When you've got an island paradise called Magnetic, right on your doorstep, it's not hard to see why people are attracted to Townsville. However, the city is even more than a magnetic destination; it's the very heart of life in the tropics extending north to Mission Beach south to the Burdekin and west to historic Charters Towers. Surrounded by a rich hinterland of tropical rainforests and waterfalls, Townsville is also close to historic gold mining towns, the outback, islands, and of course, the Great Barrier Reef.
 
The town itself provides a snapshot of all these local features, with its world renowned Reef HQ, the world's largest living coral reef aquarium, the Billabong Sanctuary, where you can learn all about Australia's fascinating native wildlife, and many other cultural and heritage attractions like the Brolga Dreaming Aboriginal Centre.
 

You can also organize many different types of trips and adventures in Townsville. Diving enthusiasts have access to the Yongala Wreck, Australia's best wreck dive site and there are also plenty of tours available to explore the local national parks and surrounding rural townships. You can even sign-up to join an outback cattle drive. These are just some of Townsville's many hidden treasures.
 
If looking for hidden treasures sounds exhausting, other gems await you right in the middle of town. Catering for sophisticated palates and elegant tropical fun, this cosmopolitan city boasts an array of world class cafes, bars, restaurants, nightclubs, casino and shops. Which ever one you choose, you'll experience Townsville's friendly and unique, relaxed tropical ambience.
 
Townsville is Australia's largest tropical city and headquarters for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. Striving for big-city sophistication, Townsville is energetic and young with excellent museums and a thriving nightlife. Just off its shores you can discover the Great Barrier Reef and Magnetic Island while in town you can explore in the parks or walk up to Castle Hill Lookout.  

 
Source: Australia. Lonely Planet, 2004. , http://www.townsvilleholidays.info/