Local adventurers unlock the ultimate Easter getaway

The creators behind popular YouTube channel ‘Fishing Townsville’ share their favourite getaways for Easter as NQ heads towards some fantastic April weather.

Fishing Townsville creators Malcolm and Tania Brown

Easter is just around the corner, and with a little planning, North Queenslanders can transform their four-day break into an incredible 10-day escape.

With just three days of annual leave, you can unlock the ultimate adventure in your own tropical paradise.

For local adventurer Malcolm Brown, the man behind the popular YouTube channel Fishing Townsville, the Easter break is the perfect time to explore North Queensland’s natural treasures.

“The timing couldn’t be better this year,” Malcolm told NQ Weekend. “The weather is settling after the hot summer and with the flood waters receding, the fishing will be spectacular. It really is one of the best times of the year get out camping and reconnecting with the outdoors.

“Whether you’re looking for family fun or you’re a solo traveller, there’s something magical about exploring the treasures in our own region.”

Malcolm and his wife, Tania, have been North Queensland adventurers for years, and started the Fishing Townsville YouTube channel in 2010.

With family and work life taking over they decided to take a step back in 2016, but last year decided to get back into sharing their camping adventures

The Fishing Townsville YouTube channel showcases the family’s travel adventures with videos and vlogs.

Malcolm and Tania Brown with Bella and Kylo. Picture: Evan Morgan

Some clips on the Fishing Townsville channel have achieved more than 15,000 views.

Last September, the Brown’s travel game changed when they bought a compact caravan from Snowy River Townsville.

Now, with their two Border Collies tagging along, the couple have unlocked a new level of flexibility, comfort, and freedom.

“This is the first Easter where we can get away comfortably with our dogs,” Malcolm said.

“Before the caravan, we had the stress of having to find ways to deal with the heat.

“One of our dogs, Bella, has a condition called Border Collie Collapse.

“This causes her to suffer from collapse episodes, and potential death, if she overheats during exercise. So even short trips were stressful.

Fishing Townsville: Malcolm and Tania Brown enjoy travelling the great outdoors

“Now, we can travel together, enjoy airconditioned comfort, and explore at our own pace with peace of mind.”

Malcolm and Tania, teachers from Ryan Catholic College, aren’t alone in their love for caravanning.

According to Josh Mullock, owner of Snowy River Townsville, caravanning is fast becoming the go-to choice for locals.

“Caravanning offers a unique blend of cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and comfort,” Josh said. “You can customise your trip, set your own pace, and always have a comfortable home base - no matter where your journey takes you.”

As the Easter holiday season approaches, Josh has noticed a growing trend of families, couples, and even solo travellers embracing the caravanning lifestyle.

“It’s the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle, unplug from technology, and reconnect with nature and loved ones,” he said.

For the upcoming Easter break, Malcom and Tania are still finalising their travelling plans.

“I like to watch the weather and pick my destination closer to the time,” Malcolm said. “If the weather is going to be good, I will be heading somewhere where island or reef fishing will be possible. But if it’s going to be windy, the creeks will be the go.”

For those looking for inspiration, Malcolm has a few recommendations.

“We love visiting Lucinda to the north of Townsville, which is a gateway to the beautiful Hinchinbrook Island and provides a great home base for exploring many local fishing and wildlife opportunities.

Fishing Townsville’s Malcolm Brown says if it is too windy, fishing in the region’s creeks is a winner

“Heading south it’s hard to beat the beautiful sandy beaches of the Bowen area, or just a little further along you get to Dingo Beach or Airlie Beach with the Whitsunday Island group right on your doorstep.

“If you’re looking a bit further afield, we’ve recently returned from a trip up to Port Douglas.

The road between Cairns and Port Douglas has to be one of the most scenic in Australia and takes you literally along the water’s edge most of the way, cutting into numerous secluded beaches and rocky outcrops. Port Douglas as an excellent quality boat ramp and the reef is less than 30km away!”

“The extended break offers a great opportunity to get outdoors and experience the beauty of our region,” Malcolm said. “Whether you’re setting up a tent or towing a caravan, the memories you make will stay with you forever.”

For Malcolm and Tania, camping isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the journey.

Through their YouTube channel, Fishing Townsville, they share their adventures, offering tips, inspiration, and glimpses of their travels to fellow North Queenslanders.

“Wherever we end up going this Easter, you can be assured we’ll be documenting our trip on YouTube, he said.

“We love having everyone follow along and explore with us. We hope to inspire others to get out and discover these incredible places for themselves.

“There’s so much to see and do right here in North Queensland. It’s time to make the most of it.

“We’re lucky to live where others want to holiday.”

Originally published as Local adventurers unlock the ultimate Easter getaway