Magnetic IslandIt’s true what they say, the attraction truly is magnetic. Maggie, as 2500 locals affectionately know her, is the perfect island escape. Magnetic Island is a quick ferry ride from the mainland of Townsville and it’s easy to see why the attraction is magnetic. The island is two thirds protected national park and is home to some amazing adventures that are guaranteed to make you wish you’d stayed longer. If you haven’t brought your own vehicle over on the car ferry, the public bus service makes tripping around the island a breeze. With 23 beaches and bays, Magnetic Island has the natural beauty and serenity of untouched paradise and all the luxuries of today’s modern cities. Surrounded by bird life including kookaburras, sulphur-crested cockatoos, red-tailed black cockatoos, brahminy kites and of course the island’s iconic bird, the bush stone-curlew, the only problem you’ll have is finding enough time to experience everything on offer. Nestled in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and surrounded by fringing reefs, Magnetic Island is well equipped for water activities like diving, snorkelling, sailing and jet-skiing. Scenic flights over the island will allow a sneak peak of the more secluded bays and beaches. Keeping your feet firmly on the ground you can see some of the local art at the many galleries, try a hit of golf or tennis, some bush walking and of course, relaxing on the glorious beaches. If you’ve brought your fishing rod across to the island, there are plenty of great spots to cast your line including the historic Picnic Bay jetty. Exotic tropical fish and marine life flourish in the surrounding coral reefs and tranquil waters, meaning tight lines are a common experience not a rarity. The island is the perfect launch pad for reef based activities with reef trips, diving charters and sea kayaking to tranquil bays being popular choices. Chartered fishing trips are available for those wishing to fish the hot spots and get some good tips and advice from the locals. Remember to be up to date with Marine Park Zoning areas. Two thirds of the island, or 5184 hectares is protected national park with walking tracks guiding visitors through thick bushland, ranging from dry wattles and the beautiful barks of eucalypts to pockets of rainforest. With 25kms of trails to explore and being home to Northern Australia ’s largest colony of koalas - the island’s Forts Walk is definitely worth a visit. The Forts Walk is roughly a 90 minute return walk and is the best place on the island to see koalas in the wild.You’ll increase your chance of seeing them early morning or late evening, so don’t forget your camera, water, hat and sunscreen. The Forts Walk offers magical 360 degree views of the coast and Coral Sea . There is also some fascinating WWII history worth seeing, with the Forts gun emplacements still intact. The island’s national park is also home to a large colony of rock wallabies and it’s these world class bush walks on the island that allow native Australian animals to be viewed up close in their natural habitats. Staying nourished and hydrated on Magnetic Island is no problem, there’s always a restaurant or bar just around the next corner of the island’s hilly terrain. Magnetic Island offers accommodation right across the tourist spectrum, covering everything from backpacker to luxury resorts. Magnetic Island is the perfect place for those looking for adventure, or just the opportunity to kick back in a hammock and enjoy the 300 days of annual sunshine. There’s something attractive about Magnetic Island that draws tourists in year after year. Magnetic Island is definitely a unique tropical island destination perfect for the quick getaway. UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES
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