Townsville
Some people think of Townsville as just a stopping off point before reaching the Great Barrier Reef or heading to outback Australia. How wrong can they be! Townsville, Australia is a thriving, bustling tropical city and the unofficial capital of North Queensland.
Townsville offers a unique glimpse into many parts of the Australian environment. If you would like to experience the reef, then visit Reef HQ. This coral reef aquarium provides insight into many of the varied species of fish and coral to be found on the Great Barrier Reef.
Of course, if you want to experience the reef first hand, then you can always take a day trip to one of the islands near Townsville. Magnetic Island is the most popular and well known. Jump onto the Magnetic Island ferry which leaves a number of times a day from Cleveland Bay. From there you can snorkel, bushwalk or enjoy one of the many water sports on offer on Magnetic Island.
Australia is home to a wide variety of native wildlife. To interact with many of these animals, visit the Billabong Sanctuary in Townsville. Here you can cuddle a koala, feed a kangaroo or even be photographed holding a crocodile or snake!
For an insight into the indigenous Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, visit the Brolga Dreaming Cultural Centre.
Townsville boasts its own international casino - Jupiter's Townsville Hotel and Casino and the city plays host to some of the finest dining you will find anywhere in Australia. There are a range of nightclubs, pubs and discos to entertain you until the morning in Townsville.
Townville - a destination in its own right!
