From gourmet gelato to classic fish and chips, a plethora of eateries await to entice epicureans who delight in dining with a view. Drink in the panorama of Magnetic Island while sipping on coffee, then take a walk along the waterfront esplanade to take a dip in the rockpools to rest and refresh.

Locals Tip: Waterfront dining reimagined can be found along the riverfront, it’s not only the Strand that offers magical views and delicious food. Boasting a mix of sleek modern restaurants, hidden coffee delights in a laneway, a specialty whiskey bar and historical pubs, the stylish yet relaxed atmosphere strikes the perfect tone for you to linger over a lazy lunch or an intimate dinner with family and friends.

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Immerse yourself in the depths of the Great Barrier Reef and uncover a truly unique experience. Townsville is home to the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA). MOUA, created in collaboration with renowned underwater sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor, stands as a beacon of reef conservation, restoration, and education, while also honouring the First Nations people of the region.

The striking installation, "Ocean Siren," rises from the waters along The Strand, reacting to real-time changes in water temperature. The second installation, "Coral Greenhouse," is situated on John Brewer Reef, a two-hour boat journey from Townsville. Here, snorkelers and divers can explore and admire the vibrant marine life that thrives around this extraordinary underwater artwork.

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Northwest of Townsville, venture into the vibrant and verdant Paluma Range National Park, the southern gateway to the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Along the Paluma Range Highway, take time to refresh at Little Crystal Creek and Big Crystal Creek, both perfect locations to stop for a picnic lunch, bushwalk, and swim. Big Crystal Creek has a large swimming hole and spacious picnic area. Little Crystal Creek is famous for its historic stone arch bridge built in the 1930s. Cascades tumble down from under the bridge into one of the best freshwater swimming holes accessible from Townsville.

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Combine military history and a vibrant art scene with golden beaches and offshore islands, sprinkle with more than 300 days of sunshine each year, and add a dollop of desirable restaurants, and you’ll have a recipe for Townsville, an exciting and sultry location to experience tropical North Queensland. This tropical nirvana offers a dazzling array of experiences, from thrilling sports events and historic shipwrecks to tranquil nature walks and gourmet dining.

No matter the weather, it’s easy to see how Townsville shines year-round.

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Jimmy Rees - Let's Get Regional Tour

Frontier Touring is thrilled to bring Australian entertainer Jimmy Rees back to the stage in 2024 with his Let’s Get Regional tour! Known for his hilarious performances and dynamic stage presence, Jimmy is ready to charm audiences in regional towns across Australia. After the phenomenal success of his Not That Kinda Viral tour, which expanded from 12 to 24 shows due to popular demand, Jimmy will be visiting Townsville on Saturday, 13 July.

What: Jimmy Rees | Let's Get Regional Tour

Where: Townsville Civic Theatre, 41 Boundary Street, South Townsville

When: Saturday, 13 July 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:15 PM

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NQ Cowboys vs Brisbane Broncos

The Ultimate Queensland Clash!

Arguably one of the biggest rivalries in the NRL, the North Queensland Cowboys face off against the Brisbane Broncos in what promises to be an electrifying match. Set your calendar for Saturday, 10 August 2024, and head to Queensland Country Bank Stadium to witness this ultimate Queensland clash.

Gates open at 2:50 PM, giving fans plenty of time to soak up the pre-game atmosphere before the 5:30 PM kickoff.

What: NQ Cowboys vs Brisbane Broncos

Where: Queensland Country Bank Stadium, 2 Pride Close, Railway Estate

When: Saturday, 10 August 2024, 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM

Tickets: From $26.43

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Tones and I - Australia/New Zealand Tour

Following a massive 20-date stadium tour supporting P!nk, Tones is ready to captivate audiences with her electrifying live performances. The tour features new songs from her sophomore album alongside fan favourites like "Dance Monkey," "Fly Away," "Cloudy Day," and "Never Seen The Rain." This is a night not to be missed from the multi-ARIA-award winner renowned for her masterful songwriting and dynamic stage presence.

The Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre will host Tones and I on Saturday, 31 August, and Sunday, 1 September 2024. With the box office and food and beverage outlets opening at 6 PM, fans can enjoy the pre-show atmosphere before the doors open at 7 PM. The event kicks off at 8 PM and concludes at 10:50 PM.

What: Tones and I - Australia/New Zealand Tour

Where: Townsville Entertainment Centre, Entertainment Road

When: Saturday, 31 August and Sunday 1 September 2024, 8:00 PM – 10:50 PM

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Sitting north of Townsville, Paluma Range National Park offers the epitome of North Queensland’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Covering over 90,000 hectares, this lush expanse of tropical rainforest, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Explore these captivating activities and pristine wilderness.

Explore The Paluma Township

Nestled amidst the verdant splendour of Paluma Range National Park, the charming township of Paluma offers a delightful array of activities for visitors to enjoy. Wander through the quaint streets lined with historic buildings, browse local art galleries, and indulge in delicious treats at cozy cafes. Explore the surrounding rainforest on scenic walking trails, marvel at panoramic views from lookouts, or embark on a guided tour to uncover the area's rich cultural and natural heritage. With its tranquil ambiance and stunning scenery, Paluma invites you to unwind and immerse yourself in the beauty of Queensland's tropical paradise.

Discover Crystal Creek

Embark on a journey to Crystal Creek, a picturesque oasis renowned for its sparkling clear waters and serene ambiance. Whether you're seeking a refreshing swim, a leisurely picnic, or a scenic bushwalk, Crystal Creek has something for everyone. Take a dip in the cool, crystalline pools surrounded by verdant foliage, or traverse the network of walking trails that meander through the surrounding rainforest. Keep an eye out for native bird species and vibrant butterflies fluttering amidst the trees as you immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this idyllic natural paradise.

Conquer The Cloudy Creek Falls Track

For those craving a bit of adventure, the Cloudy Creek Falls Track promises an exhilarating trek through Paluma's rugged terrain. This moderate hiking trail, which starts and finishes in Paluma township via McClellands and Witts lookouts, winds its way through lush rainforest, offering stunning vistas of cascading waterfalls, verdant valleys, and rugged cliffs along the way. Be prepared to navigate rocky terrain and steep inclines as you make your way to the magnificent Cloudy Creek Falls, where you can bask in the beauty of nature's raw power. Don't forget to pack plenty of water, snacks, and your camera to capture the awe-inspiring scenery that awaits around every bend.

Take In The Birdlife At Jourama Falls

Jourama Falls is a must-visit destination for birdwatching enthusiasts eager to catch a glimpse of the park's diverse avian inhabitants. Lace up your hiking boots and venture along the Jourama Falls Track, a scenic trail that leads you through lush rainforest teeming with birdlife. Keep your eyes peeled for colourful species such as the crimson rosella, the pied monarch, and the iconic Australian kingfisher as they flit among the trees in search of food and shelter. With over 200 bird species calling Paluma Range National Park home, every step along the trail offers a chance to encounter nature's feathered wonders in their natural habitat.

Sleep Under The Stars

Less than an hour and a half north of Townsville, Paluma provides the perfect opportunity for action-packed day trips, but to fully immerse yourself in the adventure on offer, one must stay the night at one of the many beautiful accommodation options. There are two designated camping areas with facilities in Paluma Range National Park, the Big Crystal Creek camping area and the Jourama Falls camping area. Remote bush camping for experienced bushwalkers is also available at Mount Spec and Mount Halifax and other camping and accommodation facilities can be found in the township and throughout the area.

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Aperitivo with Uniworld – A Wine Tasting Through Europe

Wednesday, May 22

Townsville  Brewing Co

During this special wine tasting event, you'll meet travel experts who will share stories of unrivalled elegance and the exceptional experiences that await you when travelling on a Uniworld Boutique River Cruise.

Taste the specially selected wines that will take you on a journey across key wine regions along the finest rivers of Europe.

Whether you're a seasoned traveller seeking your next extraordinary adventure or simply curious about the world of luxury river cruising, this event will leave you feeling inspired. Tickets are available now.

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Townsville Pop Fest 2024

Sunday, 9 June

Townsville Stadium

Townsville Pop Fest is a vibrant local pop culture convention held in the sunny city of Townsville. Organised by Hone Events, this event celebrates all things nerdy and geeky, bringing together enthusiasts from various fandoms.

Townsville Pop Fest fosters a sense of community among fans who share a passion for their favourite franchises. It’s a space where fans can connect, express their fandom, and celebrate their love for all things geeky.

Whether you’re a seasoned cosplayer, a comic book aficionado, or simply someone who enjoys the magic of live, local events, Townsville Pop Fest promises an exciting and memorable experience.

For more information, visit the official Townsville Pop Fest Website.

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Whimsical Sculpture Workshop with Lisa Ashcroft

Sunday, 16 June

Murky Waters Studio

Get your creative juices flowing at this hands-on event where you'll learn to craft unique sculptures with a touch of whimsy. No experience necessary - just bring your imagination!

The workshop will be held at Murky Waters Studio, a space perfect for getting in touch with your artistic side.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to create something truly special with guidance from the talented Lisa Ashcroft. Materials provided, just bring your smile, an apron and water bottle.

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