Bowen, at the top of the Whitsunday’s was established in 1861 and the first settlement in north Queensland. The town and surrounding area is know best known for its magnificent beaches and bays as well as its luscious mangoes. Visit the Big Mango and try one for yourself. Townsville is a vibrant region that encompasses beautiful coastal towns, rainforests, rugged Outback and country terrain. But the appeal of this lovely region expands further from the city of Townsville… head in any direction and you’ll be rewarded.
The Great Barrier Reef sprawls to the east, the Outback beckons to the west, island paradises such as Magnetic Island and Hinchinbrook Island entice to the north while sugar cane and mango farming communities tempt in the south. Townsville has a spectacular underwater observatory for those that would like to experience the vivid colour and wonders of the reef without having to get wet.
Magnetic Island, accessible from Townsville by a 20 minute fast ferry is like no other island getaway. The contrasting landscape of this World Heritage listed island makes this natural destination truly distinctive. The rocky granite headlands fuse with the 23 bays and beaches studded with magnificent Hoop pine trees, creating a dramatic coastline. Visible from the sea, Mount Cook hovers above the eucalypt woods and green vine forests. The island provides the perfect setting for a unique escape. Over two-thirds of the island is protected National Park providing a haven for the native wildlife, like rock wallabies, possums, and over 100 species of birdlife. Magnetic Island is home to Northern Australia’s largest colony of koalas living in the wild. Tropical fish and marine life live in the surrounding coral reefs and tranquil waters. ALPHA Apartments, located right on the water at Nelly Bay, offer fantastic accommodation. Why not explore the land or the waters and discover the island’s unique surrounds?