The delicious smells from the international food hall fill the air as the traditional dancers take the stage. You watch the performance as they entertain the crowd, part of the Townsville Cultural Fest held in August each year. The festival is just one of the events that help create the modern, laidback and vibrant lifestyle of the region.

Practice your line dancing and bush poetry at the 10 Days in The Towers festival at Charters Towers. Or feast on Italian food at Ingham’s Australian Italian Festival—a highlight on many a foodie’s calendar.

Another great way to appreciate the lifestyle in Townsville is to walk along The Strand. This foreshore stretches for 2.5km with magnificent views of Magnetic Island and has an excellent section of restaurants and cafes. Let the kids play at The Rock Pool—a sheltered salt water lagoon—or go on the slides at the free water park.