Island escape of the week: Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island, Australia Picture / Tourism and Events Queensland

Location

•8km off the coast of Townsville, North Queensland Getting there 20min ferry ride from Townsville Bragging rights

•23 bays and beaches

•Australia's largest colony of koalas - 2500 residents

•320 days of sunshine

More than two-thirds of the island is classified National Park and bird sanctuary Because of its proximity to Townsville, Magnetic Island was a significant anchorage and assembly point for large fleets and convoys in World War II. The defence base ruins are a popular attraction Famous for fishing - marlin, sailfish, mackerel, wahoo, giant trevally, dogtooth tuna, coral trout, mahi-mahi, tuna, red emperor and sea perch are caught here Interesting facts Magnetic Island is best discovered by driving around in a classic Moke or topless car The annual Adventurethon is an adrenalin-charged multisport challenge incorporating paddling, mountain biking and offroad running The name came from the island's "magnetic" effect on Captain Cook's compass as he sailed past in in 1770. Magnetic Island has its own Mt Cook - slightly lower than ours at 497m (1631ft)