Townsville

Townsville was founded in 1864 for its economic benefits as a port. It later developed and grew thanks to the discovery of gold at Ravenswood, Charters Towers and the military invasion.

Townsville has a very unique Australian tropical character. It combines the benefits and attractions of tropics with the comfort of a major city. The residents are known to enjoy sunshine for around 300 days in a year thus making it a very attractive destination.

Visitors to Townsville can experience the rainforests, national parks, waterfalls, tropical islands, ship wrecks etc. And of course, links to the Great Barrier Reef also makes Townsville a very attractive hub.

There are various tours that operate out of Townsville that cover all aspects of the area such as food and wine, wild life, scenery and aboriginal culture. Tourists can experience breathtaking views and gain an insight into the military history of the region from Castle Hill.

National Trust Heritage Centre is also a major attraction with the collection of three heritage houses restored and furnished to the period. With the efforts of the officials and the residents, many other buildings in the area are also restored with their original characteristics.

Another major attraction from the National Trust is the Charters Towers’ museum. Visitors can experience a demonstration of an aerial cash system (popularly known as the flying fox) and also have a look at the half knitted socks displayed as it was left by a mother once she learned of her son being killed in a war.