Content Manager

Welcome to Townsville

As a garrison city, Townsville is the home base for some of Australia's most important Defence Force units and the city has a long-standing and special relationship with our Defence Force personnel. Townsville is a vibrant city and is widely regarded as the capital of north Queensland. Residents and visitors alike enjoy many attractions including the world's largest living coral reef aquarium, a wildlife sanctuary, casino, beaches, museums, theatres, galleries and restaurants. Magnetic Island is just 20 minutes from the city centre by Fast Cat ferry and day cruises and diving expeditions to the Great Barrier Reef depart from the city. As well as having a great tropical lifestyle, Townsville is the sporting capital of north Queensland and is home to the Cowboys (NRL), the Crocs (NBL) and the Fire (WNBL). I trust this Information for New Residents package will help make your transition to life in north Queensland as simple as possible.

The kit provides information on a range of council and community services and programs - everything from the arts, culture and sports to animal management, child care and employment. As a new resident you are joining thousands of others who are choosing to live in our region and enjoying the benefits of strong economic growth and a relaxed lifestyle.

Information for New Residents

Handy Numbers

Information Centre

A one stop shop for information on the Townsville district, including: Recreation, Arts & Cultural Activities, Events Calendar, Community Services Directory

Community Information Centre (Townsville & District) Inc half of any problem is not knowing where to find the answer We can help you find the answers
We provide current, accurate and comprehensive information and referral services to Townsville and Thuringowa residents. We are a non-profit organisation.

You can:

• Use our Web database or our directories to discover the wealth of services and activities available in the region
• Pick up a free copy of the Up to 10 - Townsville & Thuringowa's Guide for Parents - A free magazine with ideas of things to do; an events calendar; information on services, playgroups, and vacation care; articles on a variety of issues; and regular feature articles
• Place your organisation on our Community Directory Web database
• Advertise your event on the web-based Events Calendar or in the Arts E-bulletin
• Email or phone us for any information that you have difficulty finding
• Call in to see us about any problems you are having accessing the services that you require
• Browse our large collection of brochures on display
• Pick up a New Resident Information Folder
• Use our Community Noticeboard

Community Information Centre

Publications

• Community Resource Directory
• Recreation Directory
• Up to 10
• New Resident Packs
• Activities for Older Adults
• Arts E-bulletin
• Cultural Activities for Young People

About The Region

The Townsville-Thuringowa region has been occupied by Aboriginal people for at least 40,000 years. The Wulgurukaba people lived on Palm and Magnetic Islands and may also have lived around Cape Cleveland, while the Warunga people occupied an area centred on Halifax Bay. Other tribes who lived near the Townsville area are the Bindal, Juru and Nawagi.

The first European history of Townsville was recorded in 1770 by Captain James Cook, naming Cleveland Bay and 'Magnetical Isle'. Up to six expeditions explored the coastal area of North Queensland by sea, but it was not until the mid 1800s that overland explorations led to settlement of the area. The port of Townsville was named after Robert Towns, a Sydney merchant with land interests in the area, and established by John Melton Black, Towns' station manager.

The discovery of gold was a major catalyst for economic and social development in the Townsville Region, and North Queensland. Townsville became the coastal centre for the vast North Queensland outback, with trading routes radiating in many directions. The opening of the gold fields provided various economic opportunities including pastoral, agricultural and related industrial and commercial activities throughout the North Queensland region. During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Townsville expanded from a small port to the major centre of North Queensland.

During the Second World War, Townsville became a major Pacific base, accommodating up to 100,000
Australian, American and other allied service personnel, and continues to be an important centre for the Defence Forces. With both Air Force and Army bases located in Townsville, significant numbers of military personnel and their families live in the region.

The Twin Cities

Townsville was formally proclaimed a municipality and gazetted in 1866, and declared a city in 1903. Historically, Townsville City was a predominantly urban area surrounded by a rural area known as Thuringowa, which was governed by a divisional board. This board was re-named Thuringowa Shire Council in 1903, and Thuringowa was proclaimed a city in 1986. In March 2008 the two cities will amalgamate and become the City of Townsville.

The Lifestyle

The Townsville region is a significant tourist destination and is renowned for its easygoing lifestyle, excellent cultural experiences and family-friendly entertainment. The Strand has become a nucleus of recreational and social activities for the community. Re-developed in 1999, The Strand is a 2.2 kilometre inner city beachfront, with a range of recreational facilities, children's playgrounds (including a water park), and barbecue amenities. Riverway, another exciting development takes advantage of the stretch of Ross River in Thuringowa, offering swimming lagoons, an art gallery and a theatre. The Cities have excellent facilities for almost every sport. Three National sporting teams - the Townsville Crocodiles (basketball), the Fire (women's basketball) and the North Queensland Cowboys (rugby league) - are based here. Live theatre, music and the arts feature prominently in the life of the community. The Cities boast several art galleries including the Perc Tucker Regional Gallery and Pinnacles Gallery and support well equipped libraries. A modern Entertainment and Convention Centre hosts numerous major acts, the Civic Theatre holds many local and touring stage shows, and there are other smaller performing venues for the arts. There is also a local professional theatre company (Tropic Sun). Major museums include the Museum of Tropical Queensland, which houses artefacts from the wreck of the HMS Pandora, and Reef HQ, the world's largest living coral reef experience - on land, that is. Music in all forms is central to the cultural life of the cities. The locally based Barrier Reef Orchestra stages a number of classical music concerts each year and the renowned annual International Festival of Chamber Music attracts some of the world's leading musicians as well as visitors from around Australia and overseas. Other festivals held annually include the Cultural Fest, Thuringowa River Festival, Palmer Street Jazz Festival, Greek Fest, Basque Festival, The Great Tropical Jazz Party on Magnetic Island and the Octoberfest. Live popular music is part of the local pub and club scene. Dancenorth Australia, a professional dance company which tours nationally and internationally, enjoys a reputation for original and polished productions. Superb botanical gardens and parks abound throughout the cities and include the world-class Palmetum, the historic Queens Gardens, Anderson Gardens, Dan Gleeson Gardens and the Townsville Environmental Park. Billabong Sanctuary is an outstanding wildlife park 30 minutes drive on the Bruce Highway south. Restaurants offering a range of cuisine are peppered throughout the Cities and a small and vibrant nightclub strip is located in the business centre of Townsville. The cities have three cinema complexes and an Imax Theatre and, for those who want to chance their luck, there are Jupiter's Casino, and horse racing at Cluden. There are a number of beautiful and easy to reach national parks nearby and several others a little further afield. Magnetic Island, the island suburb of Townsville (within commuting distance) is mostly national park and offers a range of water sports and bushwalking. It is a great place to unwind. The waters off Townsville are ideal for fishing and boating and for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. The World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef lies within a day trip of the coast. The surrounding region has much to offer locals and tourists alike. The historic gold mining towns of Charters Towers and Ravenswood to the west, Ingham, the sugar town to the north, and the twin sugar towns of Ayr and Home Hill to the south, are little more than an hour away by car. Charters Towers, renowned for its historic architecture, stages the Goldfield Ashes cricket carnival each January with 150 teams participating. It also hosts a major Country Music Festival. Ingham has its annual Italian Festival and Ayr and Home Hill their Water and Harvest Festivals. In terms of lifestyle, Townsville and Thuringowa have something for everyone!

Economic Development

Thanks to our privileged location amongst the natural wonders of the tropical north of Australia and our proximity to the rich North-West Minerals Province, our industry and business community contribute more than ten billion dollars to the Australian economy each year and as one of Australia's fastest growing and most diverse economies. (Townsville Enterprise).

For more economic information contact
Townsville Enterprise Inc 4726 2728

Townsville Enterprise Inc

Education

Townsville & Thuringowa offer a comprehensive range of educational opportunities including public and private schools, the Barrier Reef Institute of TAFE, the Australian Technical College and James Cook University.

Education QLD

School Terms 2008
1st Term 29 January - 4 April
2nd Term 15 April - 27 June
3rd Term 15 July - 19 September
4th Term 6 October - 14 December
Independent school holidays may differ
Kindergartens C&K Affiliated Kindergartens Blue Skies Pre-School & Kindergarten
RAAF Base Townsville, Garbutt
4752 1153
Kindergarten Headstart
McLachlan St, Currajong
4779 7130
Koolkuna Kindergarten & Pre-school
Cnr Davidson & McIlwraith Sts, Sth Townsville
4771 5568
Magnetic Island Kindi & Childcare
Nelly Bay Rd
Nelly Bay, Magnetic Island
4758 1168
Mt Louisa & Suburbs Kindergarten & Pre-school
Fulham Rd, Heatley
4779 7860
Rowes Bay Pre-school/Kindergarten
Heatley Pde, Rowes Bay
4771 3614
Stepping Stones Kindergarten & Preschool
589 Ross River Rd, Kirwan
4773 2633
Western Suburbs Pre-school & Kindergarten
Sabadine St, Aitkenvale
4779 3434
Contact the Community Information Centre for further information on kindergartens
Preparatory Year

Prep Information Sheet

From 2007, all Queensland children have access to a full-time preparatory year of education before starting Year 1. This non-compulsory, preparatory year is offered in all state primary schools. It has replaced the part-time state preschool system that was not available in all schools. Parents intending to enrol their child in a non-state school should make enquiries directly to the school.
Special Schools
Parents who have children with a disability should contact:
Principal Education Officer
Qld Education District Office
4726 3111
State Primary Schools
Aitkenvale
87 Wotton St
4779 0266
Annandale
Yolanda Drv
4729 5111
Belgian Gardens
43 Potts St
4771 3655
Bluewater
Buckby St
4751 2333
Bohlevale
Bohlevale School Rd
4729 3555
Cranbrook
Alice St
4726 1222
Currajong
140 Palmerston St
4779 8811
Garbutt
78 Chandler St
4759 4888
Heatley
Cnr Fulham Rd & Mill Dr
4759 5333
Hermit Park
Cnr Surrey & Sussex Sts
4779 4965
Kelso
Yvette St
4789 6222
Kirwan
21 Burnda St
4773 1919/1266
Magnetic Island
Mandalay Ave, Nelly Bay
4758 2333
Majors Creek
Majors Creek Road
4778 8514 (AH)
Mundingburra
77 Ross River Rd
4759 6444
Mutarnee
School Road
4770 8131
Oonoonba
Fairfield Waters Dr, Idalia
4799 8333
Railway Estate
39 Railway Ave
4720 8333
Rasmussen
Allambie Lane
4789 6333
Stuart
Dwyer St
4778 1333
Townsville Central
Warburton St, North Ward
4771 2278
Townsville South
78 Tully St, South Townsville
4771 4224
Townsville West
8 Wilson St, West End
4750 7222
Vincent
280 Palmerston St
4728 0444
Weir
592 Ross River Rd, Kirwan
4726 1333
Willows
Bilberry St, Kirwan
4723 6000
Woodstock
Woodstock Avenue
4778 8718
Wulguru
Edison St
4799 8777
Catholic
Good Shepherd Catholic Community
65 Allambie Lane, Rasmussen
4774 0477
Holy Spirit
Hatchett St, Cranbrook
4779 4255
Marian Primary
Hugh St, Currajong
4779 2568
Ryan Catholic Community
Canterbury Rd, Kirwan
4773 0100
St Anthony's Catholic College
Veale Rd, Deeragun
4751 7200
St Joseph's Mundingburra
Ross River Rd, Mundingburra
4779 1651
St Joseph's North Ward
Fryer St, North Ward
4772 1973
Southern Cross Catholic School
Mervyn Crossman Drv, Annandale
4778 3444
Independent
Annandale Christian School
Yolanda Drv, Annandale
4725 2082
Calvary Christian College
569 Bayswater Rd, Mt Louisa
4722 9201
Riverside Christian School
59 Leopold St, Aitkenvale
4779 2291
Shalom Christian College
190 Hervey Range Rd, Condon
4750 3400
The Cathedral School of St Anne & St James
154 Ross River Rd, Mundingburra
4722 2000
Townsville Grammar
Brazier Drv, Annandale
4722 4900
State Secondary Schools
Heatley
Cnr Hanlon & Fulham Rd, Heatley
4726 8333
Kirwan
Hudson St, Kirwan
4773 8111
Pimlico
Fulham Rd, Pimlico
4759 3444
Northern Beaches
Meranti St, Deeragun
4751 7111
Thuringowa
Vickers Rd, Condon
4773 5622
Townsville
36 Boundary St, Railway Estate
4721 8777
William Ross
Mervyn Crossman Dr, Murray
4726 7666
Catholic
Ignatius Park College (Boys)
Ross River Rd, Cranbrook
4796 0222
Ryan Catholic Community
Canterbury Rd, Kirwan
4773 0100
St Anthony's Catholic College
Veale Rd, Deeragun
4751 7200
St Margaret Mary's College (Girls)
Crowle St, Hermit Park
4726 4900
St Patrick's College (Girls)
The Strand, North Ward
4772 2700
Independent
Annandale Christian School
Yolanda Dr, Annandale
4725 2082
Calvary Christian College
569 Bayswater Rd, Mt Louisa
4774 5263
Shalom Christian College
190 Hervey Range Rd, Condon
4750 3400
The Cathedral School of St Anne & St James
154 Ross River Rd, Mundingburra
4722 2000
Townsville Grammar School
5 Paxton St, North Ward
4722 4900
School Dentist
Service provided for all Qld school children from pre-school to year 10 on a rotational basis. Once an entire school's treatment is complete the Dental Team moves to another school. All general dental services are provided.
For more information: 4727 0229
Heatley Adult Secondary College
Offers flexible access to Year 10 and senior courses for adults to upgrade their education. Classes are held 6pm to 9pm, Monday to Thursday. Some subjects are also held 9am to noon, Monday to Saturday.
For further information:
Mon to Thurs 5 - 9pm 4726 8309
School hours 4726 8333
James Cook University of North Queensland
Offers over 140 undergraduate courses across a wide range of disciplines. Entry requirements vary.
Faculties:
Arts, Education & Social Sciences(includes School of Indigenous Australian Studies)
4781 4198
Medicine, Health & Molecular Sciences
4781 5330
Law, Business & the Creative Arts
4781 4271
Science & Engineering
4781 6823 or 1800 246 446

JCU Education

Barrier Reef Institute of Tafe (BRIT)
TAFE courses can be undertaken on a full or part time basis. There are two main campuses:
Cnr Fulham Rd & Hugh St, Pimlico; or Cnr Walker & Stanley Sts, City.
For information: 1300 130 084

Barrier Reef Institute of Tafe

Barrier Reef Institute of Tafe

Australian Technical College North Queensland
Opened in 2007 with its first intake of year 11 school-based apprentices. On completion of year 11 and 12 students obtain their Year 12 Certificate of Education but also complete up to 18 months of a full apprenticeship. School based apprenticeships are available now in the trade areas of Construction, Automotive, Engineering and Electro technology.
1300 665 733

Australian Technical College North Queensland

Education through the Ages
University of the Third Age (U3A)
4775 1930
Various classes and learning activities with a focus on learning for the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake rather than skills acquisition for employment in Japanese, Successful Investing, Book Reviews, Photography, Walking, Computing, Wood Turning, Reiki and others.

University of the Third Age

English as a Second Language
Aitkenvale State School
4779 0266
Townsville State High
4721 8777
Programs available to assist English language acquisition to support educational opportunities and outcomes
James Cook University
English Language Centre
4781 5390

English as a Second Language

Teaches English as a Second Language for students, tourists, people who have working holiday visas and migrants. Fees apply
Barrier Reef Institute of Tafe
Language Unit
1300 130 084
English language education and training for people from non-English speaking backgrounds
Migrant Resource Centre
4772 4800
Educational Resource Organisations
Learning Network Queensland
4724 1444

http://www.lnq.net.au

Provides assistance for learners. Offers equipment use, study aids, career information, community education programs.

Weather

Located in a dry tropics climate, Townsville offers an average of 300 days of sunshine each year. The region's weather pattern is dominated by a short wet summer with considerable rainfall and a relatively long dry period for the remainder of the year. Average temperatures range between a minimum of 13 degrees in the winter months to a maximum of 33 degrees in the summer months.

Population

As at 30 June 2006 the estimated population of Townsville/Thuringowa was 165,059 people.
Townsville/Thuringowa Local Government Area Profile March 2007, OESR).

Tourist Information

Tourist Information

Recreation

Further information regarding Twin Cities recreational and entertainment options can be found in the Recreation Information Sheet or

Recreation

Moving In

Moving In

Townsville Bulletin Real Estate
Insert in Townsville Bulletin (Saturday)

THRU -Townsville Housing Resource Unit Inc
Tenant advice and advocacy service
4721 5011

Residential Tenancies Authority
1300 366 311

Residential Tenancies Authority

Body Corporate Information Service (Dept of Tourism, Fair Trading & Wine Industry Development)
1800 060 119

Department of Housing (State Govt)
Public housing
4760 7378

James Cook University Accommodation Office
4781 4148

Digs Flatmate Agency
4725 5639

Connection of Essential Services

Electricity
Ergon Energy

Customer Service and Emergencies
13 1046

Power Problems and Emergencies
13 2296

Gas
Origin Energy

Customer enquiries & L P Gas orders
13 2462
Reticulated gas enquiries
13 2461
Gas Appliance Centre
13 1427
Service and installation enquiries
13 2774
For other gas suppliers see Yellow Pages

Telephone Connection

Telstra
13 2200

Optus
13 3937

Home Deliveries

Newspapers
Townsville Bulletin
4722 4400

For deliveries of The Australian, Courier Mail and Sunday Mail contact your local newsagent.

Health Services

See Health & Medical Related Services in the Community Services Section

Rubbish Collection

For information on scheduled rubbish collection contact your local Council:
Townsville 4727 9003
Thuringowa 4773 8411

Wheelie bins are used in Townsville and Thuringowa for the collection of household waste (garbage and recyclable material). The green lidded bin is for normal household garbage and the yellow lidded bin is for recycling paper, cardboard, plastics, cans and glass (contact your council for further information on recycling). Solid objects such as pieces of rock, steel or concrete must not be placed in wheelie bins.
Garbage is collected weekly and recyclable waste collected fortnightly on the same day, but not at the same time. Bins should be placed side by side at the edge of the footpath before 6am on collection day. Ensure that they are clear of trees and other obstructions with the wheels to the house.
Bins with identification numbers are specifically assigned to each street address. If a bin is lost, stolen or damaged it is the responsibility of the owner to either repair or replace it.
Parts and replacement bins are available from your local Council.

Dumps
Townsville
Vantassel Street, Stuart (10km from the CBD on the southbound highway)
Opening hours: 7 days a week from 6am - 6pm

Thuringowa
Hervey Range Road (8km from The Willows Shopping Centre)
Opening hours: 7 days a week from 6.30am - 6pm
Geaney Lane, Jensen (3km from the junction of Geaney Lane and Bruce Highway)
Opening hours: 7 days a week from 6.30am - 6pm

Bluewater Transfer Station (domestic waste only) Bluewater drive.
Opening hours: Weekends only

Domestic tipping fees are in force at all dumps. For details of these and designated free weekends contact your local council:
Townsville
4727 9003
Thuringowa
4773 8411

Water Restrictions

Sprinkling Days
Throughout Townsville and Thuringowa sprinklers and fixed irrigation systems should only be used on the following days:
Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays - properties with odd street numbers
Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays - properties with even street numbers.

The times that sprinklers can be used changes depending on dam levels.
Ring your council for current times.
Any person over the age of 16 may use a hand-held hose, at any time, provided the hose is held at or near the point of water discharge. Disregarding these restrictions may incur a fine

Water Allocation
Townsville and Thuringowa Councils allocate an amount of water to each household for each rateable year. Usage of water above these amounts will incur 'excess water' charges. To be aware of your water consumption it is advisable to know the amount of water allocated to your household and to read your water meter regularly. If readings appear incorrect meter testing is available for a fee which is refunded if the meter proves faulty.

For more information:
Townsville 4727 8950
Thuringowa 4773 8411

Tips on how to conserve water in the garden:

• Control the amount of water used by using a timer on taps
• Remove weeds
• Use mulch to retain moisture in the soil
• Grow native plants
• Group plants in the garden according to their watering needs
• Reduce lawn areas by combining a mulched garden and paved areas
• Water the garden in the early mornings or late afternoons to minimise evaporation Twenty minutes of watering, twice a week, is enough to keep a garden green & healthy.

Water Smart

Libraries

Townsville Library Service
City Branch Ist Floor Northtown Flinders Mall
4727 9666
Reference Desk
4727 9665

Aitkenvale Branch
4 Petunia Street
4727 8310
Reference Desk
4727 8312

Mobile Library Services
4727 8310
Home library service
Neighbourhood mobile library service (including Magnetic Island)

Thuringowa City Libraries
86 Thuringowa Drive
4773 8500
Full library facilities plus a mobile service to remote areas of Thuringowa

Flood Records & Maps

Townsville City Council
Walker Street Townsville

Thuringowa City Council
Thuringowa Drive Thuringowa

Electoral Information

Australian Electoral Commission (AEC)
13 2326

Australian Electoral Commission

Electoral Enrolment Forms plus reply paid envelopes are available at all offices of Australia Post.

Churches

See: Yellow Pages and / or Townsville Bulletin Saturday Edition

Handy Phone Numbers

Community Information Centre
4771 4230
A free information and referral service; publishes a variety of directories and information sheets 1st Floor Northtown Flinders Mall

Community Information Centre

Community Information Centre

Townsville City Council
Enquiries
4727 9000
After Hours
4727 8999
City Safe Officer
4727 9700
Animal Management
4727 9003

Townsville City Council

Thuringowa City Council
Customer Service
4773 8411
After Hours
4773 8411

Thuringowa City Council

Tourist Information Townsville Enterprise
4726 2728

Info Centres:
Flinders Mall
4721 3660
Bruce Highway
4778 3555

Tourist Information Townsville Enterprise

Tourist Information Townsville Enterprise

Australia Post
General enquiries
13 1318

Emergencies 000 for Ambulance, Fire, Police Ambulance - QAS
Office/Customer Service
1300 369 003
Bookings for non emergency ambulance transport
13 1233

Fire Services - Qld Fire & Rescue Service
Area Headquarters
4771 6024
0perations Safehome
1300 369 003
Firefighters can visit homes to provide advice on smoke alarm placement and maintenance, answer questions about safety, as well as check homes for any hazards. This is a free service.

Police
Townsville District Office
4726 8766
Townsville Stanley Street
4759 9777
Kirwan Thuringowa Drive
4726 1000
Mundingburra 263 Charters Towers Road
4726 8666
Magnetic Island 7 Granite St Picnic Bay
4778 5270
Stuart 501 Stuart Drive
4778 1210
Deeragun
4751 7777

Crime Stoppers
1800 333 000

State Emergency Services (SES)
4722 0000

The Townsville Hospital
4796 1111

Poisons Information Centre
13 1126

Good Health in Tropical North Queensland
Check out Queensland Health's website for information for health topics for new residents.
The site includes information on many topics including mosquito-borne diseases, marine stingers/ jellyfish and heat-related illnesses.

Good Health in Tropical North Queensland

Transport

Bikes
Bikes are a popular mode of transport in Townsville and Thuringowa and there is a good system of bikeways throughout the twin cities. The Townsville & Thuringowa Bikeways Map is currently out of print but can be viwed at the Community Information Centre at:
1st Floor Northtown, Flinders Mall

Under Queensland legislation it is compulsory for all bike riders to wear helmets manufactured to an approved standard. Failure to comply with this may result in a fine.
For information on safety and road rules for bike riders:

Bike User Guide

Local Bus Services
Sunbus
30 Bombala Street Garbutt
4725 8482

Sunbus

http://www.sunbus.com.au

Timetables are available from:

• Community Information Centre, Level 1 Northtown
• Tourist Information Centre, Flinders Mall
• Sunbus Office
• Bus drivers
• Stockland Information Centres.

Sunbus offers a Hail & Ride service. Clients are able to hail a bus at designated bus stops or anywhere between stops where it is safe for a bus to pull into the kerb.

Hermit Park Bus Service
25-31 Ross River Road
Hermit Park
4779 0537/ 1800 351 225

Hermit Park Bus Service

Provides a bus service between City Mall, Townsville and the Northern Beaches as well as school transport for eligible students from most areas to most schools.
Timetables are available from:

• Community Information Centre, Level 1 Northtown
• Tourist Information Centre, Flinders Mall
• Bus drivers; Bus Service office
• Bushland Beach shops; Caravan Parks Northern Beaches, Bohle and Blakey's Crossing
• Newsagent Woodlands Shopping Centre

School Bus Services
Campbells Coaches
4774 5099
Hermit Park Bus Service
4779 0537

Hermit Park Bus Service

Some private schools offer their own bus service. Please contact individual schools for information.

Coach Services
Abacus Charter & Tours - Airport Shuttle
275 Ingham Rd, Garbutt
1300 554 378
Pre-book 24 hours in advance for pickup and set-down at Townsville Airport. Services all suburbs.

Greyhound Australia
Sunferries Terminal, Sir Leslie Thiess Dve
Daily service west with multiple services, daily, south and north

Greyhound Australia

Terminal
4772 5100
Reservations
13 1499

Bus Freight
38 Morehead St, Sth T'ville
1800 656 532

Premier Motor Service
Transit Centre, Cnr Palmer and Plume Streets
South Townsville
Daily service south and north
Reservations
13 3410

Other Bus & Coach Services
See Yellow Pages

Taxi Services
Townsville Taxi
13 1008
11-15 Yeatman Street Hyde Park
4778 9550

Townsville Taxi

Townsville Taxi

Wheelchair accessible mini vans are available - book one hour or (if possible) 24 hours in advance

Ferry Services
Fantasea Cruising Magnetic
Ross Street South Townsville Car and passenger ferry - multiple services daily between Townsville and Magnetic Island.
Bookings essential
4772 5422

Sunferries Magnetic Island Pty Ltd
Breakwater Terminal, Leslie Thiess Dve
1800 447 333 / 4771 3855
Multiple services daily between Townsville and Magnetic Island plus trips to John Brewer Reef on four days per week and a service to Magnetic Island and Orpheus Island on Fridays

Rail Services
Queensland Rail
Long Distance Travel (reservations)
13 2232
Enquiries (arrivals/departures)
13 2235

Queensland Rail Travel Centre
502 Flinders Street
4772 8358

Townsville Railway Station
4772 8623

Rail Freight Q-Link - Townsville
Saunders Street Railway Estate
4772 8412

Airline Services
All airline companies operate through
Townsville Airport - Domestic Terminal
Coral Sea Drive Garbutt

Jetstar
Enquiries
13 1538

Jetstar

Qantas Airways Limited
General enquiries
Telephone Sales
Flight information
13 1313
Internet reservations

Qantas Airways Limited

Virgin Blue Airlines Pty Ltd
General enquiries
Phone reservations
13 6789
Internet reservations

Virgin Blue Airlines Pty Ltd

Other Airline Services
See Yellow Pages

Driving Schools
See Yellow Pages

Department of Transport
146 Wills Street Townsville
13 2380
Renewal of all drivers' licences

• registration renewals
• private marine registration & licensing
• transfer of ownership of Queensland registered vehicles
• learners' written tests
• transfer of interstate and overseas drivers' licences

Department of Transport
21 Leyland Street Garbutt
13 2380

• learners' permits
• driving tests - written and practical
• practical driving tests for bikes and heavy vehicles
• issue of new licences for bikes and heavy vehicles
• renewal of all drivers' licences
• re-registration and inspections of used vehicles
• private marine registration & licensing
• dealer transactions
• applications for driver authorisation/industry licensing
• transfer of interstate and overseas drivers' licences
• transfer of ownership of all vehicles

Driving Test Bookings
13 2390
School Transport
4758 7547
Road Safety Education and Information
4758 7505
Opening Hours
Mon Tues Thurs Fri 8.30am - 4.30pm
Wed 9.30am - 4.30pm
Road Rules
The booklet Your Keys to Driving in Queensland Is available from Queensland Transport and most newsagencies - a fee applies

Department of Transport

RACQ
202 Ross River Road
Aitkenvale
Vehicle Inspection Centre
4775 3999

635 Sturt Street
Townsville (City Agency)
4721 4888

Road Service (24 hours)
Breakdowns
13 1111
SMS number
042 7131 111
General Enquiries
13 1905
TTY for members with impaired hearing
1800 623 101
Child Restraints Advice/Sales
1800 816 523
Members' Legal Advisory Traffic & Safety Advice/Investigations
3361 2802

Community Transport
Community Care Transport
A transport service for the frail and/or 'at risk' aged and younger persons with disabilities whose transport needs cannot be met by families or existing facilities. A wheelchair accessible bus is available.
4779 9911

Queensland Ambulance Service
Specialised patient transport services; baby capsule hire.
1300 369 003
(non-emergency transport with doctor's authorisation - 24 hour notice required)
13 12 33

Townsville and Thuringowa Transport Solutions (TOTTS) & Shared Transport
A community transport organisation, conducted by volunteers, providing affordable transport to seniors, people with disabilities and also the disadvantaged. Dedicated to alleviating the isolation caused by the lack of accessible, affordable public transport. Also operating as brokers for organised groups requiring bus transport within the greater cities area. Some cost involved by users.
4755 0645

Taxi Subsidy Scheme - Qld Transport
Aims to improve the mobility of people with severe disabilities. Application forms are available at Queensland
Transport 146 Wills Street City & 21
Leyland Street Garbutt or can be downloaded from:

Transport Information

Applications are processed in Brisbane.

Transport Subsidy Scheme for Pensioners
For pensioners living in Townsville City. The subsidy provides an additional 30% discount on top of the normal 50% Bus Pension Discount.
4727 9714

Animal Management

Pet Care
Besides caring for the everyday welfare of your dog(s) it is important to provide them with

• heart worm medication and vaccinations against distemper, parvo virus and hepatitis (with veterinary advice)
• treatment for ticks and
• Veterinary surgeons recommend that cats be vaccinated against Feline Enteritis and Cat Flu

Local Laws
The Councils of Townsville and Thuringowa have local laws governing the keeping of pets in the twin cities.
Under these laws you should be aware that:

• in Townsville, dogs must be registered from eight weeks of age, on acquisition, or within twenty eight days of moving to the city (proof of such will be required)
• in Townsville, registration is payable annually in June and can be made at the Administration Building, Walker Street and at Australia Post, Picnic Bay Mall, Magnetic Island, by phone or on Council's internet site.
• in Thuringowa dogs must be registered from six months of age
• in Thuringowa, registration is payable annually in June at the Council's offices, at any Australia Post, by mail, or on the Council's internet site. For new residents, registration with another council will be transferred free of charge. Proof of current registration and evidence of de-sexing will be required
• discounts are offered by both Councils for early payment of registration, to pensioner/owners and owners of de-sexed animals - contact Councils directly for the applicable fees
• registration tags must be worn by dogs at all times
• dogs must be leashed when in public throughout Townsville and Thuringowa, except in those areas designated off leash

Off Leash Areas are:

• Lou Litster Park - between Boundary Street, Queens Road and Philip Street, Hermit Park
• Pallarenda Beach - between access points 8 & 9
• Cambridge Park - between Cambridge Avenue and Hodges Court, Vincent
• Murray Park - Murray Lyons Crescent, Murray
• Benwell Rd - beach side between Archer and Boundary St, South Townsville
• Rossiter Park - between access points 8 & 9
• a straying dog causes distress to neighbours and the public; make sure your fence is adequate to contain your dog on your property; a dog can be impounded (at the Animal Refuge) by Council personnel if found straying
• you should pick up after your pet; along the Strand and in off leash areas there are bins and dispensers in place for your convenience
• on the Strand dogs must be exercised on the grassed and paved areas only; dogs are not allowed on the beaches, in the Rockpool, stinger enclosures, around the water park, near play equipment or barbecue and picnic areas; for other restricted areas contact your local Council
• excessive barking can be a nuisance; a dog often barks when it is bored, lonely, separated from its owner, or is new to a neighbourhood; if your dog barks excessively, it is recommended that you seek advice from a professional animal behaviourist or a vet
• dogs are not allowed to attack or injure another animal or a person in a public place: should this happen the dog could be declared dangerous; special rules apply for dangerous dogs
• on Magnetic Island cats must be de-sexed and implanted with microchip identifiers before five months of age
• in some circumstances permits are required to keep animals - contact your local Council with regard to keeping more than two dogs, more than two cats, a dog in a multiple building, a dog for the purpose of breeding, pit bull terriers and dangerous dogs, poultry, ducks, geese, peacocks and hens, reptiles and caged birds
• pet rabbits and ferrets are not permitted in the State of Queensland
• fines can be imposed for failure to comply with State Laws and the Councils' Local Laws.

Animal Refuge
Acts as the animal refuge for City Councils has a re-homing program, a pet cremation service and a hydro bath service. Headquarters for all animal cruelty matters.
RSPCA Townsville
69 Tompkins Road, Bohle
4774 5130

Pet Crematoriums
See Yellow Pages under Pet Cemeteries

Veterinary Services
See Yellow Pages

Boarding Kennels & Catteries
See Yellow Pages

Obedience Schools
See Recreation Information Sheet - Dogs & See Yellow Pages

Native Fauna

Be aware that native fauna may be protected. If you find a native bird or animal which is sick, injured or unable to fend for itself take it to a vet who will treat it free of charge and refer it to a wildlife carer if necessary.
Contact Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service
4796 7777
if you require:

• the removal of a snake from your property
• information on the management of possums on your property or need to report:
• swooping magpies or peewees.

If you have a complaint or need more information on the Councils' local laws on the keeping of animals please telephone:
Environmental Health Services,
Townsville City Council
4727 9003

Townsville City Council

(click on dog with wagging tail)

Thuringowa City Council
4773 8411

Thuringowa City Council

Community Services

Community Information (Townsville & District)
Provides a free information and referral service. Collects and offers information on a wide variety of issues of concern to members of the community.
4771 4230

Community Information (Townsville & District)

Emergency Services

Emergency 000
Fire Services - Qld Fire & Rescue Service

Fire
Townsville 4771 2111
Kirwan 4773 3255
Woodlands 4774 4087
Wulguru 4778 4313
Magnetic Island 4778 5005

Police
Townsville 4759 9777
Kirwan 4726 1000
Mundingburra 4726 8666
Magnetic Island 4778 5270
Stuart 4778 1210
Deeragun 4751 7777
Townsville Juvenile Bureau4759 9743
Townsville Cross Cultural Support Unit 4759 9761
Water Police 4760 7812
Qld Police Missing Persons Unit 1800 017 744
Police Beats Garbutt 4775 6404
Kelso 4774 0905
Rasmussen 4773 7658
South Townsville 4772 5620
Police Shopfronts
Finders Mall 4772 7222
Stockland 4728 2220
Willows 4723 9678

Ambulance - Q.A.S.
Office/ Customer Service 1300 369 003

State Emergency Service (SES)
Disaster relief, public awareness, PR,
Search & Rescue
24 Hours 4722 0000

Community & Support Groups

For information on support groups, community centres & associations contact the Community Information Centre
4771 4230

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Services & Groups

Aboriginal & Islanders Health Services Ltd (Townsville)
Community based and controlled health care service that is culturally appropriate to the indigenous community
4759 4000
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Community Legal Services
Legal Aid to Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders
1800 074 463 24 Hours
Magani Malu Kes Townsville Ltd
Resource, information and training centre for Indigenous people
4771 5740
Indigenous Coordination Centre
Coordination of Indigenous-specific programs in the region
4760 1099 or 1800 079 098

Accommodation Services

Department of Housing
Receives applications for Public Rental Accommodation.
Bond and Rent Assistance on private accommodation if eligible. Scheme whereby people can buy/build home
General Enquiries: 4760 7378
THRU -Townsville Housing Resource Unit Inc
Assists people with housing needs to access appropriate agencies, government or community based.
Provides tenancy information advice and advocacy
General Enquiries: 4721 5011
Tenancy Advice: 4772 5617
1800 772 561
FEAT Inc
Supported Accommodation. Provides a service to families in housing crisis
4772 2686
Community Rent Scheme Association
Transitional housing for people on low incomes who have severe and immediate housing needs. Applicants must be active on the Public Housing Waiting List.
4772 5530

Aged

Commonwealth Carelink Centre - Northern Region
Information and referral service for all Australians - care recipients, carers, service providers, general practitioners and allied health personnel. Provides detailed information on health, aged care and disability services
1800 052 222
Aged Care Assessment Team
To assist frail aged and people with a disability to remain in the community with support, or to access accommodation suitable to their needs. Referral directly to Intake Officer by client or family and health professionals
4799 9350
Carers Queensland
Service to those who are caring for a relative or friend who has a disability, chronic illness or is frail aged
4773 5808 or 1800 242 636
Commonwealth Carer Respite Centre - Northern Region
Provides advice, information, referral and support services to carers in the Northern Region of Queensland
1800 059 059
Home Services - Townsville City Council
Home Maintenance Services & Home Assist Secure Eligibility Criteria
Information Centre
4727 9025
Retirement Villages and Nursing Homes
For information, contact the Community
Information Centre
4771 4230

Children & Young People

Child Care Information Service
Department of Communities
1800 637 711

Child Care Information Service

Child Care
For Child Care Options:
Community Information Centre
4771 4230
Child Care Centres
Check Yellow Pages
Child, Youth & Family Health Services
Queensland Health Department. Free community-based service provided to families by qualified health professionals specialising in child and adolescent health issues (0-18 years)
4799 9000
Children's Contact Centre
Provides supervised contact and changeover for children in a physically and emotionally safe environment
4771 3780
Abused Child Trust Contact House
Therapeutic health education & counselling services to children & families caught in the cycle of abuse & neglect
4779 0611
Department of Child Safety
Provide prevention, statutory and support services to children, youth and families in response to child abuse and neglect.
Townsville 4799 7900
Thuringowa 4773 8222
Child Protection Agency Crisis
After Hours 1800 177 135
Kids Help Line
1800 55 1800 24 Hours 7 days
Lifeline Youth Services
4779 9911
Qld Youth Services Inc
Information, referral, support and advocacy service for young people ages 12 - 25 years
4771 3648
Playgroup Association
Contact for local groups.
1800 171 882

People with a Disability

Commonwealth Carelink Centre - Northern Region
Refer to Services for the Aged Disability Services Qld (DSQ)
Serves people with an intellectual disability who have high support needs and/or challenging behaviour
4727 0666
Independent Advocacy in the Tropics
4725 2505
Commonwealth Carer Respite Centre - Northern Region
Refer to Services for the Aged Carers Queensland
Guide Dogs Qld
4728 6922
Spinal Injuries Association
4755 1755 or 1800 024 422
Mental Illness Fellowship of North Queensland Inc
4725 3664

Environment / Natural Resource Management

Coastal Dry Tropics Landcare Inc
4721 4322
Environmental Protection Agency
4722 5211
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority
4750 0700
North Queensland Conservation Council Inc
4771 6226
Reef & National Parks Information Centre
Bookings for National Parks camping grounds, information on parks, tracks etc.
4722 5224
Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland Townsville Branch Inc
4773 3945
For a list of environment groups and associations contact the Community
Information Centre 4771 4230

Families

Defence Community Organisation
Concerned with the well-being of defence personnel and their dependants
4753 6539
Parentline
1300 301 300 8am - 10pm 7 days
Centacare - Family & Relationship Counselling
Provides counselling to individuals, couples and families regarding issues in the area of families and relationships
4772 9000
Family Relationship Centre
Information, resources and referrals for families. Assistance to preserve family relationships, assist couples preparing for marriage and parenting help. Mediation and dispute resolution for separating families with a focus on the best interests of the child.
285 Ross River Rd Aitkenvale
4779 4211
Lifeline North Qld
Provides support through various family & youth programs: Home visits, groups, counselling, advocacy, liaison and information
4779 9911
13 11 14 - 24 Hours Counselling
North Queensland Domestic Violence Resource Service Inc
Information, support and referral for victims of family violence, intimate personal violence, informal carer violence (aged and disability). Assistance with protection orders; counselling for children; community education and training; programs for men who have been violent
4721 2888
Relationships Australia Family Support Service
Provides individual and group support to parents and care-providers of children 0-17 years
1300 364 277

Health & Medical Related

After Hours GP Service
GP On-call System operates outside
Clinic hours
Call Centre: 1300 552 252
Alcohol, Tobacco & Other Drug Services
Provides information, assessment, counselling, referral and treatment for anyone with concerns related to the use of alcohol or other drugs
4778 9677
1800 177 833 Counselling & Support
Community Health Services Townsville District Health Services
Provides a wide variety of services including some therapy services, counselling, assessment & referral
4799 9500
Dental Clinic
All general dental services are provided to eligible clients.
1300 300 850
Dentists
See Yellow Pages
Doctors
See Yellow Pages
Family Planning Queensland
4723 8184
The Townsville Hospital
All public hospital and community health services. Provide higher expertise services such as oncology, cardiac procedures, surgery and neonatology to residents in catchment area
4796 1111
Magnetic Island Health Service
A Primary Health Care facility affiliated with the Townsville Hospital. Operated by registered nurses with a nurse and doctor on call 24 hours
4778 5107
Mater Misericordiae Private Hospitals
Pimlico 4727 4444
Hyde Park 4722 8822
Integrated Mental Health Service
First point of contact for all mental health enquiries
4796 3000 24 Hours
Sexual Health Service
A service providing information, counselling, education, testing and treatment for sexually transmissible infections, sexual relationship problems and sexual problems in general. Free and confidential. Free Needle and Syringe Exchange
4778 9600

Legal Services, Consumer Protection

Anti Discrimination Commission Queensland
Investigation of complaints of unlawful discrimination and sexual harassment
1300 130 670
1300 130 680 (TTY)
Dispute Resolution Service
Dispute resolution through mediation. Free, impartial, voluntary, confidential
1800 809 605
Financial Counselling Service
4721 5511
Legal Aid Queensland
Free legal advice. Legal assistance subject to means and merits test may be granted in Civil, Criminal and Family Law matters
1300 651 188
North Queensland Women's Legal Service
Free legal advice, info and referral by appointment + Indigenous Women's Service
4772 5400 1800 244 504
Office of Fair Trading
Provides services including regulation, consultation, advocacy, enforcement, education and support to foster a dynamic, competitive, informed and safe Queensland market environment
General Enquiries: 13 13 04
Public Trustee
Prepares wills; finalises the affairs of deceased persons; attends to affairs of living persons with certain disabilities; change of name by Deed Poll; Enduring Power of Attorney; financial investment services
4753 0111
Seniors Legal & Support Service
Legal advice, casework, advocacy, support for seniors experiencing, or at risk of, elder abuse or financial exploitation. Community education.
4721 5511
Townsville Community Legal Service
Legal advice, information & referral - any legal matter, Welfare Rights Service (Centrelink atters),Financial
Counselling Service (debt and credit matters) Discrimination Law, Immigration Law.
4721 5511

Multicultural

Ethnic Community Care Links Inc
Tailor individual support and access to quality services for the aged, younger people with disabilities and their carers from all cultural backgrounds who are living at home.
4723 9419
Diversecare
Provides information and education to culturally and linguistically diverse clients of aged and younger disabled services and assists them to gain equitable access to services which are culturally appropriate. Provides information, education and training to all aged care service providers to assist them to provide culturally inclusive care and support to consumers from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
4723 1470
Migrant Resource Centre Townsville- Thuringowa Ltd
Facilities for orientation programs for newly arrived migrants; Confidential guidance and information.
4772 4800
Townsville Multicultural Support Group Inc
Support, advocacy, counselling, referrals and group programs for recently arrived migrants and refugees.
4775 1588
For a list of multicultural groups and associations contact the Community
Information Centre 4771 4230

Nursing Services

Blue Care - Blue Nursing Service
4772 4699
Green Nurses Pty Ltd
1800 999 244
Spiritus Nursing Service
4722 0400

Women

Office of Women's Policy
1800 177 577
Women's Centre - Nth Qld Combined
Women's Services
Information, support, referral, counselling, women's health, groups, refuge referral, sexual assault counselling & rape crisis call out service.
4775 7555
24 Hour Crisis Line: 1800 657 501
Women's Shelters
Contact Women's Centre
4775 7555

Employment

Centrelink
307-311 Ross River Rd Aitkenvale
PO Box 906 Aitkenvale 4814
13 10 21 Appointments
13 28 50 Employment Services
13 12 02 Multilingual Service
13 63 80 Indigenous Services
1800 810 586 Teletypewriter Service

Centrelink

Job Network
Employment Services Info Line
13 62 68

Job Network

A national network dedicated to finding jobs for unemployed people, particularly the long-term unemployed. Provides:

• Job Search Support; and
• Intensive Support

Extra help is available for those with special needs or who live in remote areas
Who is eligible?
Those registered with Centrelink, looking for work and receiving a qualifying Centrelink allowance, are able to access Job Search Support services and register with a Job Network member

• Denotes Job Network Members below

New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS)
An Australian Government initiative that helps unemployed people to set up and run their own businesses
13 62 68 Employment Services Hotline

• Denotes NEIS providers below

Employment Agencies
Active Labour Hire
235 Charters Towers Rd Hermit Park
4779 9588
All trades and industrial
Adecco
Shop 2/234 Charters Towers Rd Hermit Park
4722 9900

Adecco