Townsville is our last stop for this trip, and we were hoping that the weather would perk up after the dismal skies over Mission Beach yesterday. What we hadn’t planned for was the V8 Super Car race this weekend – right here in Townsville. Peachy. At least that might keep the numbers down everywhere else! We had an “end of trip” dinner out where Fergus managed an enormous plate of rump and ribs, while Harry downed the seafood platter.

Next morning the sun was shining, the wind dropped off and we headed off to Magnetic Island. John paddled the kayak while the boys and I went on the ferry. It’s about 10km off the coast and has a resident population of about 3000.

View of Townsville from the ferry to Magnetic Island.

That big hill is Castle Hill and dominates the Townsville skyline. But for now – we’re heading off shore.

Magnetic Island is a really laid back and peaceful place. There’s a Peppers Resort and some other apartment type buildings, but the rest is relaxed and easy going. There’s one road along the south east side of the island that covers about four beaches and then the rest is inaccessible by car. You can sail around to some other beaches – if you have your yacht handy.

Arcadia Beach with the tide coming in.

The boys snorkelled around the point in the photo above from the previous beach. There’s a wreck there, but visibility was average. They did see a turtle, and Harry hitched a ride. You can rely on Harry. I spied one of the many Rock Wallabies that hang out in the boulder strewn shoreline.

Rock Wallaby on Magnetic Island

There’s not a lot of road, but it is handy to have a car to get around. We tried to get a Mini Moke but they were all booked out. We ended up with this buzz box in the photo below.

Fergus at the wheel

If this is the high season, and also the school holidays, I can’t imagine how quiet it is in the low season.

We checked out every beach and loved the granite rocks and views.

At Geoffrey Bay, Magnetic Island

Harry – always finds a way to make me worry.