Townsville (pop. 97,000), the most important town in northern Queensland, lies on Cleveland Bay at the foot of Castle Hill, a granite crag 300m high. The largest tropical town in Australia, which successfully combines its 19th C. heritage with the achievements and the buildings of the present day, it was founded in 1864 as a port for the
shipment of the agricultural produce of the hinterland. The port project was financed by John Black and Robert Towns, and the town, originally called Cleveland Bay, was renamed Townsville in 1865 after a visit by Robert Towns.
Townsville is now an important industrial town (metal processing) and commercial center, with a considerable trade with Southeast Asia. It is also an excellent base for excursions and tours, particularly to Magnetic Island. Townsville has a large airport linking it with all parts of Australia and with countries overseas. It also has good rail and bus connections and a municipal bus service.
After heavy falls of rain in summer some roads may become impassable through flooding.
The ten-day Paciific Festival takes place annually in September/ October.
Information about what to see and what's on in Townsville can be obtained from the Southern Information Centre on the Bruce Highway, Enterprise House (3 The Strand), and the information kiosk in Flinders Mall. The offices of the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) are in Ross River Road in the Aitkenvale district.
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