Townsville’s got a knack for bringing families together, and that includes the four-legged members too. Between palm-fringed beaches, riverside parklands and off-leash coastal stretches, this tropical city knows how to do sunshine, playtime and relaxation all in one hit. Whether you’re wrangling toddlers, teens or terriers, Townsville’s outdoors is wide open for adventure.

The Strand
It’s Townsville’s showpiece for good reason. Stretching 2.2 kilometres along the coast, The Strand is where locals picnic, stroll, cycle and swim with the Coral Sea as a backdrop. Kids can cool off at the free water park or the calm Rockpool lagoon, while parents claim a shady patch on the foreshore lawns. Cafés, BBQs and playgrounds make it easy to settle in for the day. Dogs are welcome on-leash along the promenade, so everyone gets a slice of sea breeze.

Ross River Parklands/Riverway
For families who prefer grass to sand, Ross River Parklands is the answer. Set along the Ross River, this green corridor weaves through parklands, walking tracks and shady picnic pockets. The twin lagoon pools are a hit with younger kids, while older ones can bike the trails or explore the art installations dotted along the river. There’s space to throw a ball, fire up a BBQ, or simply sprawl under the trees. With designated off-leash areas nearby, even the dog can join the fun.

Pallarenda Dog Beach
When it’s the pup’s turn to shine, Pallarenda is the spot. A short drive from the city, this sweeping coastal reserve offers one of North Queensland’s only official off-leash beaches. Between access points 8 and 9, dogs can sprint across the sand or plunge into the shallows while family's picnic under casuarina trees. The views across to Magnetic Island make it feel like a mini escape, minus the ferry ride. Bring water, shade and a watchful eye—this is tropical Queensland, after all.

Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park
Right next door, Cape Pallarenda offers hiking trails, WWII bunkers to explore and panoramic views over the city and island. Dogs aren’t allowed inside the conservation park itself, but the foreshore areas outside the boundary make a fine picnic stop.

Handy Tips
Townsville’s heat is no joke, so go early or late in the day, pack shade, and keep both kids and canines hydrated. Stinger season runs November to May, so stick to patrolled or enclosed swimming areas. With its mix of beaches, rivers and parks, Townsville proves family fun doesn’t need to be complicated.

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Tucked along Cartwright Street, Fiori With Loveblends the charm of a florist with the comfort of a café, creating adestination that delights all the senses. Step inside and you’regreeted by the fragrance of fresh flowers mingling with the richaroma of Colombian coffee, setting the stage for a unique experience.

What began as a florist on Cartwright Street hasblossomed into a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike. The menu,while small, is fresh, homemade, and filled with favourites. Thinkfluffy pumpkin scones with jam and cream, colourful smoothies, freshjuices, and house-made cakes. For breakfast or lunch, the focus is onwholesome ingredients, with herbs grown on site adding flavour toevery plate.

Beyond the food, the space is alive with blooms,homewares, and thoughtful gifts, making each visit feel like adiscovery. It’s also a much-loved spot for celebrations, with anintimate side room perfect for high teas, birthdays, and gatheringswhere laughter and good food flow freely.

Whether you’re chasing a great coffee, a specialgift, or simply a warm atmosphere, Fiori With Love is an Ingham gemthat captures the beauty of slowing down and smelling the roses.

https://www.fioriwithlove.com.au/| https://www.facebook.com/fioriwithlove/

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Halfway between Townsville and Cairns lies a town that dances to its own rhythm, a blend of European charm, Indigenous heritage, and Tropical wonder.
Cruising down the Bruce Highway located about 115 kilometres north of Townsville, the world begins to shift. The air feels thicker with stories, the greens grow deeper, and the pace of life gradually slows.  As you pass through corridors of sugar cane fields and ancient rainforest fringed roads, a town quietly tucked beneath the mountains invites you to stay a little longer.  This is Ingham.
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 buckets 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.
Ingham isn’t about ticking boxes, it’s about connection. To culture, to nature, to stories written in both stone and song. It’s the kind of place that invites you in with a glass of Prosecco and a plate of olives and leaves you wondering why more people haven’t discovered it yet.  So don’t just drive through on your way to somewhere else. Stop. Wander the streets. Soak in the slower tempo. Because Ingham is the kind of place that doesn’t shout for your attention, but rewards those who give it.  It’s the Hinchinbrook Way!

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Ingham is home to many hidden gems, but few capture the essence of the region quite like Wild Local. More than just a seafood shop, this family-run and proudly local business has become a showcase of Hinchinbrook’s abundance. Wild Local has become a must-stop destination for travellers and a favourite for locals who know that nothing beats the taste of fresh, wild-caught North Queensland seafood.
Step inside and you’ll find the very best our region has to offer as the bountiful displays speak for themselves: gleaming fresh fillets, an extensive frozen range, and seasonal specialties that highlight the waters and coastline shaping our community. Whether you are planning a barbecue feast, a weekend dinner, or a quick family meal, Wild Local makes it easy to bring the best of the region straight to your plate.
The café side of Wild Local has become just as popular. Open seven days a week, it serves everything from classic fish and chips to wholesome meals perfect for a mid-journey stop. For those with a sweet tooth, the creamy ice cream in fantastical flavours is a highlight, while freshly roasted coffee and gourmet pantry staples make it hard to leave empty-handed.
What makes Wild Local stand out is its commitment to celebrating place as much as produce. Every item on the shelves and menu tells a story of connection to Hinchinbrook’s waterways, farms, and small producers. It is a space where food becomes more than a meal: it becomes a link to the people and landscapes that define North Queensland living.
Next time you’re in Ingham, discover Wild Local, and take home more than just seafood – take home a piece of Hinchinbrook.

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Mission Beach
Begin with a sunrise walk along golden sands, where rainforest meets the sea and cassowaries sometimes roam.
Dunk Island
Catch a boat to hike lush trails, snorkel vibrant reefs, and unwind on secluded beaches.
Mamu Tropical Skywalk
Glide above the rainforest canopy on elevated walkways with breathtaking valley views.
Cardwell Spa Pool
Take a refreshing dip in this natural pool, famous for its striking turquoise waters.
Hinchinbrook Island
Explore part of the Thorsborne Trail or marvel at the raw beauty of this wilderness island.
Babinda Boulders
Swim in crystal-clear waters surrounded by granite boulders and lush rainforest.
Josephine Falls
Enjoy cascading waterfalls and natural rock slides in a stunning rainforest setting.
Paronella Park
Step back in time at this heritage-listed Spanish-style castle, where nature has intertwined with history.

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Discover The Cassowary Coast
A Nature-Lover’s Tropical Escape

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Between Cairns and Townsville lies the Cassowary Coast, where the lush Wet Tropics Rainforest meets the sparkling Great Barrier Reef, creating a destination brimming with adventure, wildlife, and serenity.
Your journey begins with 14 kilometres of palm-fringed beaches stretching from Bingil Bay through Mission Beach to South Mission Beach, ideal for coastal walks, beach lounging, or reef-bound paddling. Just offshore, Hinchinbrook and Dunk Islands offer island magic with forested trails, secluded beaches, and camping opportunities in a near-pristine setting. Hinchinbrook is home to the legendary 32 kilometre Thorsborne Trail, considered one of Australia’s greatest coastal hikes.
Venture inland to explore the ancient Wet Tropics Rainforest filled with towering trees, vibrant birdlife, and rich biodiversity. At the Mamu Tropical Skywalk, you can glide above the canopy and immerse yourself in this prehistoric wonderland. For a refreshing detour, stop by the Cardwell Spa Pool’s striking blue waters or hike the scenic Gorrell Track and Coastal Walking Track for rainforest views and dramatic ocean vistas.
Spotting a southern cassowary, a large, endangered, flightless bird, is a rare highlight here. These iconic rainforest dwellers roam from forest edges to beaches, giving this region its evocative name.
For foodies and market-lovers, the journey south from Cairns is peppered with fresh produce stands and cafés serving local specialties. Stop at Babinda Bakery for delicious buns or try gourmet vanilla products at Broken Nose Vanilla closer to Cardwell.
Luxurious rest stops blend seamlessly with wild beauty. The recently rejuvenated Elandra Hotel offers upscale rooms, a day spa and contemporary Southeast Asian cuisine using local produce.
Whether you are craving immersive hikes, wildlife encounters, coastal calm, or gourmet comfort, the Cassowary Coast invites you to unwind, explore, and discover the wild heart of Far North Queensland.

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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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