Townsville is the largest city in Northern Australia and is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state with a population exceeding 170,000. Located about halfway between the tip of Cape York and Brisbane, Townsville stretches across 3,736 square kilometres and is nestled on the shores of Cleveland Bay. Traditional owners, the Bindal and Wulgurukaba peoples, are the first know people to have lived in the Townsville region. The city was founded in 1864 and declared a city in 1903.
Character & Climate
Townsville is often characterised by its relaxed, tropical lifestyle which leverages off the beauty and charm of the city's natural surrounds. With the idyllic paradise of Magnetic Island right at its doorstep, a diverse mix of rainforest, sandy beaches, world-class reef and diving experiences, outback bush and big city benefits, Townsville has something for every holiday itinerary.
With over 300 glorious days of sunshine a year, every day is an opportunity to enjoy the vast array of experiences this vibrant city has to offer. Winter in North Queensland is a delight, and the temperate climate offers the perfect escape from the cold winters down south. Picturesque swimming locations and well-shaded parks and gardens offer endless recreational opportunities for visitors and locals alike.
City Precincts
Flinders Street Central is the traditional city heart of Townsville. Flinders Street is home to a wide variety of retail shops and service providers and is also the venue for award-winning Cotters Markets, which are held every Sunday. Flinders Street Central is about to undergo major redevelopment - a fresh face to the precinct - reopening to calm traffic by 2011.
Flinders Street East runs parallel to Palmer Street across the river and boasts and eclectic mix of restaurants, nightclubs, pubs and wine bars. The strip is not only the nightlife precinct of the city; it is an emerging hot spot for diners before meeting friends for an evening out on the town.
Palmer Street is located on the south bank of Ross River in the CBD and captures the essence of international cuisine and metropolitan accommodation. Boasting award-winning restaurants for breakfast, lunch or dinner, Palmer Street offers mouth-watering flavours guaranteed to tantalise your taste buds. Whether you fancy Indian, Asian, Italian, Greek, French, Mexican, modern Australian or locally-caught seafood, a visit to Townsville's premium eat street is a must. The central location offers proximity to public transport, the city's vibrant nightlife hub and gorgeous views across Ross Marina.
The Strand is one of Townsville's great cultural highlights. This spectacular waterfront promenade is perfect for families or for those waiting to soak up Townsville's laid back tropical atmosphere. This 2.2km, palm tree-studded stretch is adorned with bike and walkway paths, safe swimming beaches, picturesque picnic spots, a water park and chic restaurants and bars with breathtaking views. You can enjoy the free family fun of water park, fish off the pier, dine at ones of the many eateries or restaurants, or simply laze on the multi award-winning beach and enjoy the million dollar view to Magnetic Island.
Gregory Street offers a cosmopolitan village atmosphere adjoining the award-winning Strand. With exclusive boutique shopping and open-air-cafe dining, it is the perfect stop for lunch or coffee and cake after a long day exploring Townsville's CBD.
Bowen Road is a hub of hotel and motel accommodation located within a short drive of the city centre. Conveniently situated within a close distance to both the city and the highway, Bowen Road is a convenient area to find accommodation in Townsville.
Regional Precincts
Magnetic Island (Maggie) is Townsville's tropical island paradise, separated from the mainland by an 8km stretch of water across Cleveland Bay. With pristine uncrowded beaches, turquoise blue waters, abundant wildlife and a friendly community atmosphere, it's easy to see why the attraction really is magnetic.
With two thirds protected national park, Magnetic Island is home to some amazing experiences that are guaranteed to draw you back again and again. Those travelling by passenger ferry will find a range of transport options upon arrival including public bus services and car/scooter hire. Alternatively, a passenger/car barge offers the opportunity to explore the island in the comfort of your own vehicle. Both services offer day and evening trips for your convenience. With 23 beaches and bays, Magnetic Island has the natural beauty and serenity of an untouched paradise, as well as all the luxuries of today's modern cities.
Nestled in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and surrounded by fringing reefs, Magnetic Island is well equipped for a range of water activities. You could also spend you time sampling the fine local art, keeping an eye out for local koalas that live on the Island or, of course relaxing on the glorious beaches.
Getting around Townsville
The Festival's concert venues are centrally located. Patrons can catch the Festival bus. Venue information and the Festival bus timetable is available at the bottom of this page.
Visiting and Staying In Townsville
For information on accommodation options in Townsville, we recommend www.townsvilleholidays.info or contact Townsville Enterprise on 1 800 801 902 or visit www.townsvilleonline.com.au.
For information on packages please visit http://www.sunferries.com.au/packages.asp or phone sunferries on 4771 3855
