Itinerary Planner: The Chemist Warehouse Women's National Basketball League (WNBL)

There’s more to balmy summer weather in Queensland’s northern cities of Townsville, Mackay, and Cairns, as the 2020 Chemist Warehouse Women’s National Basketball League plays out this season throughout November and December.

With over 60 games hosted by the WNBL, follow our tracks as we take a road trip through Queensland’s tropical north regions, and discover the best places to stay, eat and play.

Experience Townsville

What to do

Fill your days exploring Townsville by land or sea, or stick to the town’s treasure trove of activities. Trek to the top of Castle Hill for 360-degree views, wander along the beach foreshore to café-hop along The Strand, explore the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium or dive into an underwater art museum. Get close to nature and head north to camp on Hinchinbrook Island. Or, for a greater adventure, catch a quick 20-minute ferry to discover the coral fringed sands and kaleidoscopic colours of the reef off Magnetic Island.

Where to stay

Whether you're planning an adventure-packed weekend, or extended vacation, there’s accommodation options to suit every traveller and budget in Townsville. If you’re craving a peaceful oasis just a short beat away from the heart of Townsville’s action, The Ville delivers. For a home away from home needed for extended stays, check into Mariners North Holiday Apartments or for a humble motel on the beach front, try Beach House Motel.

Where to eat 

Harnessing the freshest seafood and tropical produce, infused by the north’s relaxed atmosphere, Townsville’s encountered a serious foodie revolution. Experience Townsville’s finest flavours at local favourite, Donna Bionda, or take in City Lane’s mood lighting at Shaw & Co. Splurge on a seafood platter at The Pier, or dine with a sunset view at Longboard Bar & Grill.

Townsville WNBL Games

The Townsville WNBL games will be hosted at Townsville Stadium – Murray Lyons Cres, Annandale. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit  Townsville WNBL.

Experience Mackay

What to do

Famed for its unique encounters with wildlife, sub-tropical rainforest and beautiful beaches Mackay is a source of endless adventures. Set your sights on the stunning sunrise and share the sand with Kangaroos at Cape Hillsborough beach. Inland, take the scenic route to Pioneer Valley or the rock pools of Finch Hatton Gorge.   

Where to stay

Whether you wish to rest your head in a cabin under a rainforest canopy, or a historic hotel in the town centre, there’s something to suit everyone in Mackay. Convenience seekers can find it in town where historic hotels or apartments are nestled amongst the Art Deco streets of Mackay city. Or, if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, venture a little further afield to idyllic Cape Hillsborough, where camping and caravan spots join cabins and motels.

Where to eat 

Explore Mackay’s finest flavours, fuelled by the produce-rich region. There’s a bounty of quality feeds to be found, made a little sweeter by the regions surrounding sugarcane industry. From restored teahouses to country pubs, farmers markets to delicious cafes, amongst the treasure trove of historic buildings in Mackay central you’ll find a growing dining precinct.

Mackay WNBL Games
The Mackay WNBL games will be held at McDonald’s Mackay Multi-Sports Stadium, Mackay – 107 Juliet Street, South Mackay.

Experience Cairns & Great Barrier Reef

What to do

Welcome to Cairns, the gateway to a treasure trove of World Heritage sites, including the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.

A laid-back yet vibrant city, Cairns is a must-visit for nature-lovers. Hit the morning markets, learn about the local Indigenous culture through a guided tour, or visit sacred sites through Mossman Gorge. Take in the rolling hills of the Tablelands, swim in the bounty of waterfalls in the district, or drink in the view from a rooftop bar. Breathe in the salty air, and experience the unparalleled natural beauty of Cairns.

Where to stay

Cairns has no shortage when it comes to accommodation options, perfectly positioned by rainforest and reef. Offering everything from family-friendly camping spots and caravan parks, to sophisticated hotels and serviced apartments, you’ll find something for every budget in Cairns.

If convenience is key, stick to a hotel in the city centre. A little further afield, Palm Cove’s idyllic beach provides a refreshing collection of stylish resorts and a selection of delicious restaurants. Neighbouring Port Douglas sits an hour’s drive north, and boasts an equal bounty of tempting hotel offerings.

Where to eat 

In a region of unbelievable natural beauty, you can expect nothing less of the teeming restaurants and coffee houses serving up a true taste of the tropics. Whether you’re after fresh seafood, a luxurious long-lunch, or family-friendly dining, make the most of the fresh local produce within the tropics; they have it all.

Get into the tropical spirit with a visit to Prawn Star. The floating fresh seafood trawler perched in the Cairns Marina, merges quality cuisine with entertainment value. Foodies also flock to picturesque Palm Cove on Cairn’s outskirts to dine in some of the regions favourite beachside dining establishments, including adored Nu Nu Restaurant.

Cairns WNBL Games

The Cairns WNBL games will be played at Cairns Pop-Up Arena on Spence Street, Cairns City. For more information, visit Cairns WNBL.