There is lots to do in & from Townsville city. Getting there by ferry only takes 20 minutes & is a very scenic journey in itself
Visit Reef HQ http://www.reefhq.com.au/ the great Barrier Reef Aquarium.
...not to be missed...it even has a turtle hospital
Visit Billabong Sanctuary http://www.billabongsanctuary.com.au/
Australian Native Animal Wildlife Park and Function Centre
See Crocodiles, Koalas, Kangaroos, Snakes, Wombat & Birds,
You can cuddle a koala, hold a wombat, and if you're brave enough, there's snake and crocodile handling too!
Visit Maritime Museum ; http://www.townsvillemaritimemuseum.org.au/...amongst other things learn about the once mysterious loss of the Famed Yongala out at sea.
Visit Mungalla Station & go on an Aboriginal Tour http://www.mungallaaboriginaltours.com.au/
The history and culture of Mungalla tour begins at the grand Mungalla Station homestead where we introduce you to Nywaigi Aboriginal culture. Here you can view artefacts and try your hand at throwing a boomerang or spear.
visit the gift shop for authentic Aboriginal art by local artists, souvenirs, shirts, caps, postcards!
NB; Mungalla Station is 1.5 hours drive north of Townsville so you need to set aside a whole day.
Visit the town of INGHAM; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ingham,_Queensland ....learn about & see sugar cane farming & visit Victoria Sugar Mill. NB Ingham is 1.5 hours drive north from Townsville.