Bay, invite sun-soaked relaxation or snorkelling amidst vibrant marine life. Nature trails wind through lush forests, leading to panoramic viewpoints atop its rugged terrain. The island's koala population adds an adorable charm to its conservation parks. Magnetic Island embodies laid-back island living with a touch of adventure—a magnetic pull for travellers seeking serenity intertwined with nature's marvels.

Catch A Cowboys Game

The 2024 NRL season is right around the corner and there’s never been a better time to back the North Queensland Cowboys. After a disappointing 2023 season, the Cowboys will be looking to be rebuilt this year in the quest for their second premiership, with their first home game of the season kicking off on March 16 against the Newcastle Knights. The NRLW Cowboys will be looking to improve in their second season in the competition, with their first home game to take place at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in August against the St George Illawarra Dragons.

Whether you’re planning a week away or a day trip, make sure to make the most of your time these holidays and explore everything on your front door. For those taking the opportunity to travel, the Summer Holiday series will continue next edition with suggestions for ways to spend your holidays throughout north Queensland. Grab the January 18 edition of Burdekin Life to discover your next destination.

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The Strand

History Of The Nywaigi People

Jezzine Barracks and Kissing Point Fort

Billabong Sanctuary

Castle Hill

Museum of Tropical Queensland

Photos supplied