Top Things to do in Townsville with International Students
Homestay hosts have an important role in helping students new to Australia settle in and learn the local way of life. For many young people, it’s their first time being away from their home and their family. Getting to know the city and becoming part of the community goes a long way in making them feel comfortable in their surroundings. Here are some ideas to get your guests out and about if you’re a homestay host in Townsville.
Sports and Events
Taking international students to see local sports teams play is a great introduction to Aussie culture. Catching a North Queensland Cowboys game on a Sunday afternoon or seeing three-time WNBL champions the JCU Townsville Fire play for a roaring crowd will set their competitive spirit alight.
The Townsville Cultural Festival, Townsville Show and Strand Ephemera Festival are just some of the events that showcase the vibrant spirit and diversity of the region. People from all walks of life travel across Queensland and beyond to attend events like these, giving international guests a real feel for how we come together and celebrate the best of North Queensland.
The Great Outdoors
Townsville is blessed with a stack of outdoor attractions and recreational areas that can be enjoyed year round.
Swimming spots like The Strand Rockpool and Riverway Lagoons can be handy for students who haven’t grown up around the water while Alma Bay and Crystal Creek are perfect for the more adventurous.
Jezzine Barracks has a lot to offer with its scenic lookouts, public artworks and a coastal boardwalk. The Street Art City Walking Trail is a unique activity that can also act as a mini tour so students become familiar with the CBD.
A Taste of Townsville
There’s a reason the term “comfort food” exists. Sharing a meal brings people together and can help bridge cultural divides. A BBQ at home or in one of the parks around Townsville is a good option or taking the ferry over to Magentic Island for a picnic could be a novel outing for your homestay visitors. Give them the opportunity to try Australian seafood, tropical fruits or specialty foods from outlets like Otto’s Market so they can experience how fantastic our local produce is. NOTE: You don’t have to provide these items as part of your guest’s meal plan; just show them the best places to find it.
Nature
With amazing wildlife, national parks and an aquatic backyard, there’s plenty to do in Townsville in between studying and exams.
A trip to the Billabong Sanctuary offers a close encounter with native Aussie animals including interactive experiences you can’t get in the wild. Of course, you might also get the chance to point out a wallaby or any number of birds as you’re going about your daily routine, which can be exciting for overseas visitors.
Active homestay families might like to pop down to the Town Common for a hike along Smedley’s Trail and enjoy the island views, take the forest walk along the Barramundi Waterhole or make your way down to Shelly Beach. A weekend excursion to Bushland Beach for swimming, fishing and water activities would go down well when it’s “hot as” or for something extra special, take your guest over to Horseshoe Bay for a day out on Maggie.
