Living in Townsville and Studying at TIES

The Strand

Townsville and surrounding regions have many spectacular beaches but nothing quite compares to the award winning Strand. With 2.2kms of beachfront, the Strand promenade hosts many pathways for both walking and riding, picnic areas, playgrounds, exercise parks and safe swimming beaches. Also not to forget the beautiful cafes and restaurants with their amazing waterfront views. The Strand is a definite must when visiting Townsville.

Housing in Townsville

Townsville is home to one of the largest defence communities in Australia, which has allowed the city to grow considerably over the last decade. This along with the popularity of the world class James Cook University has seen an expansion of many new residential developments throughout Townsville, giving new comers ample availability and choice. There is also a large range of share housing available within Townsville to suit most needs.

Castle Hill

Castle Hill is situated in the center of Townsville with views of the entire city in all directions including the beautiful Magnetic Island and Ocean views. This heritage listed hill provides the city and its visitors with not only amazing views but also many walking tracks and places to explore. With 15 registered tracks there is bound to be something to suit any age and physical fitness, though if you are not looking for physical activity it is a beautiful drive to the top with ample parking and picnic areas.

Jezzine Barracks

Townsville has such rich diversity through its significant ties with both the Australian Defense Forces and its heritage within the local Aboriginal communities. Nowhere displays this unity better than Jezzine Barracks. With its amazing views from various lookouts scattered over the coastal boardwalks, to the 32 specially commissioned artworks and restorations throughout Kissing Point complex. Jezzine Barracks is also home to the Australian Army Museum of North Queensland. This must see displays memorabilia post 1945 from conflicts such as Vietnam and Korea and the history of Sir John Lavarack.

Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island is a small piece of unspoiled paradise with secluded beaches, only 8kms off the coast of Townsville. With over half of the Island being classified as National Parks there is an abundance of native wild life along with the Great Barrier Reef right at their doorstep. During the summer months sea turtles are known for nesting on many of the beaches, making this a very exciting time to visit. There are so many activities to keep everyone entertained on the Island, from Trail Bike Riding, Hiking, Jet Skiing and Sailing, to an Island Water or Land Tours or the Local Markets. Magnetic Island has over 24kms of walking tracks and the opportunity to visit, dive or snorkel the HMAS Yongala Shipwreck, renowned as the best wreck dive in Australia.

Freshwater Swimming Holes

The summer months in North Queensland can often be difficult for some travelers, so exploring the many stunning freshwater creeks and swimming holes is another must do when in Townsville. The region has a large number of these amazing sites on the outta limits of the city in all directions. With a few of the local favorites being Paradise Waterhole and The Rockslides at Big Crystal Creek (70Kms north), Little Crystal Creek (65kms north) Jourama Falls (91kms north), Alligator Creek (23kms south) and Keelbottom Creek (30kms west). Each of these little pieces of paradise will take your breath away with their beauty whilst giving the opportunity to relax and cool down.

About Townsville

Townsville brings together array of historical, military, outback, island experiences, with tropical islands, wetlands, the Great Barrier Reef, wet tropics rainforest and a glorious beachfront right on our door step. This laid back lifestyle complemented with big city comforts offers the region a variety of world class education facilities, affordable housing, and a wide range of outdoor recreational activities and entertainment.

Useful tips and articles

  • Make sure you check weather conditions before you go exploring
  • Pack a picnic lunch and take plenty of water to stay hydrated
  • The Townsville sun is harsh, wear a hat & sunscreen and reapply regularly
  • Let someone know where you are going and when you should be back.

Enjoy Exploring the Townsville Region