Have dog will travel! That is the motto of almost everyone in the greyhound industry and is the reason why its followers are among the most travelled of any Aussie. Each month Chase will highlight a spot on the map of Australia, usually coinciding with a major greyhound race, and explain why you should stop off and smell the roses. This month we look at Townsville.

SURROUNDED by tropical islands and lush rainforests, Townsville offers easy living met with endless activities.
Just eight kilometres off the coast of Townsville sits beautiful Magnetic Island. The crystal blue waters, secluded beaches, kilometres of walking tracks, and abundant wildlife makes this island the perfect getaway for couples and families. Snorkel, dive, hike, rent a topless car, check out the local bars and cafes, search the island for koalas, and check out the surreal Museum of Underwater Art.
For snorkelling and diving experiences, stop into Townsville’s only Instructor training centre Remote Area Dive and book in to one of their many tours.
Explore Townsville’s stunning World Heritage Rainforest region from the comfort of a luxury seven-seater 4WD. Family-owned North Queensland Tours provide small personalised day tours by award-winning experts. See the hidden gems of North Queensland such as the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area of Paluma, Little Crystal Creek, and Australia’s highest permanent single drop waterfall, Wallaman Falls.
Grab some fresh mountain air at Castle Hill, the giant pink granite monolith that sits at the centre of Townsville. Take in the 360 degree views of the city and surrounding islands, and walk the many walking tracks. The iconic hill also has history – it was used by visiting American soldiers during World War II. A World War II observation bunker can be found on one corner of the Hill reminding visitors of Castle Hill’s military past. 
Stop for a beer and a feed at The Townsville Brewery. Opened in 1889 and originally known as The Townsville Post and Telegraph Office, the building oozes Victorian architecture and served as the principle avenue of communication well into the 20th century. The distinctive clock tower was added towards the end of the construction and the chimes that were a part of daily life in Townsville were imported from England in 1891. In 1942 Australia was at war and the post office was the training venue for Morse coding for the local cadets.

Learn more about the building’s history and join the locals and try one of the unique and original craft beers at this family-owned micro-brewery.
Take an afternoon walk along The Strand, Townsville’s bustling beach foreshore. The walkway spans over two and a half kilometres and offers views across to Magnetic Island. Enjoy watching the ocean with a meal at one of the restaurants or cafes there.
Sundays are spent at Cotters Markets, held every Sunday from 8.30am until 1pm. Here locals and visitors rush to grab the freshest produce, listen to live music, and browse the 150 stalls filled with jewellery, fashion, woodwork, home-baked cakes, and local arts and crafts. Visit North Queensland’s largest markets located on Flinders Street.