Townsville in winter: Art, music, sunshine and one world-class ceramics exhibition
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As temperatures drop across the southern states, Townsville’s winter truly begins to shine, welcoming visitors with endless blue skies, gentle sea breezes, and sunny days that invite you to linger a little longer.
This laid-back North Queensland city offers the perfect escape from the chill, where you can trade scarves for sandals and grey skies for glowing sunsets.
But it’s not just the weather that draws people north.
Townsville’s winter cultural calendar is bursting with events, exhibitions, and experiences that celebrate art, history, music, and community*.
Whether you're a lifelong lover of the arts, a curious history buff, a music enthusiast, or someone who enjoys discovering something new, you’ll find yourself delightfully at home in this vibrant regional hub.
Here are five great reasons to make Townsville your winter escape in 2025.
Running from 6 April to 24 August 2025, Wedgwood: Artists and Industry* is a landmark event for Townsville and Australia.
Hosted at the historic Perc Tucker Regional Gallery, this 100-piece exhibition comes directly from London’s iconic Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)*. It marks the first time such a significant Wedgwood collection has been shown in the country.
Far more than a display of porcelain, the exhibition charts over 200 years of design, innovation, and cultural influence*.
From the pioneering vision of Josiah Wedgwood—a man often likened to an 18th-century branding genius—to his collaborations with royalty and world-renowned artists, this is Wedgwood as you’ve never seen it before.
You’ll encounter exquisite works by legendary designers such as Vera Wang, Eduardo Paolozzi, and even contemporary fashion provocateur Charles Jeffrey (LOVERBOY).
These names sit alongside striking pieces from Sheila Bridges and Lee Broom, showing Wedgwood's ceramic artistry's global, cross-generational impact.
For history lovers, the exhibition also touches on Wedgwood’s ties to Australia’s colonial narrative.
Explorer Joseph Banks supplied Josiah Wedgwood with clay from Sydney Cove, which was used to craft a medallion commemorating the First Fleet’s landing in 1788. It’s a compelling fusion of artistry and historical context.
Dr Holly Arden, Director of Townsville City Galleries, calls the exhibition a ‘once-in-a-lifetime opportunity’ for visitors*.
For good reason, Wedgwood: Artists and Industry is exclusive to Townsville in 2025* and marks the first paid exhibition ever hosted at the Perc Tucker Regional Gallery, elevating the gallery to national standards.
So, whether you're an avid collector, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates craftsmanship and design*, this immersive experience is a must-see.
For three magical days in June (6–8), Foots Hill Station will come alive with music, laughter and community spirit.
The 2025 Townsville Folk Festival* offers a warm, laid-back atmosphere with a program full of folk, blues and world music*, all performed by a mix of local and interstate talent.
Perfect for families, couples or solo travellers alike, the festival also features artisan markets, circus acts, workshops, and a Kids Fest.
With onsite camping and a strong commitment to sustainability, the Folk Festival is a wholesome winter escape nestled in the bushland of Reid River.
If you're in town a little earlier, don't miss the Festival Launch Party on 10 May at the Herbert Hotel—five live bands, good food, and great company await.
Fans of film, science and adventure will be drawn to James Cameron – Challenging the Deep*, currently showing at Queensland Museum Tropics.
This impressive exhibition dives into Cameron’s passion for deep-sea exploration, combining cinema-scale projections, fascinating artefacts, and behind-the-scenes access to his record-breaking submersible dive.
You’ll find props and memorabilia from Titanic, The Abyss, and Avatar, along with real-world technologies pioneered by Cameron that are now used in ocean exploration around the globe.
This family-friendly exhibition is both educational and inspiring, perfect for a relaxed winter day indoors.
Winter in Townsville doesn’t mean coats and scarves—it means beach walks, gelato and sunshine.
The Strand is Townsville’s oceanfront promenade*, with palm-lined paths, picnic spots, and panoramic views of Magnetic Island*.
Whether you’re an early riser enjoying a sunrise stroll or just looking to dip your toes in the Coral Sea, The Strand is a picture-perfect place to unwind*.
Grab a coffee, sit on one of the many benches, and simply soak up the warm, coastal atmosphere.
Just a 20-minute ferry ride from Townsville lies Magnetic Island*, home to stunning bays*, walking tracks, and a thriving population of wild koalas.
Take a gentle hike up to Forts Walk for sweeping views and a chance to spot native wildlife, or enjoy a relaxing day at Horseshoe Bay.
Whether you're adventuring or relaxing, ‘Maggie’ offers that timeless island charm with a distinctly Aussie flavour*. It’s the perfect complement to your Townsville winter getaway.
Whether you’re coming for the culture, the coast, or a bit of both, it’s more than worth the journey.
Have you visited Townsville before? What would you be most excited to see this winter? Let us know in the comments below!
*Please note, members, that this is a sponsored article. All content of ours that has an asterisk next to it means we may get a commission when you click on a link—at no cost to you! We do this to assist with the costs of running the SDC. Thank you!
This laid-back North Queensland city offers the perfect escape from the chill, where you can trade scarves for sandals and grey skies for glowing sunsets.
But it’s not just the weather that draws people north.
From beaches to galleries, there’s something for every kind of explorer in Townsville. Image source: This is Magnetic Island.
Townsville’s winter cultural calendar is bursting with events, exhibitions, and experiences that celebrate art, history, music, and community*.
Whether you're a lifelong lover of the arts, a curious history buff, a music enthusiast, or someone who enjoys discovering something new, you’ll find yourself delightfully at home in this vibrant regional hub.
Here are five great reasons to make Townsville your winter escape in 2025.
1. See a Landmark Exhibition: Wedgwood: Artists and Industry*
Over 100 remarkable Wedgwood pieces are on show in Australia for the first time. Image source: Townsville City Council*.
Running from 6 April to 24 August 2025, Wedgwood: Artists and Industry* is a landmark event for Townsville and Australia.
Hosted at the historic Perc Tucker Regional Gallery, this 100-piece exhibition comes directly from London’s iconic Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)*. It marks the first time such a significant Wedgwood collection has been shown in the country.
Exclusive to Townsville in 2025—this is your only chance to see Wedgwood on this scale. Image source: Townsville City Council*.
Far more than a display of porcelain, the exhibition charts over 200 years of design, innovation, and cultural influence*.
From the pioneering vision of Josiah Wedgwood—a man often likened to an 18th-century branding genius—to his collaborations with royalty and world-renowned artists, this is Wedgwood as you’ve never seen it before.
You’ll encounter exquisite works by legendary designers such as Vera Wang, Eduardo Paolozzi, and even contemporary fashion provocateur Charles Jeffrey (LOVERBOY).
These names sit alongside striking pieces from Sheila Bridges and Lee Broom, showing Wedgwood's ceramic artistry's global, cross-generational impact.
A rare glimpse into the artistry behind one of the world’s most enduring design legacies. Image source: Townsville City Council*.
For history lovers, the exhibition also touches on Wedgwood’s ties to Australia’s colonial narrative.
Explorer Joseph Banks supplied Josiah Wedgwood with clay from Sydney Cove, which was used to craft a medallion commemorating the First Fleet’s landing in 1788. It’s a compelling fusion of artistry and historical context.
Dr Holly Arden, Director of Townsville City Galleries, calls the exhibition a ‘once-in-a-lifetime opportunity’ for visitors*.
Explore centuries of design and innovation at this world-class exhibition. Image source: Townsville City Council*.
For good reason, Wedgwood: Artists and Industry is exclusive to Townsville in 2025* and marks the first paid exhibition ever hosted at the Perc Tucker Regional Gallery, elevating the gallery to national standards.
So, whether you're an avid collector, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates craftsmanship and design*, this immersive experience is a must-see.
- What: Wedgwood: Artists and Industry*
- When: 6 April – 24 August 2025
- Where: Perc Tucker Regional Gallery, Townsville
- Tickets: Book here*.
2. Celebrate Music and Community at the 2025 Townsville Folk Festival*
Kick back at Foots Hill Station and let the folk, blues and good vibes flow. Image source: Townsville City Council.
For three magical days in June (6–8), Foots Hill Station will come alive with music, laughter and community spirit.
The 2025 Townsville Folk Festival* offers a warm, laid-back atmosphere with a program full of folk, blues and world music*, all performed by a mix of local and interstate talent.
Perfect for families, couples or solo travellers alike, the festival also features artisan markets, circus acts, workshops, and a Kids Fest.
With onsite camping and a strong commitment to sustainability, the Folk Festival is a wholesome winter escape nestled in the bushland of Reid River.
If you're in town a little earlier, don't miss the Festival Launch Party on 10 May at the Herbert Hotel—five live bands, good food, and great company await.
- Main Festival: 6–8 June 2025
- Where: Foots Hill Station, Reid River
- More info here*.
3. Go Deep with James Cameron at Queensland Museum Tropics*
Dive into the deep blue with film director James Cameron’s epic undersea journeys. Image source: Townsville City Council.
Fans of film, science and adventure will be drawn to James Cameron – Challenging the Deep*, currently showing at Queensland Museum Tropics.
This impressive exhibition dives into Cameron’s passion for deep-sea exploration, combining cinema-scale projections, fascinating artefacts, and behind-the-scenes access to his record-breaking submersible dive.
You’ll find props and memorabilia from Titanic, The Abyss, and Avatar, along with real-world technologies pioneered by Cameron that are now used in ocean exploration around the globe.
This family-friendly exhibition is both educational and inspiring, perfect for a relaxed winter day indoors.
- Where: Queensland Museum Tropics, Flinders Street
- When: Until 25 October 2025
- Tickets: From $12.50
- More info here*.
4. Soak Up the Winter Sun on The Strand*
Grab a coffee, find a bench, and watch the world (and the waves) go by. Image source: Samantha Gilmore/Unsplash.
Winter in Townsville doesn’t mean coats and scarves—it means beach walks, gelato and sunshine.
The Strand is Townsville’s oceanfront promenade*, with palm-lined paths, picnic spots, and panoramic views of Magnetic Island*.
Whether you’re an early riser enjoying a sunrise stroll or just looking to dip your toes in the Coral Sea, The Strand is a picture-perfect place to unwind*.
Grab a coffee, sit on one of the many benches, and simply soak up the warm, coastal atmosphere.
5. Explore Magnetic Island’s Natural Wonders*
From koala spotting to coastal views, ‘Maggie’ is made for slow, scenic days. Image source: ROMAIN TERPREAU/Unsplash.
Just a 20-minute ferry ride from Townsville lies Magnetic Island*, home to stunning bays*, walking tracks, and a thriving population of wild koalas.
Take a gentle hike up to Forts Walk for sweeping views and a chance to spot native wildlife, or enjoy a relaxing day at Horseshoe Bay.
Whether you're adventuring or relaxing, ‘Maggie’ offers that timeless island charm with a distinctly Aussie flavour*. It’s the perfect complement to your Townsville winter getaway.
Plan Your Trip
With so much to see and do—anchored by the world-class Wedgwood: Artists and Industry exhibition*—Townsville is ready to surprise and delight visitors this winter.Whether you’re coming for the culture, the coast, or a bit of both, it’s more than worth the journey.
Have you visited Townsville before? What would you be most excited to see this winter? Let us know in the comments below!
*Please note, members, that this is a sponsored article. All content of ours that has an asterisk next to it means we may get a commission when you click on a link—at no cost to you! We do this to assist with the costs of running the SDC. Thank you!
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