More Information
A handy guide to holidaying in North Queensland
Climate
Temperatures in North Queensland are generally moderate with summer ranging from 22-32 degrees Celsius and winter temperatures 14-26 degrees. Light, casual clothing is recommended in summer, while the winter season may require slightly warmer clothing. The wet season is typically January-March. Click here for an update of weather conditions in our region.
Safety
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North Queensland is a very safe holiday destination, however sensible care and safety should be exercised at all times.
Sun safety: Living in a sunny climate means you have to protect your skin from the sun’s ultra violet (UV) rays. Protect your skin by wearing a hat while outdoors and using an appropriate sunscreen lotion. It is generally recommended to avoid prolonged periods in the sun between 10am-2pm when the sun’s UV rays are their strongest.
Stinger Awareness: The Townsville Strand offers two stinger enclosure areas for safe swimming during the stinger season. Magnetic Island has three stinger nets, Balgal Beach in Thuringowa’s Northern Beaches district also has a stinger net, as does Forrest Beach near Ingham and Alva Beach in the Burdekin. For Information on the stinger season, click here or grab a copy of the Stinger Awareness Brochure from a local Visitor Information Centre or local Surf Life Saving Club. Always check with the local lifeguards about stinger net locations/seasons and the hours of patrol along these beaches.
For further information on safety in Queensland, click here. |
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General Information
Banks & Currency - All major banks are open from 9am-4pm Monday-Thursday and 9am-5pm Fridays. ATMs are located throughout the city centre, shopping centres, hotels and facilities. Currency exchange is available at most banks and larger hotel establishments.
* Supermarkets only are open to 9pm Mon-Fri. Specialty stores usually close at 5pm and 9pm on Thursdays.
Medical - The Townsville Hospital (Douglas) offers 24-hour emergency care, whilst a number of medical centres operate throughout the city. There are also two, well equipped private hospitals, the Mater Misericordiae and the Wesley Park Haven.
Access - Townsville is very well serviced by air, rail, road and cruise operations. Click here for more information.
Great Barrier Reef, Fishing & Diving
One of the seven wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef is a‘must-do’ holiday experience in North Queensland. Glorious, pristine areas of the Great Barrier Reef are accessible via day trips and extended cruises from Townsville, Magnetic Island, Cardwell and Mission Beach. Diving expeditions (day trips and extended itineraries) are also available from Townsville. For more information visit the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority or Townsville Enterprise.
Eco Tourism / Wet Tropics / Birdwatching
North Queensland is a paradise for eco-tourism. From incredible bird life (Townsville Town Common, Cromarty Wetlands, Paluma rainforest) through to the pristine wilderness of the wet tropics and amazing flora and fauna ? the region is diverse and rich in environmental delights. For further information on eco-tourism experiences in all areas of North Queensland, visit Queensland Parks & Wildlife Service and Wet Tropics Management Authority.
Access Friendly
We consider ourselves "access friendly" in North Queensland and visitors with special needs are warmly welcomed. We have a range of accommodation properties, attractions, services and facilities that are functional for visitors with special needs. For a guide to access friendly operators and establishments, call Townsville Enterprise on 1800 801 902 or click here for further information.
Education Tourism
North Queensland is a becoming an increasingly popular education centre ? due not only to the quality educational institutions that are available, but also to the wonderful lifestyle that comes with living, studying and working in this region. The following educational institutions are available in North Queensland:
- James Cook University
- Barrier Reef Institute of TAFE
- Australian College of Tropical Agriculture
- Private secondary schools and boarding schools both in the city and in the smaller centres of the region.
For further information on educational opportunities in North Queensland contact Townsville Enterprise on 1800 801 902 or visit our Study Townsville website.
