Oh Wow! Those are the two most common words guests say as they arrive at Vista Hinchinbrook.
After the steep drive through the rainforest, stroll along our side deck and past the beautiful pond. Then, as you step onto the front deck, the Hinchinbrook Channel bursts into view. Glory in the unique panorama of this World Heritage listed area adjoining Girringun National Park.
This is your breakfast arena, or perhaps you have come for one of our famed High Teas. Here, the sweeping outlook of one of the best views in North Queensland, pairs perfectly with homemade savouries, decadent cakes, and locally sourced tea and coffee. There is no rush to leave. Take your time, relax with friends, and enjoy a beer or wine from our bar.
Of course, you might be arriving for a night’s stay in one of our four luxury units. Perhaps a cabin tucked back among the rainforest, designed for comfort and seclusion. Or for a romantic escape, you may have reserved the Mahogany Cabin. Perched towards the front of the property, this stunningly designed apartment, offers all you need, from the king bed where you will wake to uninterrupted panoramic views, to the bathroom… well, we will let you discover that for yourself.
Maybe you are one of the growing number of guests here for a special event. Whether private or corporate, our large deck means we can tailor the space to fit your needs.
And then, those words again: Oh Wow! You have come for a wedding. With this backdrop, your day will be truly unforgettable.
Do not miss the chance to make your special event extraordinary. Contact us, or better yet, pop up to see us in person, we would love to meet you.

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Whether you’re making your way up the East Coast or putting your feet up in Townsville for a wonderful weekend escape, there are plenty of delicious delights to explore in and around the bustling and up-and-coming seaside city that your tastebuds deserve to experience! Rather than pencil you in for a single reservation, here’s a guide to neighbourhoods, and hot spots where eating is as much about the place as it is the plate…

The Strand

Right on the city’s doorstep lies the sandy shore of The Strand where eating, sunbathing and strolling all exist in perfect harmony. Picture starting out your day with a beachside acai bowl topped with fresh fruit and raw honey whilst sipping your way through an ice-cold latte as joggers and morning walkers pass you by. As the temperatures begin to climb, the shade of the trees lining the 2.2-kilometre-long pathway will provide the perfect cover for a blissful picnic by the waves, complete with a smorgasbord of classic fish and chips, fresh prawns, and tropical fruits from local vendors around the area.

The location’s abundance of free barbeque spaces allows for late afternoons to become a hive of grilling activity, and the selection of high-quality butchers neighbouring the strip will leave you overwhelmed with delicious options. As the sun begins to set, the esplanade transforms into a grazing trail overflowing with hot chips and quick bites, gelato strolls along the foreshore, and vibrant sunset platters topped with mango, pineapple, and lime – perfection!

The Laneway

Take a wander a block back from the waterfront and you’ll discover Townsville’s laneway culture, featuring aesthetic courtyards and mural-splashed alleyways tucked neatly away from the busy city streets. A shire first, the Laneway precinct offers a sophisticated, New York City experience where patrons can indulge in share plates, pop-up menus, and craft sips – ideal for causal grazing with friends.

No two occasions will be the same as the area runs off rotating specials built around the picks of the local trawlers and growers – think coral trout sliders one day, grilled vegetable flatbread the next, complete with native herbs like lemon myrtle. The Laneway exists as the type of place where you simply follow your nose, or the fairy lights, to guide you to your next unforgettable plate.

Markets

Sunday strolls through Townsville’s iconic Cotters Market will have you indulging in homegrown favourites and handcrafted delights from 8:30am right through until 1pm each and every week at Flinders Square. A treasured weekly event, Cotters Market have been treating locals and travellers alike to a buffet of spectacular stalls since 1983 and will leave you with a deep love and appreciation for Townsville’s rich sense of community. Suitable for all ages, all abilities, and all breeds (pet friendly), the market prides itself on serving up delicious delights to suit all dietary needs including gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian – what more could you ask for!

Farm to Table
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Immerse yourself in the rich, rural, rainforest-rimmed high country of Townsville’s surrounding areas as you journey inland to experience a true, authentic farm to table dining experience like no other. On your journey to the surrounds of Paluma, or the rolling cane fields towards the Burdekin, stop and enjoy the roadside stalls retailing fresh mangoes, halved watermelons, or leafy greens, freshly picked and ready to eat.

In Townsville, the abundance of culinary destinations will leave your mouth watering with anticipation, and your heart longing for your next journey to the North-Eastern costal city. With so many irresistible options to choose from, you may just need to set aside some holiday time to experience them all… twice!

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Forget the fancy guidebooks—if you really want to taste a town, follow the locals. In Home Hill, the food story plays out along the Main Street, where family-owned spots dish up big flavours, hearty feeds and plenty of character. From seafood rolls to steak burgers, here’s where to eat like a local.

The Prawn Shop
It’s hard to walk past this one. Famous for its prawn rolls—the kind that made national television—The Prawn Shop is seafood royalty in the Burdekin. The menu dives deeper, with crab and lobster rolls, gluten-free options and fresh local produce that keeps the flavour front and centre.

Marzay’s Corner
A Home Hill staple, Marzay’s serves the kind of comfort food that hits the spot every time. Think pizzas, burgers, hot dogs, steak burgers, fish and wraps—the works. It’s casual, reliable, and the perfect place to roll in hungry and roll out satisfied.

Giovanna’s Cucina
Ask around the Burdekin and everyone knows about Giovanna’s lasagne. This family-run Italian kitchen has a reputation that stretches well beyond Main Street, with travellers stopping in for hearty plates of pasta, traditional flavours, and a menu cooked with care. If you want Italian like Nonna makes, this is where you’ll find it.

Dee & Vee’s Takeaway
Eleven years strong, Dee & Vee’s is the no-fuss takeaway joint locals swear by. The menu is short, sharp and perfect: fish, chips, burgers. Done. Their steak burgers are the stuff of local legend, and there’s a reason this little shop has been feeding Home Hill for over a decade.

Home Hill News
More than just your average newsagent. Coffee, brekkie bites, sweet treats and a spot to sit inside for a chat—Home Hill News is where locals fuel up in the morning or break up the day. It’s as much about the yarns as the cappuccinos, and that’s exactly what makes it feel like home.

So, next time you’re in Home Hill, skip the highway stopovers. Wander Main Street, follow your nose, and eat like a local.

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Sip, Shop & Smell the Roses

In the heart of Ingham, Fiori With Love is more than a florist. It’s a warm and welcoming hub where the scent of fresh flowers meets the aroma of locally roasted Colombian coffee. This unique fusion of café and florist creates an atmosphere that’s hard to match, offering visitors the perfect blend of comfort and beauty.

Whether you’re dropping in for an all-day breakfast made with fresh, organic ingredients or taking your meal to go, there’s something to satisfy every craving. The menu offers a thoughtful selection of house-made cakes, sweet and savoury treats, along with vegetarian and gluten-free options. Pair it with a perfectly brewed Colombian coffee or a specialty tea sourced from around the world, and you’re set for a delicious start to your day or a snack for in-between.

What truly sets Fiori With Love apart, however, is its ability to combine all the things we love: good food, fresh flowers, and thoughtful gifting. Their shelves are constantly updated with new and unique homewares, gifts and decorative pieces, giving every visit a sense of delightful discovery. From freshly baked cakes to seasonal tableware, there’s always something special to take home or share with loved ones.

Florals remain at the heart of the business, with delivery options available across the Hinchinbrook district and as far as Townsville.

Need flowers sent further afield? No problem as Fiori With Love can organise delivery Australia-wide, making it a reliable choice for life’s big moments, near or far.

After years of building something truly special, the current owners are looking for someone to carry the torch. If you’ve dreamed of running a vibrant, creative business rooted in community and quality, this could be your perfect opportunity.

Interested? Reach out to Louise at 0407 166 186 or email louise@fioriwithlove.com.au and step into something beautiful.

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Reeling in the best of North Queensland’s fishing and boating scene

If you’re into fishing and boating, the Burdekin should be at the top of your bucket list. Tucked between Townsville and Bowen in North Queensland, it’s a place where creeks, rivers and reef all come together. With boat ramps across the region and fish in every direction, it’s less about finding the right spot, and more about choosing which great one to try first.

Cast Off From Anywhere

With eight public boat ramps across the shire, getting on the water is easy—whether you're after a lazy creek session or a run out to the reef.

Cromarty Boat Ramp leads into the Haughton River, famous for barramundi but just as good for whiting, flathead and grunter. Just a little further north, Barramundi Creek (a.k.a. Morris’s Creek) and Barratta Creek are barra and mud crab favourites. For offshore access, Ocean Creek is your best bet—just 13km from Ayr and known for mangrove jack, barra and crabs.

Closer to town, Plantation Creek and Hell Hole ramps offer solid bream, whiting and jack. Over in Home Hill, Groper Creek and Wallace Creek are net-free zones packed with prawns, grunter, barra and more.

No Boat? No Problem.

Land-based fishing in the Burdekin is just as good. Groper Creek has a public jetty perfect for throwing a line or cast net. Lynch’s Beach at Alva (14km from Ayr) is a 4WD-accessible flathead and salmon haven. For something more remote, Wunjunga Beach is wild, beautiful, and full of fish.

There’s also the mighty Burdekin River—and inland, Lake Dalrymple’s stocked with barra, cod, grunter and more. Just be sure to grab a permit.

So, whether you're chasing barra in a shaded creek, tossing a net off a jetty, or heading out to the reef with an esky full of drinks and a boatload of optimism, the Burdekin is one of the best places in Queensland to drop your line.

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Footy, Fish, Frothies And A Few Fancy Fillies

When the work boots come off and the weekend beckons, there’s no better place for a full-throttle boys’ getaway than Townsville. It’s the kind of place where the sun shines, the beers are cold, the steaks are sizzling, and the nightlife pumps harder than your mate's chest after his third espresso martini. Whether you’re here for the footy, the fillies, or just some good old-fashioned bloke bonding, here’s how to make the most of your Townsville boys’ weekend.

Footy Fever: Cowboys Country

Get ready to scream yourself hoarse – because it’s Cowboys time, baby. There’s nothing like watching the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys thunder across Queensland Country Bank Stadium in their 30th anniversary year.

With a rowdy local crowd and a stadium that echoes like a war drum, this is NRL energy turned up to eleven.

Key Home Games:

• July 25: Cowboys v Dragons – 6:00pm

• August 17: Cowboys v Knights – 4:05pm

• August 30: Cowboys v Broncos – 7:35pm (lock in that one – it’s going to be wild)

Grab your mates, paint your face (optional but encouraged), and let Todd Payten’s boys do the talking. Then hit the town for post-game debriefs over schooners and steak.

Saddle Up: Townsville Cup Day

Nothing says “boys’ weekend” like sinking tins trackside in your best button-up and aviators. The Ladbrokes Townsville Cup at Cluden Park (August 9) is North Queensland’s answer to the Spring Carnival – just with more humidity and less pretension.

Back a winner, cheer like a legend, and don’t forget to admire the fashion (on the track and off it). Cluden Park mixes old-school heritage charm with modern class – and come Cup Day, the energy’s as rich as the race purses.

Whether you know your trifectas from your tinnies or you’re just here for the atmosphere and the excuses to wear suede shoes, you’ll find your stride at the Townsville Cup.

Bars, Brews & Banter

From craft beer to cocktails, Townsville’s bar scene is no place for amateurs. Kick things off at The Brewery, where you can raise a glass of house-brewed goodness without needing to learn what an IPA actually stands for.

Want music and mateship? Head to Heritage Exchange or Flynn’s Irish Bar on Flinders Street – both loaded with live music, loud laughs, and the kind of pub energy that makes spontaneous karaoke seem like a good idea.

If you’re still vertical and vibing after midnight, Club Dune or The Ville Resort-Casino will keep the night alive with DJs, dancefloors and possibly some questionable decisions.

Bonus Round: Night Owls & Recovery

Too wired to crash? Grab a late-night bite at Cactus Jack’s, or sip a whisky in the low-lit cool of Hooch and Fellow. If you’re lucky, you might even stumble into a poetry slam – or avoid it entirely, your call.

Sunday morning? Cure your sins with salt air and a stroll along The Strand, or just hit up beach yoga if you’re into recovery.

Reel Adventures on the Reef

Fishing charters in Townsville offer the ultimate boys’ weekend addition – a chance to battle serious game fish in some of Australia’s most iconic waters. Whether it’s chasing giant trevally, nannygai or Spanish mackerel out wide, or reef fishing closer to shore, there’s something for every level of angler. Charters range from half-day runs to multi-day liveaboard expeditions, with experienced local crews who know where the fish are biting – and when. Expect early starts, salty banter, and that unbeatable thrill of a line screaming off the reel.

Townsville’s got everything you need for a boys’ trip – footy firepower, thundering hooves at the track, and a nightlife scene that hits harder than a Broncos tackle. So pack your best shirt, round up the lads, and head north for a weekend you’ll still be talking about at next year’s BBQ.

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Nature's Towering Masterpiece

Tucked away in the lush rainforests of Girringun National Park, just 51km south-west of Ingham, Wallaman Falls is the highest, permanent, single-drop waterfall in Australia. This stunning natural wonder sees Stony Creek plunge a dramatic 268 metres into a misty gorge, often framed by rainbows that add to its ethereal beauty. As part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, Wallaman Falls lies within one of the world's oldest rainforest ecosystems and is rich in both biodiversity and Indigenous cultural significance.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from two accessible lookouts, picnic beneath towering trees, or spend the night under the stars at the well-equipped camping area. Wildlife abounds; from platypus and water dragons to possums, bandicoots and the elusive southern cassowary.

For those keen to explore on foot, the easy 800m Banggurru Walk meanders along Stony Creek and offers a family-friendly taste of rainforest life, including a refreshing swimming hole at its end. More adventurous hikers can tackle the Djyinda Walk, a 4km return trail that descends into the gorge, revealing awe-inspiring views of the falls from below. While swimming is not allowed at the base due to cultural and safety reasons, the journey is well worth the effort.

Wallaman Falls is also a photographer’s dream, with dramatic landscapes, shifting light, and abundant wildlife offering endless inspiration. As night falls, the forest comes alive with nocturnal creatures and the sound of frogs echoing through the trees. It’s a destination that rewards those who linger, listen, and truly connect.

Facilities include sheltered picnic areas, toilets, showers, and wheelchair-accessible features (with assistance), ensuring comfort for day-trippers and campers alike. As you wander through the ancient rainforest, you’ll encounter vibrant plant life, from weeping bottlebrushes and towering eucalypts to lush palms and moss-draped trees.

Wallaman Falls is part of the traditional lands of the Warrgamaygan Aboriginal People. 'Nginba Warrgamaygan Ngarji'. The Warrgamaygan People hope you enjoy your visit and respect this sacred place.

Whether you're chasing waterfalls, wildlife or tranquillity, Wallaman Falls offers a remarkable escape into nature at its most powerful and pristine.

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If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting a destination where the reef meets the rainforest, there’s never been a better time to explore the Cassowary Coast. This year, the region came alive in celebration of GBR50, marking 50 years of protecting Australia's own natural wonder, the Great Barrier Reef. What unfolded was nothing short of magical, with a powerful reminder of the deep connection between nature and people, and the importance of safeguarding it.

From the moment guests stepped onto the sands of Dunk Island for the opening cocktail event, it was clear this place is special. With golden sunsets, warm sea breezes, and panoramic views of the Coral Sea, Dunk set the tone for a weekend dedicated to conservation, community, and connection through shared experience.

The Cardwell Chamber of Commerce was proud to be invited to this milestone celebration. With passionate conversations about reef protection, eco-tourism, sustainability initiatives, and the legacy of environmental trailblazers like John Busst, the event reminded us why this region isn’t just a holiday. It’s an awakening for the naturalist inside you.

Local groups, tourism operators, and environmental leaders came together to showcase what makes this coastline so extraordinary. It’s not just the beauty of the great reef or the charm of the small towns, it’s the heartbeat of a community deeply connected to land and sea.

If you haven’t visited yet, consider this your sign. Cardwell, Dunk Island, and the wider Cassowary Coast offer more than a scenic escape. They offer a story worth witnessing firsthand, rich in meaning, history, and natural wonder.

Come see where two World Heritage wonders meet. Discover why the reef’s greatest defenders call this place home. Stay a while and you’ll leave changed.

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At Cardwell Beachcomber Restaurant

If you're travelling along the Cassowary Coast and in search of the perfect place to stop, unwind, and indulge, Cardwell's Beachcomber Restaurant should be your top pick. Perched right on the water’s edge and offering unrivalled views of the Coral Sea and Hinchinbrook Island, this restaurant is not just a place to eat, it’s a destination to savour.

Located right by the Beachcomber Motel and Tourist Park, the restaurant invites you to dine seaside, relax with a drink in hand, and soak up the beauty of one of Far North Queensland’s most spectacular natural backdrops. Whether you're enjoying a romantic dinner for two, hosting a celebration, or stopping in after a long day of travel, the setting alone will leave a lasting impression. But the view is only the beginning!

The food at Beachcomber is nothing short of show-stopping with locally sourced ingredients, a commitment to quality, and a talented team in the kitchen creating a menu that is both exciting and accessible. The restaurant’s reputation is built on dishes like the grilled local barramundi topped with garlic tiger prawns and served on a bed of creamy mash. The portions are generous, and the flavours are bold and memorable.

From casual lunches to elegant evening meals, Beachcomber is fully licensed, air-conditioned, and ideal for functions and events, accommodating up to 180 guests. It's become a sought-after venue for weddings, corporate gatherings, birthday parties, and more, all enhanced by that postcard-perfect ocean view.

Live music events add to the atmosphere, and the adjoining motel makes it easy to stay the night and give yourself a break from cooking. With food that consistently impresses, attentive service, and a setting that could rival any tropical resort, Cardwell's Beachcomber Restaurant is a culinary jewel of the region.

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at Sans Souci Apartments

Ready to get the boys together for a proper break? Sans Souci Apartments in Ingham is the ultimate base for a laid-back lads’ weekend in the stunning Hinchinbrook region. Whether you're planning to reel in a monster barra from the Herbert River or Hinchinbrook Channel, to teeing off at the scenic Ingham Golf Club, everything you need for a top-tier boys’ trip is right here.

Set right in the heart of Ingham, Sans Souci’s art deco apartments blend timeless charm with the comfort and modern convenience. Each one- or two-bedroom apartment is fully self-contained, offering the perfect mix of privacy, space, and style. Enjoy high-speed Wi-Fi, complimentary laundry facilities and private guest parking. Relax and crack a cold one on your private balcony and soak in the serenity of tropical North Queensland.

Sans Souci is the launchpad for action-packed, no-fuss escapes. Centrally positioned so that you’re never far from the action whether you're casting lines, hitting the 18-hole fairway, or exploring tough 4WD tracks, you’re always close to a quality feed, a classic pub with character, and of course a cold beer.

Whether it’s a father-son trip, a long-overdue golf weekend, or a reunion with your oldest friends, Sans Souci Apartments delivers an unbeatable mix of location, comfort and Hinchinbrook hospitality. Gather your gear and call in the mates because the Sans Souci Apartments are ready to host your great weekend trip.

Book in now and make your next getaway one to remember.

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Barb Hill

Barb Hill has been capturing the beauty of nature through her phone camera for as long as she can remember.

But no place has made her as emotional as The Barron Falls. The falls were on her bucket list for some time before she finally got to see them. When she finally made the trip after recent flooding in the north, the sheer power and majesty of the scene overwhelmed her.

“Once I got there, I could see how it was raging in such beauty,” said Barb.

“I was overcome with emotion and awe. I stood there for ages, and probably, a good hour or so.”

When Barb isn’t taking photos, she is heavily involved in the community. She works as a Family Support Facilitator with DrugARM, supporting families from Mackay to the Whitsundays, including Bowen and Collinsville

Beyond DrugARM, Barb is also a founding ambassador for Real Mates Talk, a mental health initiative aimed at preventing suicide by encouraging open conversations, particularly among men.

She also plays an active role in supporting the region’s homeless community.

Each week, Barb participates in outreach events, including barbecues and drop-in sessions, it’s a crucial support centre for those experiencing homelessness.

“It's about connecting and conversations. We are there every week,” said Barb.

“We're there, and people know that we are there at that time.”

In an exciting new venture Barb has created The Y Project, a music initiative that provides a creative outlet for young people while promoting youth suicide prevention. The project hosts live music events and workshops, empowering teens and young adults to express themselves in safe and inspiring ways.

Barb’s enthusiasm is infectious, and it’s clear the combination of photography, community service, and music events fuels her passion for making a difference.

To enter the Tripping Magazine photo comp please send your photos to ruby@lifepublinggroup.com or send to our Instagram or Facebook page.

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Journey into the heart of North Queensland’s sugarcane country to find a warm, community-minded region offering an unexpended blend of outdoor activities, country charm and opportunities for good old-fashioned relaxation.

The Burdekin Shire will serve as a breath of fresh air for those wishing to escape the rush of cityscapes, and with plenty of peaceful gems to discover, you may never want to leave.

Walk The Bridge

No visit to the Burdekin Shire is complete without appreciating the district’s most infamous landmark, the mighty Burdekin Bridge. Stretching just over one kilometre long over the iconic Burdekin River, the bridge walk offers its visitors plenty of fresh air, picturesque views and a look at the edges of both the Ayr and Home Hill communities.

Secret Beachside Escapes

A little way off the beaten track hides Wanjunga Beach, a secluded, 14-kilometre paradise of unspoiled coastline approximately 25 minutes from Ayr. A local gem to many, Wanjunga Beach often hosts four-wheel driving adventures as well as relaxing beach walks, picnics and spectacular sunsets.

Picture Perfect Parklands

The Burdekin Shire homes a collection of gorgeous parks offering everything from convenient amenities and playgrounds to wide, open grass fields. Neighbouring Ayr’s Queen Street, Anzac Park certainly has to be the most visited parks across the entire region, whereby both locals and travellers enjoy an all-ability playground, skatepark and lush greenery. Other notable parks include Home Hill’s Arch Dunn Memorial Park, Giru’s Brolga Park and of course, Ayr’s Plantation Park.

Take A Hike

Located just outside of Home Hill, Mount Inkerman offers a breathtaking blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Visitors can choose between a classic walking trail, a recently upgraded goat track, or a scenic drive, all leading to a stunning lookout at the summit. A leisurely 30-to-45-minute return walk through the area’s native bushland provides the perfect balance of challenge and relaxation.

In the Burdekin, wellness isn't packaged yet it’s woven into everyday life. Here, you’re invited to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect not just with nature, but with yourself. It’s the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of modern life.

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No matter how deep you dive down the wellness rabbit hole, all trails often suggest connecting with the wonderful abundance of natural beauty Queensland is famous for, and what better time to do so than on your next trip away?

If a getaway hosting a balance of fitness and relaxation with a side of tropical scenery sounds appealing, then Townsville is the destination for you! From sunrise to sunset, travelers of all ages and fitness levels can stroll, hike, or run their way across the seaside city whilst indulging in plenty of wellness wonders.

Get Your Steps In

Starting your day with a dose of sunlight has been scientifically proven to increase alertness, boost your mood, lower stress levels and ultimately set your internal clock, so why not pair your morning sunlight with some steps!

What better way to start your holiday than climbing an almost 300-meter-high pink granite monolith? Standing proudly directly in the city’s centre, Castle Hill dominates Townsville’s skyline and hosts 360-degree views of the township across numerous lookouts scattered throughout the hill’s wonderful trails and impressive summit. Select from terrific trails including the winding Cudtheringa Track, Goat Track, Dianella Track, or the wonderous West Ridge and Eythrina Track Loop. This will take you on a a 5-star explorative experience through one of the region’s earliest named sites where you’ll discover over 4,000 years of history whilst uncovering a range of native flora and fauna species.

Stretching Out On The Strand

Stretching 2.2 kilometres, The Strand continues to make waves as Townsville’s most gorgeous beachfront promenade, complete with plenty of palm trees, cafes, playgrounds, and even outdoor fitness stations. A walk, run, bike ride, skate or stroll along this world-class shoreline will not only provide you with a wonderful way to rack up your steps for the day but the fresh salty sea breeze will also serve as the perfect fix to naturally increase your levels of serotonin.

A Cyclist’s Escape

With your holiday hat on, you may be seeking a more secluded workout location, and Townsville’s Mount Stuart Lookout serves as the perfect picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of the northeastern coastal city. Cyclists often bike Mount Stuart Road to enjoy rewarding panoramic views of Townsville, Magnetic Island and Cleveland Bay, whilst hikers choose to take to the trails extending either side of the roadway. No matter your selection, you’re sure to enjoy the 15 or 8.7 kilometre journey.

Island Adventure

Situated directly on Queensland’s northeastern coastline, Townsville neighbours the magical Magnetic Island, a paradise of natural beauty and irresistible relaxation. Journey to Townsville’s city centre to board a short ferry ride across the ocean and welcome a wave of island serenity as soon as you arrive at the terminal before heading out to enjoy a wonderful day at such a treasured and iconic UNESCO Great Barrier Reef World Heritage destination.

Take A Dip

Situated along Townsville’s charming Ross River frontage, Riverway offers a selection of lovely lagoons amongst luscious parklands where visitors can unwind and reconnect to nature whilst enjoying a refreshing dip. With cafés, Pinnacles Gallery, a library and a walk along the river also at your fingertips, Riverway has become a popular precinct within Thuringowa, immersed in tranquillity.

Townsville’s ability to blend tropical charm with city characteristics fosters an active and wellness-focused lifestyle for travellers to indulge in, no matter the season. Whether you’re an avid outdoor explorer or a seaside enjoyer, Townsville deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.

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Mick’s Bread Kitchen

If you're visiting Ingham and need a good pit-stop that delivers more than just a snack, make sure you put Mick’s Bread Kitchen at the top of your list. Nestled on the northern end of town, this locally loved bakery is more than just a place to grab a bite. With a proud history dating back to 1990, owners Mick and Simone have created a warm, welcoming space where quality, tradition, and innovation meet in every mouthful. The true star of the show at Mick’s Bread Kitchen? The pies!

Made entirely from scratch, using locally sourced ingredients, these gourmet pies are a flavour explosion in every bite. Whether you're a traditional meat pie lover or chasing something a little more adventurous, there's a pie here with your name on it. Their signature flaky pastry and perfectly seasoned fillings have earned rave reviews from both locals and travellers. Many visitors say these are among the best pies in North Queensland, with some even planning their route just to stop in for one.

But the deliciousness doesn’t stop there! Mick’s also serves up pastries, sausage rolls, and fresh sandwiches, alongside a wide variety of cakes and slices, fresh baked bread rolls and loaves, and gluten-free options - a rare and appreciated offering for coeliacs who want to enjoy a proper bite while on the road. Their famous vanilla custard slice and fluffy, old-style cream buns regularly wins new fans, while their fruit salads and sushi provide a refreshing, lighter option. Coffee lovers rejoice as the coffee at Mick's is consistently hot, strong, and flavourful, making it the perfect partner to your pastry pick.

Whether you're in for a quick stop, a coffee and cupcake break, or a full tradie-style pie-fuelled lunch, Mick’s Bread Kitchen offers something for everyone with their fast, friendly service, flavour-packed food, and a true taste of local hospitality. It’s no wonder this place is always buzzing with locals and now, it’s your turn to find out why.

@ Mick’s Bread Kitchen

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Nestled just 115 kilometres north of Townsville, Ingham may not be the first name on a Queensland travel itinerary, but those who do stop are often surprised at how hard it is to leave.

The journey there sets the tone. Driving north, the Bruce Highway curves through lush cane fields and flirts with the edges of UNESCO-listed rainforests. Just past the iconic Mango Man at Frosty Mango—a roadside pit stop known for its outlandish fruit ice creams (black sapote that tastes like chocolate pudding? Yes, please)—you arrive in a town that feels like a warm invitation to slow down and stay a while.

More than just a stop along the highway, Ingham is a soulful detour into North Queensland’s cultural heart. Ingham isn’t flashy. It doesn’t try to be. But what it offers is something quite rare: a sense of place that lingers long after the journey ends. This is a region built for postcards and bucket lists with the highest single drop waterfall Wallaman Falls at 268 metres and the Lucinda Jetty, the longest service jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, stretching a staggering 5.76 kilometres out to sea.

Love to fish? You’re in the right place. Cast a line from the pristine beaches along the Hinchinbrook coastline, the Lucinda and Dungeness jetties, or venture into the freshwater reaches of the Herbert River Gorge.

Chase barramundi through the winding Hinchinbrook Channel, or head offshore for bluewater and reef fishing on the Great Barrier Reef. Coveted the world over, Hinchinbrook offers some of the best fishing experiences set amongst picture-postcard scenery. For the adventurers, Lucinda is your gateway to the World Heritage listed Hinchinbrook Island. Take on the legendary Thorsborne Trail, considered one of the world’s best multi-day hikes, for unspoiled beauty and true wilderness immersion.

With a wealth of natural wonders, the Hinchinbrook region is the perfect place to reset your mind, body, and soul. Whether you’re rolling in with a caravan, camper, motorhome or just a tent and a sense of adventure, there’s a camping spot waiting for you. Prefer a few more creature comforts? Ingham and surrounds offer a wide range of stays, from comfy motels and stylish apartments to holiday homes, B&Bs, and classic hotels—whatever your travel style. It’s your adventure.

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