DESTINATION: Bowen

This holiday town on the coast halfway between Townsville and Mackay is also called the 'Climate Capital of the North'. Bowen is the oldest town in north Queensland and was first settled in 1861. Year-round warm weather and 8 sandy beaches fringed by clear waters attract many visitors to Bowen.

Main Attractions

The best-known beach is Horseshoe Bay, offering almost every kind of watersport. A highlight is scuba diving on the spectacular coral reef just offshore. There are many other secluded beaches close to town. Visitors can follow a number of signposted golden arrows on the Golden Arrow Tour, starting 200m on the town side of the salt works. This scenic driving tour takes in many points of interest in the town. The Bowen Historical Museum is one of the best country museums in Queensland. Located in Gordon St; it exhibits shells, minerals and Aboriginal artefacts. With 22 historic murals on the town walls and fishing, boating, snorkelling, diving and swimming, Bowen has much to offer visitors.

Nearby attractions

The area surrounding Bowen is a birdwatcher's paradise with some 219 species to sight. Fossicking for gems is a popular activity, given the area's rich geology. Sapphires, amethysts, crystals, clear quartz, agate and jasper can be found in the area. Binbee, along the Collinsville Rd, is a good place to start fossicking.

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Region: Townsville Region

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Visitors to the Townsville region will enjoy beautifully warm days, with the sun shining brightly on the calm blue sea. Visitors can travel to the Great Barrier Reef from either Townsville or Mission Beach. At the reef there is a large pontoon, glass-bottom boats, and areas for swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving and fishing. North Queensland has been blessed with National Parks that are home to rare butterflies and birds, kangaroos, platypus and ancient trees. Visitors can trek, drive or take a guided tour of the parks. more

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Tourist info

Bruce Hwy, Mount Gordon,Ph: (07) 4786 4494

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