Townsville, Magnetic Island tourism deals to boost industry post-Cyclone Kirrily
With cut-price deals for locals and discount flights, North Queensland is open for business: Here’s the best way to spend a summer weekend in paradise.
Townsville
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After Cyclone Kirrily put a serious dent in visitor numbers, Townsville Enterprise is offering a range of discounts to help support North Queensland’s tourism operators.
Whether it’s hitting the water with Aquascene Magnetic Island or spending Valentine’s Day with your love at Billabong Sanctuary, there’s a deal to fit almost any weekend away or holiday.
Bonza is marking its first anniversary with flights to Townsville from Rockhampton and the Sunshine Coast starting from just $49 one way, with Jetstar offering flights from Sydney for just $89 one way for March.
Here are our favourite offers:
Valentines Day at Billabong Sanctuary
If you’re looking for something different to do with your loved one on Valentines Day, Billabong Sanctuary is offering a $120 couples deal.
The deal includes a tour meeting the sanctuary’s ‘animal couples’, a koala cuddle souvenir photo, a cheese platter and glass of bubbles while watching the sunset surrounded by wildlife.
Get up close and personal with the meerkats, feed a wallaby or watch the daily feeding of some of the sanctuary’s oldest residents – the crocodiles.
Get out on the water
If you’re looking for a way to see parts of Magnetic Island that are difficult to reach on land, Aquascene might be the answer.
The company is offering tours for under $100 with plenty of spots available over the next few days.
The Fun Under $100 Discovery Tour will take about five hours, with it suitable for all ages and abilities.
Sail away from Kirrily
Pilgrim Sailing is offering 20 per cent off for one week only, with the promo code ‘KIRRILY’.
Hop on board the 58-foot yacht for a sunset sail in Cleveland Bay with organic Australian wines, premium local beers and nibbles.
Up to 12 guests fit on board, so don’t forget to take your friends.
Put your feet up
If you’re after a weekend of luxury on Magnetic Island, Rock Salt and Reflections Villas is offering a 5 per cent discount between February 8 and 22 using the code LOVERS.
Guests can enjoy ocean views from plunge pools and pop to the nearby Picnic Bay eateries and more.
While you’re on the island, you can enjoy one – or more – of the many exciting and relaxing experiences Maggie has to offer.
Jet around the Island
If you’re after something a little more thrilling, Jetski Hire Magnetic Island could be the experience for you.
The team gears everyone up with the right safety equipment and protocols before taking everyone through the basics, and then it’s time to hit the water.
The tours leave from Horseshoe Bay, which is a hub of activity and relaxation with a number of cafes.
Birds eye view
See North Queensland from the sky with Townsville Helicopters.
Explore the city from a new perspective, explore secluded coastlines or even join them for the ultimate fishing adventure.
There are a number of half-hour tours available to see Magnetic Island, the Cape Cleveland Lighthouse or even get away with the Havannah Island Escape.
Grab a bite
If you’re hungry, it might be time to stop in at Cbar on The Strand, with the restaurant offering 10 per cent off though Townsville Enterprise.
The large open deck, relaxed atmosphere and magnificent views across the Coral Seal and Magnetic Island make it a popular spot with locals and travellers.
It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with kids menus available.
Day trip to the gold fields
Charters Towers is steeped in rich history with it being the heart of North Queensland’s gold rush.
Much of the towns history is on display with the Venus Gold Battery and the Miners Cottage, but there is no end to Tower’s hidden gems.
Stop in for a quick bite to eat at the Rix (or any of the other pubs in town), take a tour of the Texas Longhorns or even stay the night at the former psychiatric hospital which is now the luxury accommodation Kernow.
Deep dive into history
If you’re a keen snorkeller or a driver, a trip to the SS Yongala Wreck could be the best way to spend a day.
Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive is one of the city’s longest established dive training and marine tourism operators, with trips to the Great Barrier Reef also available.
The company is offering 20 per cent off reef and snorkel drive tours.
The team also run trips to the Museum of Underwater Art, which is an installation at John Brewer Reef designed to highlight reef conservation and restoration, and to educate.
Learn something new
Take in Magnetic Island’s natural beauty, rich history and diverse wildlife with Magnetic Island Tours.
The tour company is offering 15 per cent off guided tours with the code ‘SUMMER2024’.
Knowledgeable local guys will take you on a journey through time and nature, revealing the island’s fascinating past and abundant wildlife.
The tour includes a relaxing hour at Horseshoe Bay for a self-catered lunch.
Every experience on Townsville Enterprise’s website will be 10 per cent off with additional deals on Aquascene tours, Pilgrim Sailing, Jetski hire and more.
Originally published as Townsville, Magnetic Island tourism deals to boost industry post-Cyclone Kirrily
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