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Townsville and Mackay are two cities in Queensland, Australia. Townsville is the largest settlement in North Queensland, with a population of 179,011 as of the 2021 census. Mackay, on the other hand, is a city located in the Mackay Region, Queensland. The distance between Mackay and Townsville is approximately 201 miles or 323 kilometers when travelling by air and 244 miles or 393 kilometers when driving. There are various ways to travel between the two cities, including by plane, train, bus, car, or boat. The quickest way to get from Mackay to Townsville takes 2.5 hours, while the cheapest way costs only $52.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Driving Distance | 243-244 miles or 386-393 kilometers |
| Flying Distance | 201 miles or 323 kilometers |
| Average Speed Travel Time | 3 hours 26 minutes |
| Cheapest Travel Option | $52 |
| Quickest Travel Option | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Airlie Beach Travel Time | 4 hours from Townsville, 2 hours from Mackay |
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What You'll Learn
Driving distance: 244 miles or 393 kilometres
The distance between Mackay and Townsville, two coastal cities in Queensland, Australia, is approximately 244 miles or 393 kilometres by road. This distance represents a fairly substantial journey within the Australian context, especially considering the diverse and changing landscapes one would encounter along the way. The trip offers a glimpse into the varied geography of Queensland, from its lush coastal stretches to its dry inland regions.
The drive from Mackay to Townsville is a scenic route that takes travellers through a mix of urban, rural, and coastal landscapes. The journey typically takes around 5 to 6 hours to complete, depending on traffic and driving speed. The road conditions along this route are generally good, with well-maintained highways and signage to ensure a comfortable drive.
The most direct route between the two cities is via the A1, also known as the Bruce Highway. This highway is the main coastal road in Queensland and provides a direct connection between Mackay and Townsville. The Bruce Highway offers a mix of single and dual carriageway sections, with occasional speed limits and traffic controls in place to ensure safety.
As you leave Mackay, the landscape is characterised by sugar cane fields and rural townships. The road then opens up to reveal the picturesque coastline, with glimpses of the Coral Sea and its pristine beaches. This stretch of the journey showcases the natural beauty of Queensland's tropical north, with opportunities to stop and explore small coastal towns and enjoy the region's famous seafood.
As you near Townsville, the landscape gradually transitions to reflect the city's proximity to the dry interior. The road passes through areas of bushland and open plains, with the occasional cattle station or farm adding to the rural charm. Finally, as Townsville comes into view, the road skirts the edge of the city, providing a glimpse of its urban landscape and the iconic Castle Hill overlooking the city centre.
The drive from Mackay to Townsville offers a diverse and captivating experience, showcasing the unique beauty and varied landscapes of Queensland, Australia.
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Flight time: 2 hours 32 minutes
The distance between Mackay and Townsville in Australia varies depending on the mode of transport. The flight time between the two cities is 2 hours and 32 minutes. Qantas operates two flights on this route daily. The aerial distance between Mackay and Townsville is 201 miles or 323 kilometres.
If you are planning to drive down this route, the distance between the two cities is 386 kilometres or 240 miles. At an average speed of 112 kilometres or 70 miles per hour, the travel time will be 3 hours and 26 minutes. The driving distance is 393 kilometres or 244 miles according to another estimate. Based on this, the driving time will be approximately 4 hours and 38 minutes.
There are several interesting stops along the route from Mackay to Townsville. Airlie Beach, located in the Whitsunday Region of Queensland, is a charming coastal town known as the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. The journey from Brisbane to Airlie Beach takes you through Queensland's diverse landscapes. Other popular stops include Billabong Sanctuary, Hamilton Island Marina, and The Forts.
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Train travel: 4 hours 47 minutes
Train travel from Mackay to Townsville in Australia is a great option for those who want to take in the local scenery. The train journey takes 4 hours and 47 minutes and is operated by Queensland Rail Travel, departing from Mackay Station and arriving at Townsville Station.
The distance between Mackay and Townsville is approximately 323 kilometres or 201 miles by car, and around 244 miles or 393 kilometres as the crow flies. The train journey is a great alternative to driving, allowing you to sit back and relax while enjoying the views.
Townsville, located on the north-eastern coast of Queensland, is a popular destination with plenty of attractions. The city boasts a population of 179,011 as of the 2021 census, making it the largest settlement in North Queensland. Along the way from Mackay to Townsville, there are several charming towns and natural wonders worth visiting. Airlie Beach, for example, is a beautiful coastal town known for its access to the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands. It is a great place to stop for a few hours, offering a relaxing atmosphere and stunning views.
Another popular stop is Hayman Island, a luxury resort destination with top-notch amenities, including pools, dining options, and a day spa. For those seeking an adventure, Magnetic Jet Ski Tours offer an exhilarating three-hour experience along the coastline of Magnetic Island and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Townsville itself also has plenty to offer, including the heritage-listed Queensland Building and the Riverway parkland attraction.
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Bus travel: 6 hours 30 minutes
The bus is the most affordable way to travel from Mackay to Townsville, Australia, with tickets costing between $30 and $116. The trip takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, with three daily departures from Townsville Station. Greyhound Australia operates this route, and its buses come with free WiFi, USB chargers, air-conditioning, reclining leather seats, and a restroom. The distance between the two cities is 201 miles (324 km), and you can expect to see beautiful scenic views along the way.
If you plan to take this bus trip, booking directly on the Greyhound Australia website is the easiest and cheapest option. You can also book your trip by contacting their customer service line, at ticket outlets or travel agencies, or directly with the bus driver. However, bookings made through the call centre, travel centres, or tickets purchased from the driver will incur a $5 booking fee.
To save money and secure the best seat, it's recommended to buy your ticket as early as possible. You can find the most up-to-date prices for your trip by using the booking form on the Greyhound Australia website or by calling their customer service team.
In Mackay, buses depart from Bus Stop, 30 Victoria St, Mackay QLD, and arrive in Townsville at the Sealink Terminal, 2 Sir Leslie Thiess Dr, Townsville QLD.
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Top stop: Airlie Beach
The distance between Mackay and Townsville, Australia is approximately 201 miles or 323 kilometres. The driving distance is about 240 miles or 386 kilometres. The trip from Mackay to Townsville can be made in a car, bus, train, or plane.
Airlie Beach is a charming coastal town located in the Whitsunday Region of Queensland, Australia. It is a popular stop for travellers journeying between Mackay and Townsville, about four hours from Townsville and two hours from Mackay. With a population of around 1,312 people, Airlie Beach offers access to the Great Barrier Reef and boasts beautiful beaches that attract vacationers.
Airlie Beach is known as the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, a collection of 74 tropical islands off the coast of Queensland. The town has excellent facilities, including large playgrounds, a huge double outdoor pool, and reasonably priced parking. The beaches in Airlie Beach are generally safe for swimming, but it is important to be cautious of jellyfish that frequent the northern waters during certain times of the year.
For those seeking adventure, Magnetic Jet Ski Tours offers an exhilarating three-hour experience along the stunning coastline of Magnetic Island and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Additionally, Big Mama Sailing provides personalised sailing experiences for small groups, with stunning sunset views of Townsville and Magnetic Island.
When driving from Townsville to Airlie Beach, one can take a slight detour to discover the beauty of Dingo Beach and Cape Gloucester, an undeveloped part of the coast with two beachside resorts. Montes Reef Resort offers a lively atmosphere, while Cape Gloucester Resort provides a quiet and private escape.
Airlie Beach is a must-visit destination when travelling between Mackay and Townsville, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation.
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Frequently asked questions
The driving distance between Mackay and Townsville is around 386 kilometres or 240 miles.
It takes approximately 4 hours and 38 minutes to drive between the two cities.
Townsville is a city on the north-eastern coast of Queensland, Australia, and has a population of 179,011 as of the 2021 census. Attractions include Riverway, a riverfront parkland attraction that stretches along 11 kilometres of the Ross River, and Billabong Sanctuary, an 11-hectare wildlife sanctuary located 17 kilometres south of Townsville.
Airlie Beach, located in the Whitsunday Region of Queensland, is a charming coastal town known as the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. Other popular stops include Whitehaven Beach, the Great Barrier Reef Aquarium, and Hayman Island, a luxury resort destination.
